How to register to vote: #RegisterToVote Google Doodle tells you all you need to know

Today is Voter Registration Day in the US ahead of the midterm elections on 6 November.

Google's latest Doodle directs American searchers to results advising on how to get yourself registered so you can make your voice is heard at the ballot box.

To be able to vote, you need to be a US citizen, at least 18 years old by election day and able to meet any other requirements your state dictates. Convicted felons and non-citizens are ineligible.

Every state except North Dakota requires you to register to vote in advance of polling day. As deadlines differ from state to state, you are best advised to check yours at the US Vote Foundation.

You can register to vote online at Vote.gov or NationalVoterRegistrationDay.org by completing a quick form giving some basic personal details.

If you're already registered, you can also use these portals to record a change of name or permanent address. Failure to do so might invalidate your ballot.

They also offer facilities to register for absentee voting for US citizens living overseas or service members posted abroad.

Alternatively, you can get registered in person at your local election office (find yours here), department of motor vehicles or armed services recruitment centres or by post using the national mail voter registration form.

It's worth double-checking your registration status in advance, even if you have voted before. Local election offices routinely purge their rosters of people who have moved away or recently been inactive, so there's an outside chance you might have been removed in error.

When you're signed up, your local election office will send you a polling card confirming your enrolment and giving directions to your nearest polling station where you need to go to cast your vote on the big day.

Be advised, you might be asked to prove your identity on the day so remember to bring along a valid driving licence.