In a state where the motto is "Live Free or Die" and the traditional town meeting is still held each year, you can expect the voter registration process to be basic. Voting eligibility is simple; you must be 18 years old and a resident of New Hampshire.

In order to register you must go to the town office where you are a resident. In most rural towns the town clerk will know you by face and positive ID isn't necessary; however, in a few of the larger NH cities you will have to prove your residency before registering to vote:

• Valid NH vehicle registration.

• NH driver's license.

• U.S. passport.

• Utility bill with recent postmark addressed to you.

The town clerk will add you to the voting register at no cost to you. This register is maintained by the town and used at every voting session: school district votes, town meetings, presidential elections, zoning rules, and budgets.

When you go to vote on voting day you are not required to show positive identification, for example your driver's license or non-driver ID, but there is some current discussion about requiring identification at voting desks.

Many residents and politicians are worried that proof of ID might dampen voter turnout. At this time, if the checklist attendant is satisfied that you are who you say you are, then you don't need to prove yourself.

Registering to vote is a right you should exercise. The process of voting is educational when you take the time to learn the issues and the people involved. Participating in a community means getting involved and voting on policies, budgets, plans, and positions.

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