Green Card Holders Can't Vote Federally, Some Local Votes OK
Green card holders can’t vote in federal elections either: USAGov says non-citizens, including permanent legal residents, cannot vote in federal, state and most local elections. Some areas allow non-citizens to vote in local elections only.
To vote, you must be a US citizen, meet your state’s residency requirements, be 18 on or before Election Day, and be registered by your state’s deadline.
Who can vote
USAGov explains (USAGov who can vote):
- US citizens: including citizens living abroad and dual citizens; some areas allow non-citizens to vote in local elections only.
- State residency requirements: you can be experiencing homelessness and still meet them.
- Age 18: 18 on or before Election Day; in almost every state you can register before turning 18 if you’ll be 18 by Election Day.
- Registered by the deadline: by your state’s voter registration deadline; North Dakota doesn’t require voter registration.
Who can’t vote
- Non-citizens: including permanent legal residents, can’t vote in federal, state and most local elections.
- Some people with felony convictions or serving time: rules differ by state.
- Some people with a mental disability: rules differ by state.
- US citizens living in US territories: can’t vote for president in the general election.
If you have questions about who can vote, USAGov says to contact your state or local election office.
Being registered to vote in Washington is also one of the ways you’re considered a resident when you move there; see New to Washington, License in 30 Days, Then Register a Car; for other responsibilities of green card holders, see Green Card Duties, Worldwide Income and Long Stays Abroad.
What this article did not check
- What happens if a non-citizen registers or votes: this USAGov page doesn’t say, so this article doesn’t either, and it draws no conclusions about individual cases.
- Which places let non-citizens vote in local elections: the page doesn’t list them, and this article did not check.
Frequently asked questions
Can green card holders vote?
Not in federal, state or most local elections. USAGov says some areas allow non-citizens to vote in local elections only.
Can US citizens with dual citizenship vote?
Yes. USAGov lists dual citizens living in the US or abroad among the citizens who can vote.
Can I register at 17?
In almost every state you can register before turning 18, as long as you’ll be 18 by Election Day.
Who do I ask if I’m not sure I can vote?
USAGov says to contact your state or local election office.
Sources and dates checked
All checked on 2026-10-30. This article is not legal or immigration advice.
- USAGov, Who can and cannot vote (page updated 2026-02-23):https://www.usa.gov/who-can-vote