Pennsylvania’s automatic voter registration will begin as part of its new approval process for driver’s licenses and state IDs, writes Neil Vigdor for The New York Times.

The program was announced by Gov. Josh Shapiro. It is similar to programs offered in 23 other states and the District of Columbia.

To be registered, voters have to meet certain eligibility requirements, including being a U.S. citizen and a resident of Pennsylvania for at least 30 days before the election. Being 18 years old on the date of the next election is also a requirement.

Pennsylvania’s steps to expand access to the polls were heralded by voting rights groups.

“Automatic voter registration is a common-sense step to ensure election security and save Pennsylvanians time and tax dollars,” said Shapiro.

“Residents of our Commonwealth already provide proof of identity, residency, age, and citizenship at the D.M.V. — all the information required to register to vote — so it makes good sense to streamline that process with voter registration.”

Read more about The Keystone State’s innovative approach to voter registration in The New York Times.

Gov. Josh Shapiro: PA has made a ‘giant leap forward’ in automatic voter registration