How to register to vote

Where and when you need to register by to participate in the November Election.

WStoday: Forsyth County Board of elections

Voters can drop their voter registration form or request an absentee ballot at Forsyth County Board of Elections.

WStoday team

Table of Contents

Elections are quickly approaching and before you know it, it will be time to cast a ballot. The Forsyth County Board of Elections has launched its redesigned website to help voters find polling information— but first, we want to make sure that you are equipped with all you need to know.

Municipal elections within Forsyth County are only happening in Bethania, Clemmons, Kernersville, Lewisville, and Walkertown— and not Winston-Salem.

Check your registration status

First, double-check your registration status — especially if you’ve moved. Otherwise your ballot will be sent to the wrong place. You can update your status online. It only takes a few seconds to fill out. If you plan to vote early in person, you can cast a ballot at any polling place within the county.

Register, if you need to

Not registered? Don’t sweat it. You can:

  • Register online through the NCDMV website. Pro tip: Photo ID is required when voting in all North Carolina elections. Don’t have one? Voters can get a free one at the Forsyth County Board of Elections located at 201 N. Chestnut St. in Winston-Salem.
  • First-timers should register by Friday Oct. 13 for municipal elections taking place Tuesday, Nov. 7.
  • Get educated about the list of candidates vying for your vote.

Here are a few dates to keep in mind

  • Saturday, Nov. 4— Last day for one-stop early voting.
  • Tuesday, Nov. 7— Municipal election. Polls open at 6:30 a.m. and close at 7:30 p.m. Curbside voting assistance is available for voters with differing abilities. All mail-in ballots must be postmarked by 5 p.m. and received within 3 days after election day.
  • Monday, Nov. 17— Deadline to receive ballots. For those mailing, you can request your absentee ballot and track its status from printed to accepted by signing up online for status notifications through BallotTrax.

Get caught up on the full voting schedule.

More from WStoday
The annual international film festival showcases new films from established and emerging filmmakers each spring.
City officials approved new budgets and proposed changes that will be implemented beginning this April.
Pack your reusable shopping bags, because we’ve rounded up six farmers markets in and around Winston-Salem.
Bookmark this guide for a curated list of events taking place each month that we’re most looking forward to.
Maximize your commute with these reader and editor picks of Winston-Salem, NC podcasts for business, leadership, and entrepreneurship.
Pull out those planners for some egg-citing events to celebrate Easter around the Twin City.
Here’s the deal — the swap meet and vintage shopping scene is stellar in the Twin City.
Explore the best local craft shops in the Twin City, where you can browse crafting supplies and sign up for hands-on workshops.
Learn about creeks, birds, and how to help our natural habitats thrive within Forsyth County.
From composting to planting seeds, these workshops will teach you best practices for growing your garden.