Voting is one of the most fundamental rights in a democracy, but the minimum voting age varies significantly from country to country. Most nations set the voting age at 18, but some allow voting as young as 16, while a few set the bar at 21. If you are approaching voting age or planning your civic participation, knowing exactly when you become eligible is essential.
Use our Voting Age Calculator to find out exactly when you will be eligible to vote.
Voting Ages by Country
| Country | Voting Age | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| United States | 18 | Set by 26th Amendment (1971) |
| United Kingdom | 18 | 16 in Scotland for local and Scottish Parliament elections |
| Canada | 18 | Federal and provincial elections |
| Australia | 18 | Voting is compulsory |
| Germany | 18 | 16 in some states for local elections |
| France | 18 | Reduced from 21 in 1974 |
| Japan | 18 | Reduced from 20 in 2016 |
| South Korea | 18 | Reduced from 19 in 2020 |
| Brazil | 16 | Mandatory for 18–70, optional at 16–17 |
| Argentina | 16 | Optional at 16–17 |
| Austria | 16 | One of the lowest in Europe |
| Malta | 16 | For all elections |
| Greece | 17 | Reduced from 18 in 2016 |
| Indonesia | 17 | National elections |
| Singapore | 21 | One of the highest voting ages |
| Malaysia | 18 | Reduced from 21 in 2019 |
| United Arab Emirates | 18 | Electoral college system |
Why 18 Is the Most Common Voting Age
The age of 18 is widely regarded as the age of adulthood in most legal systems. At 18, individuals can typically serve in the military, sign contracts, marry without parental consent, and be tried as adults in court. The United States lowered the voting age from 21 to 18 in 1971 with the 26th Amendment, largely in response to the argument that if 18-year-olds could be drafted to fight in Vietnam, they should have the right to vote.
The Case for Lowering the Voting Age to 16
Several countries and regions allow 16-year-olds to vote, with Austria being a notable example since 2007. Proponents argue that:
- 16-year-olds can work, pay taxes, and drive in most places
- Earlier voting participation builds lifelong civic habits
- Young people are directly affected by education and climate policies
How to Calculate When You Can Vote
To determine when you become eligible to vote, you need to know:
- Your current age — your exact age in years as of today
- Your country’s voting age — check the table above
- Election dates — voter registration deadlines vary
Use our Voting Age Calculator to see exactly when you turn voting age in your country. You can also check your exact age down to the day to confirm you meet eligibility requirements for an upcoming election.
Voter Registration Deadlines
Turning voting age is just the first step. Most countries require voter registration before you can cast a ballot. Deadlines range from same-day registration (in some U.S. states and Canada) to 30 days before the election (in many countries). Check your local election authority’s website and register as soon as you become eligible.
Calculate your eligibility date with the Voting Age Calculator and make sure you do not miss the registration window.
