New Washington Residents

Welcome to Washington! As a new resident of Washington State, you can register to vote online with VoteWA, by mail, in person, or when you get your new state driver license or ID at the Department of Licensing.

You may not vote in multiple states. Be sure to cancel any previous voter registration before you register in Washington. You do not have to declare a party affiliation when you register or vote in Washington. Learn about party affiliations.

Top 2 Primary

Almost all other states in the country conduct nominating Primary Elections. In these states, the purpose of the Primary is to select each political party’s nominee who will represent the party in the General Election.

In Washington’s Top 2 Primary, the purpose is to narrow the number of candidates down to two, regardless of a candidate’s party preference. Learn about the top 2 primaries.

Voting by Mail

Washington State votes by mail. Mail elections are an alternative to polling place voting. Prior to each election, a ballot is mailed to every eligible registered voter. Learn about mail-in registrations.

Being an Informed Voter

Washington has many ways to help voters become informed about ballot measures and candidates:

• The state General Election Voters’ Pamphlet is mailed to every household in Washington. If you need the General Election Voters’ Pamphlet in accessible formats or alternate languages, call 800-448-4881 or email the Voter’s Pamphlet.
• For personalized ballot measure and candidate information online, go to VoteWA.
• For all ballot measures and candidates, visit the Online Voters’ Guide.
• For local races, visit the website for your county elections department.