Your complete guide to securing the documentation you need to vote under the SAVE Act
The SAVE America Act, passed by the U.S. House of Representatives in February 2026, requires voters to provide documentary proof of U.S. citizenship when registering to vote in federal elections. While this legislation is currently pending in the Senate, it's important to understand what documentation may be required.
Important for women who have changed their names: If your name has changed through marriage or other circumstances, ensure your documentation reflects your current legal name, or have documentation showing the name change (such as a marriage certificate).
Over 21 million Americans may not have ready access to the required documentation. This guide is designed to help you navigate the process of obtaining the documents you need. Start early—birth certificates can take several weeks to obtain, and passports can take 4-6 weeks for routine processing.
Select your birth state below to find official resources for obtaining your birth certificate
A U.S. passport is one of the most straightforward ways to prove citizenship. If you don't already have a passport, now is a good time to apply. Routine processing takes 4-6 weeks, while expedited service takes 2-3 weeks (with an additional $60 fee).
Many Post Offices accept passport applications. You can schedule an appointment online at USPS.com.
CDC Vital Records Office: For comprehensive information about vital records in all states, visit the CDC's "Where to Write for Vital Records" page.
Name Changes: If you've changed your name through marriage, you'll typically need both your birth certificate and your marriage certificate to establish the connection between your birth name and current legal name.
Costs: Birth certificate fees vary by state (typically $15-$50). Passport applications cost $130 for adults (first-time applicants), plus a $35 execution fee.
Processing Times: Start early! Birth certificates can take 2-4 weeks depending on your state. Passports take 4-6 weeks for routine processing or 2-3 weeks for expedited service.