Voting at 18 in Michigan: Your Rights Explained

18-Year-Olds Can Vote in Every Michigan Election

In Michigan, any U.S. citizen aged 18 or older who is registered to vote can cast a ballot in all elections—including presidential, congressional, state, and local races.

Key Facts

• 26th Amendment (1971): Guarantees voting rights at 18 nationwide.
• Michigan Constitution Art. II, §1: Confirms 18 as voting age.
• Registration: Online (Michigan.gov/Vote), by mail, at SOS offices, clerk's offices, agencies. Deadline: 15 days before election (online/mail); same-day in-person at clerk's office through Election Day.
• No Special Restrictions: Felony conviction only bars voting while incarcerated. Rights auto-restored upon release.
• Primary Elections: 17-year-olds can vote in primaries if they turn 18 by the general election (Michigan law).

How to Register

1. Visit Michigan.gov/Vote.
2. Enter driver's license/state ID + last 4 SSN.
3. Confirm address, party preference (optional).
4. Receive voter ID card.

Voting Options

• Absentee: No-excuse, any voter. Request online/mail/in-person.
• Early In-Person: At clerk's office 40 days before election.
• Election Day: Polls 7 AM–8 PM.

Resources

• MI Bureau of Elections: (888) SOS-MICH (767-6424)
• League of Women Voters MI
• Campus Vote Project (students)