MITCHELL, SD (Mitchell Now) — South Dakota residents have until May 18 to register to vote in the upcoming election, according to state law.
To be eligible, completed voter registration applications must be received by the county auditor no later than 5 p.m. local time on that date, which falls 15 days before the election. This deadline ensures voters are properly entered into the state’s master registration file.
Applications submitted through local, state, or federal agencies follow a set timeline. Registrations completed between Tuesday and the following Monday must be forwarded to the appropriate county auditor by the next Wednesday for processing.
Election officials stress the importance of registering early, especially for those who have recently moved, changed their name, or have not yet registered. Missing the May 18 deadline means individuals will not be able to vote in the upcoming election.
The same deadline structure applies to any potential runoff elections, requiring voters to be registered at least 15 days in advance to participate.
Residents can register through their county auditor’s office or at designated government agencies. Additional information is available through local election officials.
For more information on registering to vote visit sdsos.gov.