Guide

How to run for ANC

Running for your Advisory Neighborhood Commission is one of the most reachable ways to hold real local power in DC. Here is the whole path start to finish. You already know your block better than anyone.

Who can run

You must live in the single-member district you want to represent. You must be a registered DC voter there and at least 18. Citizenship is not required. That is the entire eligibility bar.

Find your seat

Every DC neighborhood is split into single-member districts of about 2,000 neighbors each. Find your seat to see the one you live in and who represents it now. You can take the 10-minute readiness check to see where you stand.

Gather your signatures

You need 25 valid signatures from registered voters in your district. We coach 50 so a challenge can never touch you. Most seats fill because a neighbor gathered a room. Bring a friend and make it social.

Pick up your petition

Petitions open in early July. You pick yours up in person at DCBOE and sign your Declaration of Candidacy there in front of Board staff. It is free, with no notary and never at home. Here is a short guide to that step.

File by the deadline

Completed petitions are filed in person by the August deadline. Petitions open July 6. Filing closes August 5. The election is November 3. Always confirm the current dates at dcboe.org.

You are backed

You never do this alone. A cohort of neighbors and mentors who have run ride with you the whole way. A safety kit comes too so you can prepare for the public part with confidence. Running as yourself is the point.