Are You Election Ready?
Review Our Voter Info
Voting, especially the first time, can feel overwhelming, but we're here to help! The below guide walks you through everything you need to know—from registering to casting your ballot—so you can vote with confidence.
Whether you're voting by mail or in person, we've got clear, step-by-step instructions to make the process easy. We've also included voter resources at the bottom of this page.
Please note that all registered California voters will receive a ballot in the mail, and you may return your ballot by mail, or vote in person.
If you have additional questions, feel free to check out our Voter FAQs, or email us at the LWV of Alameda. Let's get you ready to make your voice heard in California elections!
Step 1: Register to Vote in CA
✅ Check your California Voter Status.
✅ Register or update your information online. (Changed your name, political party, or permanent address? You must re-register.)
✅ Pre-register to vote if you're aged 16 or 17!
✅ Missed deadline? Use Same-Day Registry.
Step 2: Inform Your Vote
✅ Know what's on your ballot: use Vote411.org and our Easy Voter Guide.
✅ Read our Pros & Cons: get unbiased insights on ballot measures and propositions from the League.
✅ Attend our Candidate & Ballot Forums: view our event calendar here.
✅ Review our recommendations: see our advocacy for ballot measures and propositions.
Step 3: Vote by Mail Option
✅ Follow all ballot directions. If you make a marking error, contact your County Elections Office.
✅ Sign, date, and address your return envelope.
✅ Return via mail and postmarked by Election Day or to an official election location by 8pm on Election Day.
✅ Track your ballot to confirm it was received and counted.
Step 3: Vote in Person Option
✅ You can find your polling place or a vote center at Vote411.org.
✅ Bring notes to speed the process. (Use Vote411.org to print out your choices.)
✅ First-time voters may need to bring ID.
✅ Know your California voter rights before you head to the polls!
Voter Resources
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The Secretary of State's Elections website allows you to pre-register (aged 16 & 17), register, or re-register online to vote, and learn about voter deadlines, political parties, voting overseas, etc.
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The Alameda County Registrar of Voters (ROV) is the county elections office for Alameda County. On their website, voters can find early voting hours at the ROV, see election results, and more. You can also call them at 1 (510) 272-6973.
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Vote411.org is a "one-stop-shop" for election related information by the League of Women Voters. It provides nonpartisan information to the public with both general and state-specific info on the multiple aspects of the election process. Go to Vote411 and enter your address to find your ballot and polling place. It's that easy!
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The Easy Voter Guide is a short pamphlet by the League of Women Voters for new and busy voters. Its aim is to make nonpartisan information about the ballot accessible to as many Californians as possible. Find helpful information about ballot measures, propositions, and candidates here.