News Release
For Immediate Release:
July 23, 2013
For More Information:
Justin Riemer: 804-864-8904
Justin.Riemer@sbe.virginia.gov
RICHMOND, VA –Today, the State Board of Elections (SBE), in partnership with the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), launch online voter registration as a result of recently enacted legislation sponsored by Delegate David Ramadan (HB2341). Eligible citizens of the Commonwealth will now be able to submit a voter registration application or update their registration information online.
In order to complete the application process online, citizens must provide their Virginia DMV customer identifier number, which is displayed on DMV issued identification cards or Driver’s Licenses. Citizens who do not have a Virginia DMV customer identifier may still fill out the registration application online, but will be required to print and return the completed application to the appropriate local voter registration office.
All voter registration application submissions are subject to review and approval by the appropriate local general registrar. Citizens will be notified directly via mail by the local voter registration office once an application has been processed. Voters will also be mailed a new or updated voter registration card once the appropriate general registrar accepts the application or update.
The sponsor of this legislation, Delegate Ramadan, remarked: “The launch of online voter registration will enable eligible citizens to apply to register to vote and to update their registration information online, 365 days a year, 24 hours a day, regardless of where military service, family or professional obligations may require them to be. I am proud to have sponsored this legislation to assist Virginians to more conveniently participate in elections. Online registration is secure and enhances the integrity of Virginia’s voter rolls; further, it saves costs and increases efficiency and access.”
Secretary Don Palmer stated: “Electronic online registration with verification of identification and data by the DMV will increase the accuracy and integrity of the voter rolls and assist state and local officials. More accurate registration rolls will ultimately lead to fewer problems and lines on election day as voters will have updated and accurate records when they arrive at the polling place to vote.”
SBE encourages all eligible citizens to participate in this new method of applying to register to vote or update voter registration information. Additional information is available at SBE’s website: www.SBE.Virginia.gov.