Voting is important because elected officials have power over many aspects of citizens' lives. To register to vote, you must meet qualifications like being a resident of your county for at least 30 days. Then you complete a voter application and the board of elections will send you a voter card. Places to vote include public libraries, schools, departments of social services and the DMV. Important voting deadlines include registering at least 25 days before the election and being a resident of your county for 30 days.