The 2026 midterm ballot is set, but unregistered residents of New York and New Jersey will be left out unless they act now.
Key points
- Online registration is available in NY (NY.gov ID required) and NJ (date of birth plus ID or SSN).
- Mail or in‑person registration remains an option; forms and locations are listed on each state’s election website.
- Deadlines for the 2026 midterms were Oct. 24 (NY) and Oct. 13 (NJ); voters should verify status before the deadline.
New Yorkers and New Jerseyans will head to the polls on Tuesday for the 2026 midterm elections, and the state election officials stress that only registered voters can cast a ballot. The CBS News guide outlines the steps needed to register before the respective state deadlines.
In New York, eligible residents can file an online registration using the state’s portal, provided they have an NY.gov ID. New Jersey voters can register online at voter.svrs.nj.gov/register by entering their birthdate and either a valid driver’s license, a non‑driver ID, or a Social Security number.
Online registration options
Those who prefer paper forms can request a New York registration packet online or by calling 1‑800‑367‑8683, then mail or deliver the signed form to their county board of elections. In New Jersey, a downloadable form is available on the state website; completed forms should be sent to the county commissioner of registration or superintendent of elections. In‑person registration is also possible at county boards, DMV locations, or other designated state agencies in both states.
Eligibility requirements are the same in both states: U.S. citizenship, residency in the county for at least 30 days before the election, and no felony conviction that results in loss of voting rights. New York bars individuals adjudged mentally incompetent, while both states allow pre‑registration at age 16‑17 (NY) or 17 (NJ) but voting only after turning 18.
Mail and in‑person registration procedures
Voters can verify their registration status online—New York via voterlookup.elections.ny.gov and New Jersey via voter.svrs.nj.gov/registration-check. The registration deadline for the 2026 midterms was Oct. 24 in New York and Oct. 13 in New Jersey; New Jersey’s deadline is always 21 days before Election Day.
Both states require the applicant’s full name, birthdate, residential address, and a driver’s license number, non‑driver ID number, or Social Security number. The CBS News article provides direct links to the registration portals and forms for reference.
Reader questions
Can I register to vote online in New York without an NY.gov ID?
According to the CBS News guide, an NY.gov ID is required to use New York’s online voter registration portal.
What is the deadline to register for the 2026 midterm elections in New Jersey?
The deadline was Oct. 13, 2026, which is 21 days before Election Day, as noted by the source.
Am I eligible to register if I have a felony conviction?
Both New York and New Jersey state that individuals currently incarcerated for a felony conviction are not eligible to vote.
Source: cbsnews.com
