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Why Vote in Kentucky as a new US Citizen?

Your Vote. Your Voice. Your Kentucky.

If you are a U.S. citizen living in Kentucky, you have the right to vote.

We’re here to help you register, check your status, make sure your address and information are current, and prepare for upcoming elections.

Important Links:

Important Dates

April 20 –– Last Day to Register to Vote in the Primary Election
May 5 –– Last Day to Request Absentee Ballot On-line
May 19 –– Primary Election
October 5 –– Last Day to Register to Vote in the General Election
October 20 –– Last Day to Request Absentee Ballot On-line
November 3 –– General Election

Early Voting –– Contact your local election office for information on early voting.

Am I Eligible to Vote in Kentucky?

You can vote in Kentucky if you:

  • Are a U.S. citizen
  • Are a Kentucky resident for at least 28 days before Election Day
  • Are 18 years old by Election Day
  • Have not had voting rights revoked due to certain felony convictions (rights may be restored)

Important: If you are not yet a U.S. citizen, you must wait until after your naturalization ceremony to register to vote.

Register to Vote in Kentucky

You must register at least 28 days before an election. You will need your Social Security Number. Registration is free. Party affiliation is required to vote in Kentucky primaries.

You can register:

via the Kentucky State Board of Elections

Already Registered to Vote?

Here's what to do next:

1. Check Your Status

Make sure:

  • Your name and address are correct
  • Your party affiliation is correct
  • Your registration is active

2. Find Your Polling Location

Your voting location is based on your home address.

You can:

  • Vote early (Thursday–Saturday before Election Day)
  • Vote on Election Day
  • Request an absentee ballot (if eligible). Check eligibility here.

3. Get your friends

Early Voting & Absentee Voting

Early Voting: Contact your local election office for information on early voting.

Absentee Voting:
You may qualify if you:

  • Are over 65
  • Have a disability
  • Will be out of the county on Election Day
  • Are a military voter

Why Voting Matters:

Voting is one of the most powerful ways to fully participate in the democracy naturalized new Americans have chosen to join.

Becoming a U.S. citizen is a meaningful commitment, and voting is how new Americans make their voices heard on issues that affect their families, communities, and future.

By casting a ballot, naturalized citizens help shape policies, hold leaders accountable, and strengthen a democracy that reflects the diverse experiences and contributions of all Americans.

NAI Is Here to Help

  • We provide nonpartisan support for eligible voters.
  • We provide language support before you vote
  • We do not tell anyone who to vote for.
  • We do not influence how anyone votes.
  • We are here to support informed civic participation.
  • If you have questions before or after Election Day, contact us.

Election Protection Hotlines
English 866-OUR-VOTE/ 866-687-8683
Spanish/English 888-VE-Y-VOTA/ 888-839-8682
Asian Languages/English 888-API-VOTE/ 888-274-8683
Arabic/English 844-YALLA-US/ 844-925-5287

* The national, nonpartisan Election Protection coalition works year-round to ensure that all voters have an equal opportunity to vote and have that vote count. www.866ourvote.org

Know Your Rights at the Polls

Voting Is Your Right as a U.S. Citizen. If you are registered and eligible to vote in Kentucky, you have important legal protections when you go to the polls.

You Have the Right to Vote If You Are in Line

If you are in line when the polls close, you still have the right to vote.

Do not leave the line.

You Have the Right to a Private Ballot.

You Have the Right to Language Assistance.

You Have the Right to Show Acceptable ID.

Kentucky requires photo ID. If you do not have one, you may still be able to vote by signing a “Reasonable Impediment Declaration.” Poll workers must explain your options.

You Have the Right to Be Free from Intimidation.

You Have the Right to a Provisional Ballot.

You Have the Right to Language Assistance

Federal law protects your right to get help voting if you are more comfortable in a language other than English.

Federal Protections
Under the Voting Rights Act of 1965 (Section 203), certain counties across the United States must provide translated voting materials, bilingual ballots and language assistance at polling places. These protections apply in areas where there are significant numbers of citizens who speak languages other than English.

Kentucky-Specific Language Access
Kentucky is not currently designated statewide under Section 203 for mandatory translated ballots, but voters still have rights to assistance under federal law and may request assistance at polling locations if they

  • Need help reading the ballot
  • Need assistance understanding instructions
  • Have limited English proficiency