Voting is one of the few rights reserved for US citizens. A mistake here can have permanent immigration consequences, even for green card holders.
Only US citizens can vote in federal elections (President, Congress). This is true for green card holders too.
It is a federal crime for a non-citizen to vote in a federal election, or to falsely claim to be a US citizen to register to vote.
A non-citizen who votes illegally or falsely claims citizenship can be deported and may be permanently barred from getting a green card or citizenship. In most cases, there is no waiver.
A few towns allow non-citizens to vote in certain local elections only. This is rare and has its own registration. Never assume it applies to you.
When you get a driver's license or state ID, the form may ask: "Are you a US citizen? Would you like to register to vote?" In some states, registration happens automatically unless you opt out.
Read every question on the form carefully. Ask for a form in your language if you need it.
Answer No to "Are you a US citizen?"
Do not check any box to register to vote. If a clerk asks "Do you want to register to vote?", say "No, I am not a citizen."
If you receive a voter registration card in the mail by mistake, do not vote. Contact your county election office in writing to cancel the registration, keep a copy, and talk to an immigration lawyer.
Also say no to people at tables outside stores or on campus who ask you to register.
Attend city council and school board meetings and speak during public comment.
Volunteer, join community groups and contact your representatives.
Encourage citizen friends and family to vote.
The census counts everyone living in the US, citizens and non-citizens, every 10 years. The next one is in 2030. The count decides how many representatives each state gets and how federal money is shared.
Census answers are confidential by law. The Census Bureau cannot share your personal answers with immigration authorities, police or landlords.
Between censuses, the Census Bureau sends surveys such as the American Community Survey to some homes. Answering it is required by law.
The real Census Bureau never asks for your Social Security number, bank or card numbers, or money, and never threatens arrest. If unsure, check at census.gov.
Checking "yes" to register to vote at the DMV because you did not understand the question.
Voting because a friend said "green card holders can vote". They cannot in federal elections.
Ignoring a real census survey because you thought it was a scam. Verify it instead.