AUSTIN — New voters have until Tuesday, October 11 to register to vote so they are eligible to cast a ballot in the November 8 midterm election. 

Additionally, all Texans should take time now to double-check their voter registration so any wrong information can be corrected or updated before Tuesday’s deadline to register, said Anthony Gutierrez, executive director for Common Cause Texas. 

“Our democracy works best when we all are heard at the ballot box,” Gutierrez said. 
“Encourage your loved ones, friends, colleagues, and neighbors to spend a few minutes ensuring they will be able to make their voices heard at the ballot box on November 8th.” 

Texas makes it harder to register to vote than nearly every other state in the country. We are one of only a handful of states that does not offer online voter registration. The 30-day window between the voter registration deadline and Election Day is among the longest in the deadline, preventing Texans who don’t tune in until close to the election from registering. Texas also doesn’t have same-day registration, unlike 21 other states which allow eligible voters to register to vote and cast a ballot during the early voting period or on Election Day.

“Our states antiquated voter registration process keeps far too many Texans from exercising their right to vote,” Gutierrez said. “It’s past time for Texas to make it easier, and not harder, for people to vote.” 

Anyone with questions or who encounters problems trying to vote can call or text the nonpartisan Election Protection Hotline at 866-OUR-VOTE (866-687-8683).

Other important election-related dates for voters: 

• Now – Oct. 28: Voters can request absentee or vote-by-mail ballots (Voters must fill out a request form and deliver or mail in to their county elections office.)  
• Oct. 24 – Nov. 4: Early voting period 
• Nov. 8, Election Day: Final day to vote in Texas’ federal and state elections