US citizens in Bermuda have been invited to register to vote in the upcoming federal and state elections on November 5.

The US Consulate will hold a voting registration drive to help citizens sign up and vote absentee from overseas.

Staff will be available to help eligible voters with the registration process and absentee ballot requests.

Attendees can also collect registration forms that will be returned to the US Consulate or complete an online registration form through the Federal Voting Assistance Programme website.

US citizens were reminded by the Consulate that the right to vote was a basic right that they should exercise.

It is recommended that those who have voted in the past complete a new registration every year if they have previously registered for an absentee ballot.

US citizens must be 18 years or older to register, though people who will be 18 by November 5 can still register.

Most states require either the last four digits of the voter’s Social Security number or a state identification number, such as a US driver’s licence number, to complete the voter registration application.

A valid ID is required for entry into the Consulate. All visitors will be subjected to security screening and should not bring any other personal items.

The registration drive will take place on Friday, September 6, at the US Consulate on Middle Road, Devonshire, between 11am and 3pm.