Iowa Secretary of State Paul Pate announced the date for the 2024 Statewide High School Voter Registration Day, February 13. On this day, Iowa high school students are encouraged to take steps to register to vote, make a plan to vote when they are eligible, and learn more about Iowa’s voting process.
“Of course, voting is one of the best ways to make your voice heard, and registering to vote is the first step in that process,” said Secretary Pate. “We find that often when young people are educated about the election process, they are more comfortable in participating in Iowa’s elections when they are eligible.”
There are currently more than 4,500+ 17-year-olds already registered to vote in Iowa. This number is significantly higher than 3,400+ 17-year-olds registered to vote in September 2023 in the weeks leading up to 2023 National Voter Registration Day.
Iowa law allows 17-year-olds to register to vote and participate in Primary Elections if they turn 18 prior to or on the day of the General Election.
With this statewide day of action, Secretary Pate is encouraging high schools in all 99 counties to host a voter registration drive and educate students on the voter registration and participation process. Iowa law requires high schools to conduct two voter registration drives every school year.
“Exercising your right to vote is a powerful way to help shape the world we share,” said Iowa Department of Education Director McKenzie Snow. “High School Voter Registration Day is an outstanding opportunity to learn more about the electoral process while taking the first step to fulfill your critical responsibility as engaged citizens.”
Currently, 2.2 million Iowans are registered to vote. Iowa has some of the best voter registration and participation rates in the nation and is ranked in the top three nationally for election administration.
To check your voter registration status, register to vote or update your information, visit VoterReady.Iowa.gov.
