National Voter Registration Act (NVRA) Information
What Is the NVRA?
The National Voter Registration Act (NVRA) was enacted by Congress in 1993 to expand voter registration opportunities for Americans. The Act ensures that voter registration is offered alongside key government services—especially at the Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) and public assistance agencies.
Where Can Citizens Register to Vote Under the NVRA?
1. Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV)
Citizens can register to vote at all BMV locations when:
Applying for a driver’s license
Renewing a driver’s license
Updating personal information
2. Public Assistance and Disability Service Agencies (Section 7 Agencies)
Section 7 of the NVRA requires states to provide voter registration at agencies that offer public assistance or disability services. In Ohio, these include:
Department of Job and Family Services
Women, Infants & Children (WIC) Program
The Department of Behavioral Health
Department of Developmental Disabilities
Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities
Public high schools
Public vocational schools
Public libraries
County treasurers' offices
Role of the Ohio Secretary of State
The Ohio Secretary of State supports NVRA compliance by:
Providing training, resources, and instruction manuals to participating agencies
Supplying official voter registration forms
Ensuring agencies understand their rights and responsibilities under federal law
The information and resources below are designed to help both agencies and voters comply with NVRA requirements.
NVRA Manuals and Resources Instruction Manuals for Designated Agencies & Public Institutions
Instruction Manual for Designated Agencies
Voter Registration Manual for the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles
Voter Registration Manual for the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services
Posters and Forms
Voter Registration Posters
Voter Registration Instructions
Voter Registration Forms
Use these forms to register to vote, or to update your name or address: