17-Year-Olds Can Register to Vote

In New Jersey you can now vote in primary elections, provided you will turn 18 by the date of the next general election. 

This change is part of the New Voter Empowerment Act, which was signed into law in 2024 and officially took effect on January 1, 2026. 

Previously,  you had to wait until their 18th birthday to cast any ballot.

You can register to vote as early as 17 years old, even if you will not be 18 by the next election day. Your registration is accepted, but you are marked as "temporarily ineligible" in the statewide system until you are legally able to vote either in next the primary or the general election depending on your birthdate. Once eligible, your registration status automatically becomes active, allowing you to vote in any subsequent elections.

New Jersey allows you to register either online  or in-person, vote by mail or in a polling place. You are able to track the status of your ballot online or by email!

Additionally,  the Motor Vehicle Commission has made it easier for 17-year-olds, and everyone else, to register to vote or update their voting information when obtaining or renewing licenses.  You can indicate if you would like to register and provide an electronic signature using a touch screen computer.