What age must citizens be to vote in federal elections?

Citizens must be at least 18 years old to vote in federal elections in the United States. This age requirement is established by the 26th Amendment to the Constitution, which was ratified in 1971. The amendment was a response to the ongoing debates about voting rights and the fairness of requiring individuals who were old enough to be drafted for military service, typically at age 18, to also have the right to vote.

Voting at age 18 reflects the belief that young adults are capable of making informed decisions about their government and should have the opportunity to participate in the democratic process. The provision ensures equal access to voting rights for all citizens, regardless of age, once they hit this significant milestone in their lives.