Take Action
Host a Voter Registration Drive at Your School
You don't have to wait until you're 18 to make a difference. Organizing a registration drive at your school is one of the most impactful things a young person can do for democracy.
Why schools? High schools and college campuses are where millions of first-time voters are. A single registration drive can register dozens of new voters in one afternoon — people who might never have gotten around to it on their own.
How to Plan Your Drive — Step by Step
Get permission from your school
Talk to a teacher, student government advisor, or principal. Frame it as a nonpartisan civic education event — you're not promoting any candidate or party, just helping eligible students register. Most schools are supportive.
Tip: Bring a written proposal. It shows you're serious and makes approval easier.
Pick the right date and location
Choose a high-traffic spot — the cafeteria, a hallway near the gym, or outside during lunch. Aim for a date at least 6 weeks before a major election to give students time to register before deadlines.
Tip: Lunch periods and after-school hours get the most foot traffic.
Recruit a small team
You don't need a big group — 3 to 5 volunteers is plenty. Reach out to student government, a civics or social studies class, or clubs that focus on community service.
Tip: Ask a teacher to offer extra credit for participation — it helps with turnout.
Get your materials
Contact your state or county election office — many provide free voter registration forms, pens, and informational flyers for registration drives. Organizations like Rock the Vote and Campus Vote Project also offer free toolkits.
Tip: Print a QR code linking to your state's online registration portal for students who prefer digital.
Promote it in advance
Announce the drive in class, post on school social media, and hang flyers in hallways. The more people know about it ahead of time, the better your turnout will be.
Tip: A simple message works: "Are you 18 or turning 18 this year? Register to vote in 5 minutes at lunch on [date]."
Run the drive — keep it simple
Set up a table with forms, pens, and a clear sign. Greet people as they walk by. Your job is to answer basic questions and help students fill out forms — not to tell them who to vote for. Keep it friendly and low-pressure.
Tip: Have the State Resources page pulled up on a phone or laptop so you can look up state-specific rules on the spot.
Free Resources for Student Organizers
Ready to make an impact?
Check your state's registration rules and deadlines before your drive so you're prepared to answer every question.