Automatic Voter Registration

If you are a Massachusetts citizen doing certain things at the Registry of Motor Vehicles, MassHealth, and the Commonwealth Health Connector, you will automatically become registered to vote. You can opt-out of registration.

You will automatically be registered to vote when you:

• Apply for or renew a driver's license
• Apply for or renew a learner's permit
• Apply for or renew a state ID
• Apply for MassHealth benefits online, in person, or by phone
• Apply for health insurance through the Commonwealth Health Connector

If you do not wish to be registered to vote, or you do not wish to be registered at the address you use with the RMV, MassHealth, or the Health Connector, you may opt out of registering.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I still need to register to vote?

You should still register to vote every time you move. You will only be automatically registered if you perform specific actions at the RMV, MassHealth, or the Health Connector and you haven’t already updated your voter registration.

If you are not registered to vote at your current address, you should submit a voter registration form. You can do this online, by by mail, or in person.

How does automatic voter registration work?

If the RMV, MassHealth, or the Health Connector determines that you are a United States citizen, they will send your information to the election office. When your election office receives your name, address, and date of birth, they will add you to the voter list. They will send a notice confirming your registration in 2-3 weeks.

How do I opt out?

You will be asked on your application if you do not want to register to vote. You may opt out of registering to vote at that time.

If I don't opt out and I am already registered to vote, will I be registered twice?

No. If you are already registered to vote at your current address, nothing will change. If you are registered to vote at a different address in Massachusetts, your address will be updated with your new registration.

What if I am not the one completing my health insurance application?

You will not be registered to vote. Automatic voter registration does not apply to applications completed for someone else. If you are applying for a family, only the person who signs the form will be registered to vote.

What if I move?

If you are re-applying for health insurance or a driver's license when you update your address, you will be automatically registered to vote at your new address if you do not opt out. If you are merely updating your address, you should submit a new voter registration form when you move. You can update your address for voter registration purposes online.

How do I join a political party?

If you are already registered to vote in Massachusetts, this will not change your party affiliation.

If you are not already registered to vote in Massachusetts, you will automatically be registered as Unenrolled (commonly referred to as "Independent"). You can choose a party when you receive confirmation of your voter registration.

What if I am not a U.S. citizen?

You will not be registered to vote.