Final answer:
Voter registration is the process of entering an eligible individual's name into the list of voters, which allows them to participate in elections after meeting certain requirements, such as age, citizenship, and residency.
Step-by-step explanation:
The entry of a person's name into the list of eligible voters is called voter registration. When an individual meets voter registration requirements, such as being at least 18 years of age, a U.S. citizen, and a resident of their voting jurisdiction, they can be added to this list. The process varies by state and can be as simple as checking a box on a governmental form, or as intricate as filling out detailed paperwork and providing proofs of identification and residency.
Under federal law, all states must permit residents to register to vote at least 30 days before an election. However, certain conditions such as felony convictions or mental incompetence, as determined by a court, may disqualify an individual from registering to vote. The mechanism serves the purpose of preparing the voting-eligible population to participate in local, state, and federal elections. Although registration is instrumental in the democratic process, it can also act as a deterrent to potential voters due to its complexity or requirements.