This article uses information compiled by the League of Women Voters of Asheville-Buncombe County and from the Buncombe County Board of Elections.

from Staff Reports

Any North Carolina resident who is at least 18 years old and a U.S. citizen is eligible to vote as long as he or she has lived in Buncombe County for 30 days before the next election. The only exceptions are people who are under court supervision for a felony: people in prison or on probation (or “parole” under old NC law) for a felony may not register or vote until their probation ends.

When to Register
Registration is year-round, but you must be registered at least 25 days before any election to vote in that election. If you don’t know your registration status, call the Board of Elections at 828-250-4200 to inquire. If you are eligible to vote but not registered, October 10 is the last day to register to be able to vote in the November 4 election. Voter Registration forms are available at locations around Buncombe County, or online at the Board of Elections web site at http://www.buncombecounty.org/governing/depts/Election/ .

When you get your registration form, you can fill it out at home – make sure it includes your current address – and mail it to: Buncombe County Board of Elections, 189 College Street, Asheville, NC 28801. The Board of Elections will assign your precinct and mail you a Voter Registration card that tells you the location of your voting place. You DON’T need to bring the card with you when you go vote, but it’s a good idea to do so.

Forms are available at the following locations:
•    Buncombe County Board of Elections, 189 College Street;
•    All libraries in the Asheville-Buncombe Library System;
•    All public high schools in Buncombe County;
•    Drivers License offices (DMV);
•    Employment Security Offices, AFDC, WIC, Food Stamp, and Medicaid offices, and
•    Agencies serving persons with disabilities.

Changes in Registration
If you are already registered to vote and you change your name, address, or party affiliation, you have to change your registration. You may change your name or address at any time, including Election Day, without affecting your right to vote. (Party affiliation is important only for primary elections; it does not matter for general elections.)
Registration & Changes by Mail

Mail-in registration forms may be used for all election-related transactions. Registration and any of the changes listed above that are requested by mail must be postmarked at least 25 days before the election.