Who can ask for their voter registration information to be kept private?

You can ask to have your voter registration information confidential if: 

  • You are a victim of domestic violence who was physically or emotionally injured, or there was a substantial risk of injury, and the person who hurt you was a family or household member.
  • You are a victim of a sexual crime. 

I am not registered to vote and I am afraid to register because I do not want my abuser to find me. How can I still exercise my right to vote?

You can register to vote by mail or online. And as a victim of domestic violence or sexual violence, you have the right to ask that your registration information be kept confidential.

First, prepare and sign a written statement saying that:

  • You are a victim of domestic violence or a a victim of a sexual crime, and
  • Because of the threat of physical or emotional harm to you, your family, or household members, you want to keep your registration record confidential.

Next, take or mail this statement to your County Board of Elections. Complete your voter registration, and then confirm that they will keep your voter registration record confidential and not available to the public.

Your processed application lasts for four years. After it expires, you may re-apply.

Was this information helpful?

Last Reviewed: April 21, 2023