Voter Registration Deadline Nears for North Carolina Primary

Voting activity is underway across North Carolina ahead of the March 3 primary, with millions of residents registered and key deadlines approaching.

The North Carolina State Board of Elections reports 7,710,757 registered voters as of Jan. 31. As of Feb. 3, officials reported 12,749 absentee ballots requested and 1,034 ballots returned statewide.

Voters who plan to cast a ballot in person on Primary Election Day must be registered by 5 p.m. Friday, Feb. 6, which is also the deadline to change party affiliation. State law sets the registration cutoff 25 days before an election, according to the North Carolina State Board of Elections.

Residents who miss the deadline may still register and vote during the in-person early voting period, Feb. 12–28, at any early voting site in their county. Same-day registrants must attest to their eligibility, show proof of residence, and present an acceptable photo ID.

To register, individuals must be U.S. citizens, live at their listed residence for at least 30 days before the election, be 18 by the general election date — with eligible 17-year-olds allowed to vote in the primary — and not be serving a felony sentence.

Voters are encouraged to check or update their registration information online as soon as possible. For schedules, eligibility details, and official resources, visit ncsbe.gov or contact your county board of elections.