By Zach Hester, Reporter • zach@southerntorch.com

ALABAMA — The deadline to register to vote in the November general election is fast approaching. 

Alabama citizens who wish to vote this fall will need to register by Monday, October 19. In order to register, you must request a registration form by mail or download one at the Secretary of State of Alabama's website, sos.alabama.gov/alabama-votes/voter/register-to-vote. From there, fill it out, sign it, and mail it to your local board of registrars or submit it online. 

Potential voters must meet the following requirements: 

• Must be a U.S. citizen over the age of 18
• Must not be barred from voting by reason of a disqualifying felony conviction or have been judged "mentally incompetent" in a court of law
• Must present a valid Photo ID at your polling place or when requesting an absentee ballot

Alabama Secretary of State John Merrill encourages the usage of masks and following health protocols for those who choose to vote in person. For those who wish to vote absentee, more information can be found at the Secretary of State's website.

The general election, which will include the presential contest between President Donald J. Trump (R-Fla.) and former Vice President Joe Biden (D-Del.) and Alabama's U.S. Senate race between Sen. Doug Jones (D-Ala.) and Republican nominee Tommy Tuberville, will be held on Tuesday, November 3. Polls are open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.