Secretary of State Cord Byrd reminds Florida voters to register before August Primary Election deadline
Tallahassee, Florida – Florida Secretary of State Cord Byrd is reminding residents that the deadline to register to vote or update party affiliation for the upcoming August 18, 2026, Primary Election is quickly approaching. The deadline for eligible Floridians to complete voter registration changes is Monday, July 20, 2026.
State election officials are encouraging residents to check their voter registration information and make any necessary updates before the deadline. Floridians can verify their status or complete a new voter registration application through RegisterToVoteFlorida.gov.
Secretary Byrd said the registration deadline is an important step in ensuring eligible voters can participate in the upcoming election and have their voices heard.
“Monday, July 20, 2026, is the deadline to register to vote for the August 18, 2026, primary election,” said Secretary of State Cord Byrd. “This is also the deadline to update your party affiliation. As we mark 250 years of American independence, I want to make sure all eligible voters can cast their ballots, honoring our nation’s legacy during this historic year.”
Florida operates as a closed primary election state, meaning voters can only participate in a political party’s primary election if they are registered members of that party. Voters who are not affiliated with a party or who are registered with a different party may not be able to vote for certain party candidates during the primary election.
Officials explained that voters may register with a political party or change their party affiliation at any time. However, to participate in a specific party’s primary election, the registration or party change must be completed by the July 20 deadline.
The requirement is outlined under Florida law, specifically section 97.055 of the Florida Statutes. Election officials say understanding these deadlines is important because waiting until after the deadline could prevent voters from taking part in certain primary contests.
The upcoming August 18 election will be part of Florida’s regular election cycle, and state officials are encouraging residents to prepare early. Checking voter information in advance can help ensure that names, addresses and party affiliations are accurate before Election Day.
The Florida Division of Elections provides additional resources for residents who have questions about voter registration requirements, deadlines and election procedures. Information is available through the Division of Elections website, including answers to frequently asked questions about voter registration.
Officials are also reminding voters that maintaining accurate registration information is an important part of participating in elections. Residents who have recently moved, changed their name or want to update their political party affiliation should complete those updates before the deadline.
Florida residents who need to register to vote or confirm their current registration status can visit RegisterToVoteFlorida.gov before July 20, 2026.
The Secretary of State’s office continues to encourage all eligible voters to take the necessary steps ahead of the primary election so they are prepared to participate in Florida’s democratic process.
