Life changes, and so can your political beliefs! In California, your party registration affects which primary ballots you’ll receive and sometimes which candidates you get to help nominate. Maybe you want to join a party for the first time, switch from Democrat to Republican, go independent (“No Party Preference”), or just update your registration info. Whatever your reason, California makes it simple and fast to change your political party—especially online.
You don’t have to wait for an election to switch. And you can update your party anytime your views shift, you move, or you just want to make a change.
The Basics: What You Need to Know
- California has a “top two” primary system. For most state offices, all candidates run in the same primary and the top two—regardless of party—move to the general election. But for the presidential primary, your party matters a lot for which candidates you can vote for.
- You can update your party affiliation as often as you want—there’s no limit or fee.
- Changing your party online is quick and secure.
Step 1: Go to the Official California Voter Registration Website
The easiest, fastest way to change your party is through California’s secure online voter registration system. Here’s how:
- Visit the official site: registertovote.ca.gov
Step 2: Start a New Registration (It’s Also for Updates)
In California, updating your political party is the same process as registering for the first time. Click “Register to Vote Now” and fill in your info—even if you’re already registered. The system will update your old record with your new details.
Step 3: Enter Your Personal Information
- Provide your legal name, home address, mailing address (if different), date of birth, and California driver’s license or state ID number, or the last four digits of your Social Security number.
- If you don’t have a license or Social Security number, you can still register—but you’ll likely need to provide a signature or ID the first time you vote.
Step 4: Choose Your New Political Party
- On the form, you’ll see a list of recognized parties: Democratic, Republican, Green, Libertarian, American Independent, Peace and Freedom, or No Party Preference (NPP, which means independent).
- Select the party you want, or choose “No Party Preference” if you want to be unaffiliated.
Pro Tip: For presidential primaries, your party determines which ballot you’ll receive. “No Party Preference” voters may need to request a specific ballot for some parties.
Step 5: Review and Submit
- Review all your info to make sure it’s correct—especially your address and party choice.
- Submit your updated registration online.
The site will let you know if your update was received. You should get a postcard or confirmation in the mail within a few weeks.
Step 6: Check Your Registration Status
- After a week or two, double-check that your change went through at voterstatus.sos.ca.gov
- Enter your information to see your registration status, including your current party affiliation and voting address.
Deadlines Matter: Don’t Miss Your Chance to Vote
If you want your new party to count for an upcoming election or primary, make sure to change your registration at least 15 days before Election Day. For presidential primaries, deadlines can be even earlier—check the Secretary of State’s election calendar for the exact date each cycle.
What If You Prefer Paper?
You can also update your registration using a paper form. Pick one up at your local county elections office, DMV, post office, or library. Fill it out, check the new party you want, and mail or hand-deliver it. But honestly, online is usually much faster!
FAQs for Changing Your Party Online in California
- Is it free? Yes! There’s never a charge to register or update your party.
- How many times can I change? As many as you want—just make sure it’s before the deadline for the next election.
- Does “No Party Preference” mean I can’t vote? Not at all! You can still vote in general elections and most local contests. For presidential primaries, you may need to request a ballot for the party you want to vote for (some parties allow this, some don’t).
- Will my new party be visible to others? Party affiliation is public record in California, but your actual vote is always private.
- What if I move? Update your registration every time you move to keep your party and address up to date.
Final Thoughts: Your Registration, Your Choice
Changing your political party in California is simple, quick, and always your decision. Whether you’re switching to a new party, going independent, or just keeping your info current, a few minutes online is all it takes. If you need help, your county elections office is just a call or email away.
Take a moment to check your registration and make sure it reflects your voice. When it comes to elections, every update counts!