Register to Vote

Eligible voters can register to vote by completing and submitting a Voter Registration Application at least 21 days before an election, or they can register at the polling place when they vote.

When to register

Voters should register to vote or update their registration when any of the following occur:

Upon turning 18 years old
Name changes
Address changes

Voting eligibility

To register and vote in Minnesota, you must be:

A U.S. citizen
At least 18 years old on Election Day
A resident of Minnesota for 20 days
Not currently incarcerated for a felony conviction
Not under a court order that revokes your right to vote

Voters without a street address (including those experiencing homelessness) can still register. You must describe where you stay, such as nearby cross streets or landmarks, and provide a mailing address for election information.

Check to see if you’re registered

Go to MNvotes.org to find out if you are registered to vote at your current address.

Pre-registration

Voter registration applications must be received 21 days before an election. Applications may be delivered online or in person to the Dakota County Elections Office in Hastings. If you miss the deadline, you can register at your polling place when you vote.

Online registration

Withhold voter information

To withhold your voter information from the public information list, complete the Request to Withhold Voter Information from Public Information List.

Register at the polls

Visit MNvotes.org for registration requirements and a list of documents you can use as proof of residence on election day.

When names are removed from the voter registration list

Voters are removed from the voter registration list for the following reasons:

Voter has died
Voter has moved out of Dakota County
Voter is incarcerated for the conviction of a felony
Voter request
Voter is under a court order that revokes their right to vote

If a voter didn't vote in two consecutive general elections, they will receive a notice that their name will be removed from the active voter file unless they reply to the notice.

Questions?

For questions on voter registration, contact Dakota County Elections at elections@co.dakota.mn.us.

Last updated: 12/9/2025 12:55 PM