Take Action: August 2025

Washington State: Voting & Registration — What You Need to Know

How to Register (or Update Your Registration)

Washington provides multiple convenient ways to register:

• Online: Use the Washington Secretary of State’s website. You’ll need a current WA driver’s license/permit, WA ID card, or the last four digits of your Social Security number. Online or mail registrations must be received at least 8 days before the election to count for that election. WA Secretary of State
• By Mail: Download and fill out the paper form, then send it to your county elections office. It must also be received at least 8 days before Election Day. WA Secretary of State
• In Person: Visit your county elections office. You can register or update your registration in person until 8 p.m. on Election Day itself. WA Secretary of StatePolitical Lawn Signs

In short:

• Online or by mail: Received 8 days before the election (e.g., if Election Day is November 4, registrations must arrive by October 27).
• In-person: Up until 8 p.m. on Election Day.

Upcoming 2025 Election Deadlines

Here’s what’s on the horizon:

• November 4, 2025 – General Election Day (18-day voting period begins October 17).
  • Online/mail registration deadline: October 27.
  • In-person registration allowed until 8 p.m. on November 4. Political Lawn Signswww2.sos.wa.gov

Washington also allows same-day registration—meaning eligible citizens can register or update their registration on Election Day in person. Thurston CountyFair Elections Center

National Voter Registration Day 2025

This national civic holiday is focused on encouraging voter registration—even for those unsure of their status.

• Date for 2025: Tuesday, September 16, 2025. National Voter Registration DayAmerican Library AssociationNonprofit VOTEWikipedia
• Organized by Nonprofit VOTE, supported by partners like the American Library Association. American Library AssociationNonprofit VOTENational Voter Registration Day
• What it means for Washingtonians:
  • Many libraries and community organizations host in-person voter registration drives that day.
  • It’s an excellent opportunity to register, double-check registration status, or update your information—especially before the general election deadlines.

Next Steps: What You Can Do Now

1. Mark your calendar:
   • October 27, 2025 – Last day to register online/mail for the general election.
   • November 4, 2025 – Last day for in-person registration & General Election Day.
2. Plan your method:
   • Want to register comfortably from home? Use the online option before mail deadline.
   • Prefer face-to-face help? Visit your county elections office or local events around National Voter Registration Day.
3. Take advantage of NVRD events on September 16—great for outreach and support, especially if it’s your first time or you need to update.