You can check your voter registration status, update your address or name, or register to vote online in just a few minutes.
To register in Maryland, you must:
- Be a U.S. citizen
- Be a Maryland resident
- Be at least 16 years old (you must be 18 to vote)
If your information has changed, such as your address or name, you should update your registration as soon as possible.
Maryland also allows same-day registration during early voting and on Election Day. You will need to bring proof of where you live.
Voting for the first time does not have to feel confusing.
This guide will walk you through exactly what you need to do and what to expect, step by step.
If you are new to voting, start here to learn how to prepare, what your options are, and what will happen when you go to vote.
Before you vote, it is important to understand how elections work in Maryland so there are no surprises.
Primary Elections
Primary elections are used to choose each party’s candidates. In Maryland, these are party-based elections.
- You must be registered with a political party to vote in that party’s primary
- If you are registered as unaffiliated (independent), you generally cannot vote in primary elections
General Elections
General elections decide who will hold office. All registered voters can participate, including unaffiliated voters.
Ways You Can Vote:
- In person on Election Day
- During early voting
- By mail
Understanding your registration status and your voting options ahead of time helps you avoid issues and ensures your vote counts.
Local elections shape your day-to-day life—whether you realize it or not.
In Calvert County, the officials you vote for help make decisions about:
- Public schools and education
- Community safety and emergency services
- Taxes and how county funds are spent
- Roads, development, and local growth
- Parks, programs, and community services
These decisions affect your daily life, your family, and your future.
Understanding what is on your ballot and who is running helps you make informed choices when you vote.
For the most accurate and up-to-date information about local elections, including candidates, polling locations, and deadlines, use official sources.