How to register to vote in Illinois

By NPR staff
  •   Last revised Tuesday, July 14, 2026

Key links

General information Check voter registration status Register online Change registration

Deadlines for March 17 primary election

Online Register by Sunday, March 1
By mail Postmarked by Tuesday, Feb. 17
In person Register by Tuesday, March 17
During the "grace period" after the registration deadline, eligible voters can register at local election offices through Election Day.

Deadlines for Nov. 3 general election

Online Register by Sunday, Oct. 18
By mail Postmarked by Tuesday, Oct. 6
In person Register by Tuesday, Nov. 3
During the "grace period" after the registration deadline, eligible voters can register at local election offices and certain polling places through Election Day. More information here.

Last updated July 14, 2026. Military and overseas citizen voters may have different registration deadlines.