Iowa Introduces New Voter Registration Forms

Proof of citizenship still isn't required at the moment someone registers. But if the county can't confirm a registrant's citizenship through Iowa DOT records or the federal Systematic Alien Verification for Entitlements (SAVE) database, that registration gets flagged as "unconfirmed." The county auditor then mails the voter a notice asking them to send proof of citizenship before their registration is finalized.

What we need to do differently

When we're helping someone register, three things matter more than they used to:

• Get the DOT information right. A driver's license or non-operator ID number that matches DOT records is what allows the state to confirm citizenship electronically. If a registrant recently changed their name, moved, or was naturalized after their ID was issued, flag it — they may need to update their record with the DOT first, or use the paper form instead of registering online.
• Set the expectation up front. Let registrants know a follow-up notice from the county auditor is normal, not a sign anything went wrong. 
• Carry the current form. Discard any old forms you may have on hand, always use the most recent official Iowa voter registration form (download and print), remember it requires an original wet signature — no photocopied signatures, faxes, or scans.

None of this changes who's eligible to vote. It changes how carefully we need to walk people through the process so their registration doesn't stall in the mail.

Questions? Contact the Secretary of State

If you run into a situation you're not sure how to handle, don't guess. Reach out directly to the Iowa Secretary of State's office at their website or by phone at (515) 281-0145. The toll-free voter hotline is 1-888-SOS-VOTE.