VRM in the States: Utah

Advances in Voter Registration Modernization

• Electronic Voter Registration: Utah enacted legislation in 2018 approving electronic voter registration at DMV offices. Information will be electronically transferred from DMV offices to election officials. 
• Online Voter Registration: Utah launched online voter registration through the Lieutenant Governor’s Office in 2010. Eligible citizens with a state driver’s license or non-driver ID can use the system to register to vote and update their registration information.
• Election Day Registration: Utah implemented Election Day registration in 2018. Individuals may register and vote at the polls on Election Day and and during the early voting period by casting a provisional ballot that will be counted. 
• Preregistration: 16– and 17-year-olds can preregister to vote. Those who preregister can vote once they turn 18 without needing to re-register.

Gains from Voter Registration Modernization in Utah

The steps Utah has taken thus far have yielded increases financial benefits for the state. For example:  

• During a May 2013 interview with Brennan Center staff, Utah election officials reported cost savings on application processing due to online registration. Counties no longer need to print as many paper forms or hire as many temporary workers before elections.
• Utah implemented online registration at a cost of approximately $36,000.