Ohio Voters Must Register by April 6 for 2025 Primary Election
Ohio voters face an April 6 deadline to register for the state’s May 6 primary election featuring local races and ballot measures.
COLUMBUS, OHIO — Ohio residents have until April 6 to register to vote in the state’s 2025 primary election, with Secretary of State Frank LaRose urging eligible citizens to complete their voter registration ahead of the deadline.
The registration cutoff is 30 days before Ohio’s primary election scheduled for May 6, 2025. Voters who miss this deadline will not be able to participate in the primary contests that will determine candidates for various local and state offices.
Registration Requirements and Process
Ohio law requires residents to be registered at least 30 days before any election. Citizens must be 18 years old by the date of the election and have been residents of Ohio for at least 30 days prior to the election.
Eligible voters can register online through the Secretary of State’s website, by mail, or in person at their local board of elections office. The online system requires applicants to have a valid Ohio driver’s license or state identification card.
What’s on the 2025 Ballot
The May primary will feature races for various municipal offices, school board positions, and other local government seats across Ohio’s 88 counties. Specific contests will vary by location, with some communities also voting on local issues and ballot measures.
Political parties will use the primary to select their candidates for general election races scheduled for November 2025. These elections will fill positions including mayors, city council members, and county commissioners in various jurisdictions.
Voter Information Updates
Registered voters who have moved within Ohio or changed their names must update their registration information by the same April 6 deadline. Voters can verify their current registration status and polling location through the Secretary of State’s online voter lookup tool.
County boards of elections will mail sample ballots to registered voters approximately two weeks before the primary election. Early voting begins 28 days before election day, with expanded weekend hours available in many counties.
Ohio residents who need assistance with voter registration can contact their local board of elections or visit the Secretary of State’s website for detailed information about the process and requirements.
