MD

Maryland Voter Registration Guide

Current voter registration requirements, birth certificate ordering information, voter ID rules, deadlines, and official election office links for Maryland.

No proof-of-citizenship requirementID in some casesChecked Jul 27, 2026 · re-check due
Interactive map of the United States showing proof-of-citizenship law status by state
Active Proof-of-Citizenship Law
Law on Books (Not Enforced)
No Requirement
Voter ID Requirement
Maryland does not impose a universal poll-ID rule; same-day registrants at early voting or Election Day must bring proof of residence, and some voters may be asked to show ID based on registration status
Online Registration
Available
Registration Deadline
Advanced registration deadline is approximately 3 weeks before Election Day (for 2026 primary, June 2, 2026); voters can also register during early voting or on Election Day at assigned polling place with proof of residence
Proof of Citizenship Law
No proof-of-citizenship requirement
Status detailsNo active statewide documentary proof-of-citizenship voter-registration requirement as of July 2026.

What to Do Now

  1. 1Check if you have one of the accepted documents (passport, birth certificate, naturalization certificate)
  2. 2If your name has changed, get a passport in your current legal name
  3. 3Order your birth certificate now if you don't have one
  4. 4Verify your voter registration is current
  5. 5Keep originals safe — under the SAVE Act, photocopies would not be accepted

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need proof of citizenship to register to vote in Maryland?

No. Maryland does not currently require documentary proof of citizenship to register to vote. However, if the federal SAVE Act passes, all states would be required to collect proof of citizenship for voter registration. Getting your documents in order now is recommended.

How much does a birth certificate cost in Maryland?

A certified birth certificate in Maryland costs $10.00 birth certificate fee (plus $13.00 internet processing fee for online orders and optional $20.00 expedited-shipping fee for internet orders). Processing times vary — check the state vital records office for current turnaround. Use the official Maryland vital records office for current details: https://health.maryland.gov/vsa/pages/birth.aspx. Remember: you must order from the state where you were born, not where you currently live.

What voter ID do I need in Maryland?

Maryland's voter ID rules: Maryland does not impose a universal poll-ID rule; same-day registrants at early voting or Election Day must bring proof of residence, and some voters may be asked to show ID based on registration status. Check with your local election office or visit the Maryland Secretary of State website for specific details on acceptable forms of identification.

Can I register to vote online in Maryland?

Yes, Maryland offers online voter registration. Visit your state's election office website to register or update your registration. Registration deadline: Advanced registration deadline is approximately 3 weeks before Election Day (for 2026 primary, June 2, 2026); voters can also register during early voting or on Election Day at assigned polling place with proof of residence.