Voter Registration & Civic Power
How to register, vote, and make your voice count
Voting is one of the most direct ways to shape the city, state, and country you live in. In Philadelphia — a city where local elections are decided by small margins — your vote genuinely matters.
Practical next steps
Know the eligibility requirements
To vote in Pennsylvania: US citizen, PA resident for 30 days before the election, at least 18 years old on Election Day, not currently incarcerated for a felony.
Pre-register at 17
Pennsylvania allows pre-registration starting at 17, as long as you'll be 18 by the next general election.
Register online in 2 minutes
Register at vote.pa.gov. You'll need a PA driver's license, state ID, or the last four digits of your SSN.
Know the registration deadline
You must register at least 15 days before the election. Set a phone reminder 20 days before any election.
Understand primary vs. general election
Pennsylvania has a closed primary — only registered party members can vote in party primaries. All registered voters vote in general elections.
Know your voting options
(1) In-person on Election Day. (2) Vote-by-mail — request a ballot up to 7 days before. Track your ballot online.
Local elections matter most
City Council, District Attorney, judges, school board, and mayor are elected locally — and directly affect your daily life. Local elections have low turnout, making each vote far more impactful.
Resource starting points
- PA Voter Registration Portal
Register, update your registration, request a mail ballot.
Organizations featured in this guide
- Philadelphia City Commissioners
Official city elections office — find your polling place, register, request a mail ballot, and get Philadelphia-specific voting info.
- League of Women Voters Philadelphia
Nonpartisan voter registration and civic education organization serving Philadelphia.
- Philadelphia Student Union
Youth-led voter registration drives and civic engagement programs in Philadelphia high schools.
Helpful things to know
Register right now at vote.pa.gov
Takes 2 minutes. If you're 17 and will be 18 by next November, you can pre-register today.
Vote-by-mail is easy
Request your ballot at vote.pa.gov up to 7 days before election day.
Common questions
Can I vote if I have a felony conviction?
In Pennsylvania, you regain voting rights upon release from incarceration — even while on parole or probation.
Can I vote if I'm unhoused?
Yes. Unhoused voters can register using the address of a shelter or the area where they regularly sleep.