I just turned 18: your civic checklist

1. Register to vote (U.S. citizens)

• The 26th Amendment protects the vote for citizens 18 and older.
• Register at vote.gov. Deadlines differ by state. Some states let you register on Election Day.
• Some states let you pre-register at 16 or 17.
• If you are not a U.S. citizen, do not register. It can lead to deportation. See First-time voter.

2. Selective Service (most men 18 to 25)

• Selective Service keeps a list of men who could be drafted if Congress ever brings back a draft. There is no draft now.
• Most men ages 18 through 25 living in the U.S. must register within 30 days of turning 18.
• This includes U.S. citizens, green card holders, and undocumented immigrants.
• Men on a valid temporary visa, like a student or tourist visa, do not have to register.
• Selective Service goes by sex assigned at birth. People assigned male at birth must register.
• In many states, getting a driver's license signs you up. You can also register at sss.gov.
• A 2025 law tells Selective Service to start signing men up automatically. The start date is not settled.
• Until automatic sign-up starts, you must register yourself. Check sss.gov for the latest.

If you don't register: it can block most federal jobs, some state student aid, federal job training, and U.S. citizenship for immigrant men. Not registering is also a federal crime.

3. Jury duty (U.S. citizens)

• Only citizens can serve on a jury. You may get a summons in the mail after you turn 18.
• Answer it by its deadline, even if you can't serve.
• If you are not a citizen, say so on the form. Never claim to be a citizen.
• See Jury summons for what to expect.

What else changes at 18

• If you are charged with a crime, your case usually goes to adult court.
• You can sign contracts, like a lease or a phone plan. Read them before you sign.
• The Constitution protects you before and after 18. Once you leave high school, school rules no longer cover you.
• See Who the Constitution covers to learn where your rights apply.