Check the legal requirements for mayoral candidates in your city or town
Meet the age, residency, and voter registration requirements
Learn the duties and powers of the mayor in your locality
Gain experience in public service, community leadership, or local government
Build a reputation in your community
Join a political party if your area uses party nominations
Decide whether to run in a partisan or nonpartisan election
Register your candidacy with the proper election office
Gather the required signatures or filing documents
Create a campaign plan and budget
Raise money for your campaign
Build a campaign team and volunteer network
Communicate your platform and priorities to voters
Attend public forums, debates, and community events
Campaign door to door, by mail, online, and through local media
Vote in the election and encourage supporters to vote
Win the election and complete any required certification steps
Take the oath of office and begin serving as mayor