New York's bipartisan Board of Elections on Wednesday formally launched an online portal for first-time voter registration as well as allowed for updates to registration information. 

The creation of the online registration portal comes four years after the passage of a measure that allowed for the creation of an electronic voter registration system. Eligible New Yorkers can register to vote by visiting the website and entering their information, including their name, address and date of birth. 

“We are pleased to announce the successful launch of Online Voter Registration in New York State," said Commissioner Douglas Kellner. "The Board’s new portal marks the further modernization of New York’s election processes and ensures that New York residents can register online even if they do not have a DMV issued ID or license.” 

New York has sought over the last several years to make it easier to register to vote as well as expand voting options, such as early voting. But at the ballot box, voters have also rejected state constitutional changes such as same-day registration as well as allowing for no-excuse absentee balloting. 

There are data security features, including having New Yorkers registering through the ny.gov sign-in platform, which is used by several state entities, including the Department of Motor Vehicles and the Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance.

“The launch of the Online Voter Registration portal seeks to expand voter registration opportunities while still maintaining the integrity of the voting process,” said Commissioner Peter Kosinski.