To be eligible to vote you must be:
- A U.S. citizen
- 18 years or older before the date of the election
- A resident of Tennessee (The residence of a person is the place where the person's habitation is fixed and is where, during the periods of absence, the person definitely intends to return.)
- Not disqualified under the law
Incarcerated Voters & Returning Citizens:
In Tennessee, you lose your right to vote if you were convicted of certain felonies on or before certain dates. Your ability to restore your rights also depends on the crime you were convicted of and the date of your conviction. For more information, please review your state’s guide on restoration of voting rights. Pretrial detention and misdemeanors do not restrict your voting rights.
Voters without traditional residence:
In Tennessee, individuals do not need to reside in a traditional building to register to vote. Those experiencing homelessness may describe their usual or preferred location where they stay or return to for the Election Commission to be able to assign the appropriate voting precinct. However, a valid mailing address is required. Voters may utilize the address of a shelter, a family member, or a friend that agrees to receive the mail. If the voter registration card is returned as undeliverable to the election commission, the voter will be mailed a confirmation notice and placed on inactive status.