How to make sure your vote counts this election

With Election Day approaching, Montana voters have one last chance to make their voices heard in the 2026 general election taking place on Tuesday, Nov. 3. 

Whether students are voting for the first time, attending MSU from another state or simply don’t know where to start — the voting process is not as complicated as it may seem.

In order to vote in Montana you must be registered to vote, be at least 18 years old, be a citizen of the U.S. and be a resident of Montana for a minimum of 30 days, according to the Montana Secretary of State’s website. If you’re living on campus, don’t worry — residency includes dorm addresses.

Regular voter registration closed Oct. 5, but Montana allows eligible voters to register in person on select dates, according to Gallatin County’s website. For students in Bozeman, the Gallatin County Election Department and the Strand Union Building (SUB) are likely the two most convenient locations.

The Gallatin County Election Department, located in room 210 of the Gallatin County Courthouse, will accept registrations from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. through Oct. 30. It will also accept registrations from 8 a.m. to noon on Monday, Nov. 2 and from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Election Day.

Students can also register in the SUB Fireplace Room from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. until Oct. 30, from 9 a.m. to noon Nov. 2 and from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Election Day.

The registration process includes filling out a Montana voter registration application and providing a driver’s license number, the last four digits of your Social Security or checking a box indicating you have another valid photo ID — such as a Tribal ID, Military ID or passport. You will also need to provide a government document with your name and address, such as a paycheck stub, utility bill or bank statement.

Students already registered to vote in Montana should double-check their registration and polling location before Election Day. A voter’s assigned polling place depends on their registered address, so students shouldn’t assume they can vote at the location closest to campus. You can find your polling location using the Secretary of State’s Voter Portal. 

College is a busy time for us all, especially in the midst of midterms, and voting can seem like just another responsibility to fit into your schedule. However, taking a few minutes to check your registration and vote ensures students have a voice in the democratic process and in decisions that shape their future.

Other registration dates and locations can be found on Gallatin County’s website, at gallatinmt.gov. More information on registration is available on the Montana Secretary of State’s website at vote.mt.gov.