(1) In order to vote in any primary, special election, or general election, a person who is not registered to vote in Washington must:

     (a) Submit a registration application no later than twenty-nine days before the day of the primary, special election, or general election; or

     (b) Register in person at the county auditor's office in his or her county of residence no later than eight days before the day of the primary, special election, or general election. A person registering under this subsection will be issued an absentee ballot.

     (2) A person who is already registered to vote in Washington may update his or her registration no later than twenty-nine days before the day of the primary, special election, or general election to be in effect for that primary, special election, or general election. A registered voter who fails to transfer his or her residential address by this deadline may vote according to his or her previous registration address.

     (3) Prior to each primary and general election, the county auditor shall give notice of the registration deadlines by one publication in a newspaper of general circulation in the county at least thirty-five days before the primary or general election.

[2009 c 369 § 15; 2006 c 97 § 1; 2004 c 267 § 112; 2003 c 111 § 212. Prior: 1993 c 383 § 2; 1980 c 3 § 4; 1974 ex.s. c 127 § 4; 1971 ex.s. c 202 § 20; 1965 c 9 § 29.07.160; prior: 1947 c 68 § 2; 1933 c 1 § 9; Rem. Supp. 1947 § 5114-9. Formerly RCW 29.07.160.]

NOTES:

     Effective dates -- 2004 c 267: See note following RCW 29A.08.010.