Whether you’re newly fired up about politics, thinking about voting in a different primary, or your views have shifted, changing your political party in Pennsylvania is your right. In the Keystone State, your party registration decides which primary ballot you get—so if you want to help pick nominees for your favorite party, it’s important to keep your party info up to date.
Good news: changing your political party in PA is easier than you might expect. You can do it online, by mail, or in person—and it’s always free.
Pennsylvania’s Closed Primary System
Pennsylvania is a “closed primary” state. That means you can only vote in the primary for the party you’re registered with—Democrat, Republican, or any recognized minor party. If you’re registered as “No Affiliation” or “Independent,” you’ll miss out on party primaries (but you can always vote in general elections).
Step 1: Check Your Current Voter Registration
Unsure of your current party or address? Quickly look it up here:
Check Voter Registration Status
Step 2: Update Your Party Online (Fastest Way!)
Pennsylvania’s online voter registration site makes it easy to update your party anytime.
- Visit the portal and click “Update Your Registration.”
- Enter your info exactly as it appears on your PA driver’s license or state ID (or provide the last 4 digits of your Social Security number).
- When you reach the “Party Affiliation” section, pick your new party: Democrat, Republican, Green, Libertarian, or “None” for independent/unaffiliated.
- Double-check your details, then submit. You’ll get a confirmation screen—take a screenshot or note the confirmation for your records.
Step 3: Prefer Paper? Use a Mail-In or In-Person Form
- Download a PA Voter Registration Application (PDF).
- Fill out all details and select your new party (Section 9: Party Affiliation).
- Check the “Change” box at the top to let officials know you’re updating an existing registration.
- Mail it to your county voter registration office or drop it off in person (county offices, DMVs, or designated state agencies).
Step 4: Mind the Deadline!
To vote in your new party’s next primary, you must submit your party change at least 15 days before the election. Miss the deadline? Your new party will take effect for the next election cycle instead. Don’t wait—especially during busy election years!
Step 5: Confirm Your Party Change
You should get a new voter card in the mail a few weeks after you submit your change. You can also check your status online to make sure the update went through. If you don’t see the change, or if there’s a mistake, contact your county election office ASAP—they can help fix it quickly.
FAQs: Pennsylvania Political Party Changes
- How often can I change my party? As often as you want, but always before the deadline.
- Does it cost anything? No—changing your party is always free.
- Will my party be public? Yes, party affiliation is public record, but your ballot choices always stay private.
- What if I move? Update your address and party at the same time for a smooth voting experience.
- What does “None” or “No Affiliation” mean? You’re not registered with a party and won’t get a party primary ballot.
Final Thoughts: Your Voice, Your Choice
Changing your political party in Pennsylvania is quick, free, and your right as a voter. Keep your registration current to make your vote count—especially if you want to participate in primaries. And if you hit any snags, your county election office is there to help.
Don’t wait for election season—make the change now and vote for what matters to you!