Oregon voting FAQ

In 2024, votes will be cast on issues and races that will set America’s direction for the coming years. The USA TODAY Network has everything you need to know to make the best choices for yourself and your family at the ballot box.

How do I register to vote?

In Oregon, you must be a resident of the state, a United States citizen, and at least 16 years old to register to vote. Those under the age of 18 won't receive a ballot until an election occurs on or after their 18th birthday.

You can register to vote online as long as you have a state driver's license, permit or ID issued by the Oregon Driver & Motor Vehicle Services. Even without those, you can still register online. After entering your information, you will need to print and sign the voter registration card and deliver it to a county elections office.

The deadline to register for the May 21 Oregon primary election is 11:59 p.m. April 30. It's Oct. 15 for the November general election. Visit the Secretary of State website for more information or to register.

When are elections taking place this year?

The next statewide election takes place on May 21 when Oregonians will choose candidates who will move on to the Nov. 5 general election. For nonpartisan races such as mayor and city council seats, the winner is often decided in the primary election.

What key races are on the ballot this year?

In addition to a U.S. presidential election, Oregonians will vote on three of Oregon's top statewide offices: secretary of state, treasurer, and attorney general. Oregonians also will choose their members of the U.S. House of Representatives.

Half of the Oregon Senate seats for the Legislature will be on the ballot although not every race is competitive. Candidates also are vying for 60 seats in the Oregon House.

What do I need to know about absentee voting?

If you're going to be out of Oregon during the election, you can request a ballot from a county elections office. You'll need to fill out an absentee request form ahead of time. Absentee ballots are available 45 days before an election.

What are the deadlines for absentee voting?

The Secretary of State's office is required to mail absentee or replacement ballots to voters up until five days before Election Day. Ballots that are mailed have to be postmarked by May 21. If you are dropping off your ballot at a drop box location, it must be received by 8 p.m. May 21.

What about early voting?

Oregon will begin mailing primary election ballots to all registered voters in Oregon on May 1 and on Oct. 16 for the Nov. 5 general election.

Mailed ballots must be postmarked by the date of the election.

Ballot drop sites should open 20 days before election day through 8 p.m. Election Day. Locations of ballot drop off sites near you should be available on the Secretary of State's website, also 20 days before Election Day.