Your Free Guide to Voter Registration
Your Free Guide to Voter Registration
We are privately owned and not affiliated with the government in any way or form. Our team of writers have researched Voter Registration to create this guide to assist consumers.
Voting in the United States
U.S. citizens who meet the eligibility requirements in their state can vote in local, state and federal elections to elect government officials. In all states but North Dakota, you must register to vote in order to exercise this right.
The process to register to vote varies by state, and each state offers multiple voting options, including absentee voting, mail-in voting and in-person voting on Election Day for the various types of elections.
Learn more about the voter registration process and how to vote in the U.S. in the sections in this guide.
Definitions of Common Voting and Election Terms
- Absentee ballot: This is a ballot completed and mailed in by a resident who cannot make it to the polls on Election Day.
- Ballot: A document that includes a list of candidates and initiatives that citizens vote on. Ballots can be completed electronically or by hand.
- Ballot initiative: This is a proposed law that state or local residents draft and place directly on the ballot to be voted on, and in some cases it bypasses the state legislature or local governing body altogether.
- Campaign finance disclosure: This is a law that requires candidates to report the sources of their campaign funds as well as how they are spent.
- Caucus: This is a meeting held as part of the first voting phase to determine which candidate should represent a political party in a general election.
- Constituent: The term used to describe a resident living in a politician’s district.
- Delegate: A person elected within a political party to represent their state and decide which candidate will be the nominee for the general election. There are three types of delegates: unpledged delegates, pledged delegates and superdelegates.
- District: The term used to describe the area that an elected official represents.
- Election fraud: The criminal act of violating election laws, including providing false information, voting illegally, bribery, ballot tampering.
- Election official: Person responsible for overseeing the election process in the polls, maintaining state requirements and tallying votes.
- Elector: A representative in the Electoral College who will vote to choose the presidential candidate.
- Electoral college: The process used to elect the president every four years. It involves a winner-take-all system in which the candidate who gets the most votes in a state gets all of the electoral votes given to the state. The candidate must receive at least half of the electoral votes, 270, to win the presidency.
- General election: The last stage in the voting process in which only candidates who won their primary elections/caucuses will participate.
- Inauguration: A ceremony in which the newly elected candidate is sworn in and officially takes office.
- Incumbent: Term referring to the current elected official who is in office.
- Mail-in voting: Voting by mail is the process of completing a paper ballot and mailing it to a local elections office to be counted in an upcoming election. It can be considered a form of absentee or early voting, as those who vote by mail are not physically heading to local polling stations.
- Midterm election: The congressional election that takes place in between presidential elections.
- Nominee: The title given to the candidate who is chosen to represent his or her political party.
- Polling place: The designated location given to residents to vote on Election Day. Or, if early voting is permitted, early voting polling places may also be designated.
- Popular vote: The term used when a candidate wins the majority of votes.
- Primary election: The first stage in the voting process in which the candidate pool is narrowed down to determine who will be permitted to be on the ballot in the general election.
- Provisional ballot: A ballot given to voters whose eligibility has not yet been verified.
- Special election: An election held to fill a vacant role in office due to death, resignation or impeachment.
- Super Tuesday: The day most primary elections and caucuses are held nationwide.
- Term: Length of time someone in office can serve in a position.
Importance of Each Vote
Voting is not only a constitutional right for all U.S. citizens but also a duty. It allows electors to decide who will best represent their interest at the local, state and federal level.
States and Territories That Vote
The residents of U.S. territories Guam, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, American Samoa and the Commonwealth of Northern Mariana Islands can vote in primary elections and elect a non voting delegate to Congress but cannot vote in general Presidential elections. Residents of U.S. states can vote in both primary and general Presidential elections, unless other restrictions set forth below apply.
Your Basic Rights as a Voter
If you meet the basic qualifications — you are a U.S. citizen and at least 18 years of age — then, as a general rule, you have the right to vote in the United States regardless of race, religion, disability or sexual orientation.
However, there are certain situations that may prohibit you from voting, even if you meet the basic qualifications described above. In some states, you lose your right to vote while you are incarcerated; in others, you permanently lose your voting privileges upon receiving a felony conviction. In a few states, you never lose your right to vote, even while you are serving a jail sentence.
Likewise, depending on where you live, you may be prohibited from voting if you are deemed “mentally incompetent” by a court. Continue reading about the voting rights in each state to learn more about felony and other restrictions.
Voter Registration
How to Register to Vote in Each State and Territory
The voter registration process varies by state and territory, as do the ways to confirm you have been registered and the consequences of providing inaccurate information in the registration process. Learn about registering to vote by reviewing each state’s and territory’s registration process in the table below.
| Location | Ways to Register | Where to Confirm You Are Registered to Vote | Penalties for Providing False or Inaccurate Information | How to Get a Voter Registration Card | How to Change Your Voter Registration Information |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alabama | Online: https://www.alabamainteractive.org/sos/voter_registration/voterRegistrationWelcome.actionBy Mail: Download the application below: https://www.sos.alabama.gov/sites/default/files/voter-pdfs/nvra-2.pdf?_ga=2.94497884.1561412220.1598032925-824413456.1597695384 Fill it out with your information. Be sure to double check that the information is correct.Find the address for your local county Board of Registrars office on page 2 of the application.Print out the completed application, seal it in an envelope, add a first class stamp and mail it. Request a voter registration form by mail: Head over to this page: https://www.sos.alabama.gov/contact/online_voter_form_request?_ga=2.106105795.1561412220.1598032925-824413456.1597695384 Complete the requested fields.Verify the information is correct and click “Send Message” at the bottom of the page. In Person: Visit your local Board of Registrar’s office. Find it below: https://www.sos.alabama.gov/alabama-votes/board-of-registrars-all-counties?_ga=2.158951986.928861975.1600180682-824413456.1597695384 Visit the office and complete the application in person. Submit it to the office. | https://myinfo.alabamavotes.gov/VoterView/RegistrantSearch.do | Imprisonment up to five years | To get a voter ID card, you must be a registered voter and not already have a valid form of photo ID that would be accepted at the polls, such as a driver’s license or U.S. passport. For a list of identification options, view page 2 of this document: https://www.sos.alabama.gov/sites/default/files/voter-pdfs/candidate-resources/ApplicationForFreeALPhotoVoterIdCard.pdf To apply, complete the following application and submit it in person at your local Board of Registrations office, the Alabama Secretary of State’s Office or mobile locations: https://www.sos.alabama.gov/sites/default/files/voter-pdfs/candidate-resources/ApplicationForFreeALPhotoVoterIdCard.pdf | You can update your voter registration information by submitting a new voter registration application online, by mail or in person. |
| Alaska | Online: https://voterregistration.alaska.gov/ By Mail/Fax/EmailDownload the application below: https://www.elections.alaska.gov/doc/forms/C03-Fill-In.pdf Fill it out with your information. Be sure to double check that the information is correct.Find the address for your local county Elections Office on page 2 of the application.If mailing, print out the completed application, add a first class stamp and mail it. If you’re faxing it or emailing it, convert the completed application to a PDF, TIFF or JPEG file then find the contact information for your local office here https://www.elections.alaska.gov/contact-information/ to send it to. In Person: Find your local elections office here: https://www.elections.alaska.gov/Core/contactusandsitemap.php Visit the office and complete the application in person. Submit it to the office. | https://myvoterinformation.alaska.gov/ | Misdemeanor conviction | You should receive a voter registration card once your registration application is processed | You can update your registration online through Alaska’s online voter registration system https://voterregistration.alaska.gov/ OR By resubmitting a paper application https://www.elections.alaska.gov/doc/forms/C03-Fill-In.pdf |
| American Samoa | By Mail Download your application here: https://aselectionoffice.gov/Forms%20for%20dl/EO-01.pdf Fill out the application and be sure to double check that the information is accurate. Print out the completed application, seal it in an envelope, add a stamp to your envelope and mail it to the address listed on the top left corner of the application form. In Person: Visit the American Samoa Government office (find contact information here: https://www.doi.gov/oia/islands/americansamoa-offices). Obtain an application and fill it out. Submit it to the office. | ||||
| Arizona | Online: https://servicearizona.com/VoterRegistration/selectLanguage By Mail: Download the application below: https://azsos.gov/sites/default/files/20200417_AZ_Voter_Registration_Form_Printable_0.pdf Fill it out with your information. Be sure to double check that the information is correct.Find the address for your local county recorder’s office here: https://azsos.gov/county-election-info.Print out the completed application, seal it in an envelope, add a stamp to your envelope and mail it. Request a voter registration form by mail by contacting your local elections office https://azsos.gov/county-election-info In Person: Find your local elections office here: https://azsos.gov/county-election-info Visit the office and complete the application in person. Submit it to the office. | https://my.arizona.vote/PortalList.aspx | Class 6 felony conviction | You should receive your voter registration card by mail once your voter registration application is mailed within four to six weeks. | You should update your voter registration if you have legally changed your name, address or political affiliation. There are three ways to update your voter registration card:Online here: https://servicearizona.com/VoterRegistration/selectLanguage Via mail by downloading the following application and submitting it to your local county recorder’s office: https://azsos.gov/sites/default/files/20200417_AZ_Voter_Registration_Form_Printable_0.pdfIn person: Visit your local county recorder’s office. Find your local office here: https://azsos.gov/county-election-info You should receive your updated voter registration card within a month and a half. |
| Arkansas | By Mail:Download the application below: https://www.sos.arkansas.gov/uploads/elections/ArkansasVoterRegistrationApplication.pdf (English) https://www.sos.arkansas.gov/uploads/elections/voter_reg_ap_ar_spanish.pdf (Spanish)Fill it out with your information. Be sure to double check that the information is correct.Find the address for the Arkansas Secretary of State office on page 2 of the application.Print out the completed application, seal it in an envelope, add a stamp to your envelope and mail it. Request a voter registration form by mail by contacting your local elections office.Visit the following page: https://www.sos.arkansas.gov/elections/voter-information/voter-registration-information/request-for-a-voter-registration-application Fill out the required fields.Click “Submit.”In Person: Find your local elections office here: https://www.sos.arkansas.gov/uploads/elections/ARCountyClerks.pdf Visit the office and complete the application in person. Submit it to the office. | The only way to check your voter status is by contacting your local county clerk. Click here (https://www.sos.arkansas.gov/uploads/elections/ARCountyClerks.pdf) to find the contact information for all county clerk offices in Arkansas. | Fine of up to $10,000 and up to 10 years of imprisonment | You should receive your voter registration card once your voter registration application is processed. | If you have not voted in several elections, you may receive a notice from your county requesting an update in your voter registration. In that case, you must return the completed notice to your county clerk to update your registration. Otherwise, you must submit a new registration application to update your registration information. However, the county clerk must receive it no later than four days before an election to be eligible to cast a ballot for that election. |
| California | Online: https://covr.sos .ca.gov/ By Mail: Pick up an application at your local county elections office, library, DMV office or USPS, and mail it back to your local county elections office. Find your local county elections office using the map here: https://www.sos.ca.gov/elections/map In Person: Find your local county elections offices here: https://www.sos.ca.gov/elections/voting-resources/county-elections-offices/ Visit the office and complete the application in person.Submit it to the office. Request that your application is mailed to you Call (800) 345-8683 or email the division here: https://www.sos.ca.gov/elections/contact/email-elections-division/ | https://www.sos.ca.gov/elections/registration-status/ | Possible fines and imprisonment | California does not give voter ID cards. | You must update your registration if you have legally changed your name by re-registering online, by mail or in person. However, if you have changed addresses and updated it at the DMV, your voter registration should automatically be updated. |
| Colorado | Online: https://www.sos.state.co.us/voter/pages/pub/olvr/verifyNewVoter.xhtml By mail: Download the application below: https://www.sos.state.co.us/pubs/elections/vote/VoterRegFormEnglish.pdf Fill it out with your information. Be sure to double check that the information is correct. Find the address for your local county clerk and record office here: https://www.sos.state.co.us/pubs/elections/Resources/CountyElectionOffices.html. You can also mail it to the Colorado Department of State office, whose address is on page 2 of the application.Print out the completed application, seal it in an envelope, add a stamp to your envelope and mail it.In Person:Find your local state office: https://www.sos.state.co.us/pubs/elections/Resources/CountyElectionOffices.html Visit the office and complete the application in person. Submit it to the office. | https://www.sos.state.co. us/voter/pages/pub/olvr/findVoterReg.xhtml | Class 1 misdemeanor | You should receive a voter information card by mail or email about 20 days after your registration application has been processed. | To update your address or party affiliation, you can do so:Online: https://www.sos.state.co.us/pubs/elections/FAQs/VoterRegistrationFAQ.html Or re-submit a voter registration application: https://www.sos.state.co.us/pubs/elections/vote/VoterRegFormEnglish.pdf |
| Commonwealth of Northern Mariana Islands | By Mail: Download your application here when the registration period is open: https://www.votecnmi.gov.mp/downloads/registration_package-f.pdf Fill out the application and be sure to double check that the information is accurate. Print out the completed application, seal it in an envelope, add a stamp to your envelope and mail it to the Commonwealth Election Commission (find contact information here: https://www.votecnmi.gov.mp/contact). | https://www.votecnmi.gov.mp/voter/are-you-registered-to-vote | Fines up to $2,000 and imprisonment up to two years. | Information is not available. | You can make changes to your voter information by submitting a new voter registration application. |
| Connecticut | Online: https://voterregistration.ct.gov/OLVR/welcome.do By mail: Download the application below: https://portal.ct.gov/-/media/SOTS/ElectionServices/ElectForms/electforms/VoterRegCardEnglish2015pdf.pdf (English) https://portal.ct.gov/-/media/SOTS/ElectionServices/ElectForms/electforms/VoterRegCardSpanish2015pdf.pdf (Spanish) Fill it out with your information. Be sure to double check that the information is correct. Find the address for your local town clerk office here: https://portal.ct.gov/-/media/SOTS/ElectionServices/Town-Clerk/Town-Clerks-List.pdf Print out the completed application, seal it in an envelope, add a stamp to your envelope and mail it. You can also hand deliver it. In Person: Find your local town clerk office here: https://portal.ct.gov/-/media/SOTS/ElectionServices/Town-Clerk/Town-Clerks-List.pdf Visit the office and complete the application in person. Submit it. | https://portaldir.ct.gov/sots/LookUp.aspx | Fines up to $5,000 and up to five years in prison | Information is not available. | To change your name, address or party affiliation, you must complete a new voter registration application, which you can download here: https://portal.ct.gov/-/media/SOTS/ElectionServices/ElectForms/electforms/ED-671-En-8×10-No-code.pdf |
| District of Columbia | Online: https://vr.dcboe.org/213324797239968?agency_code=12 By mail/fax: Download the application below: https://www.dcboe.org/dcboe/media/PDFFiles/VRF-English-05242021.pdf Fill it out with your information. Be sure to double check that the information is correct. Print out the completed application, add a stamp to your envelope and mail it to the D.C. Board of Elections office listed on page 2 of the application. In Person: Visit the District of Columbia Board of Elections office at the following address:1015 Half Street, SE, Suite 750, Washington, D.C. 20003 Visit the office to obtain an application and fill it out. Submit it to the office. | https://www.dcboe.org/Voters/Register-To-Vote/Check-Voter-Registration-Status | Fines up to $10,000 and up to five years in jail | You should receive a voter registration card from the department once your application is processed. | You can update your address, name and party affiliation by submitting a new voter registration application. Access the form here: https://www.dcboe.org/dcboe/media/PDFFiles/VRF-English-05242021.pdf |
| Delaware | Online: https://ivote.de.gov/voterview/registrant/newregistrant By mail: Download the application below: https://elections.delaware.gov/pubs/VoterRegApplication.pdf Fill it out with your information. Be sure to double check that the information is correct. Find the address for your local town clerk office here: https://elections.delaware.gov/locations.shtml Print out the completed application, add a stamp to your envelope and mail it. In Person:Find your local elections office here: https://elections.delaware.gov/locations.shtmlVisit the office to obtain an application and fill it out. Submit it. | https://ivote.de.gov/voterview | Up to $200 in fines and up to two years in prison | You should receive a polling place card once your voter registration application is processed | You can update your registration by re-submitting your application online, by mail, at mobile registration events or in person at your local county elections office. |
| Florida | Online: https://registertovoteflorida.gov/ By Mail: Download the application below: https://dos.myflorida.com/media/703044/dsde39-english-042020-post-7066.pdf Fill it out with your information. Be sure to double check that the information is correct.Find the address for your local town clerk office on page 2 of the application.Print out the completed application, seal it in an envelope, add a stamp to your envelope and mail it. In personFind your local county elections office here: https://dos.elections.myflorida.com/supervisors/ Visit the office to obtain an application and fill it out. Submit it to the office. | https://registration.elections.myflorida.com/CheckVoterStatus | Fines up to $5,000 and up to five years in prison. | You should receive your voter registration card once your voter registration application is processed. | You can update your address, name and party affiliation by submitting a new voter registration. You can also call or email your county Supervisor of Elections to notify them of an address change. Search for your county Supervisor of Elections using the links found on this page: https://www.myfloridaelections.com/Contact-your-SOE |
| Georgia | Online: https://registertovote.sos.ga.gov/GAOLVR/welcometoga.do#no-back-button By Mail: Download the application below: https://registertovote.sos.ga.gov/GAOLVR/images/reg_form.pdfFill it out with your information. Be sure to double check that the information is correct. Find the mailing address on page 2 of the application.Print out the completed application, seal it in an envelope, add a stamp to your envelope and mail it. In person: Find your local county elections office here: https://elections.sos.ga.gov/Elections/countyelectionoffices.doVisit the office to obtain an application and fill it out. Submit it to the office. | https://www.mvp.sos.ga.gov/MVP/mvp.do | Felony with potential fines and imprisonment | You should receive a precinct card up to a month after your voter registration application. | To update your voter registration information, you can do so by writing to your local county board of registrars office or submitting a new voter registration application. Find contact information for your local board of registrars here: https://elections.sos.ga.gov/Elections/countyregistrars.do |
| Guam | Online: https://gec.guam.gov/register/ In Person: Visit the Guam Election Commission office. Find contact information here: https://gec.guam.gov/index.php/contact-the-gec/. Obtain an application and fill it out. Submit it to the office. | https://gec.guam.gov/validate/ | Information is not available. | Information is not available. | You can make changes to your voter information by submitting a new voter registration application. |
| Hawaii | Online: https://olvr.hawaii.gov/ By mail:Download the application below: https://elections.hawaii.gov/wp-content/uploads/Voter-Registration-and-Permanent-Absentee-Application_Form-Fillable.pdf Fill it out with your information. Be sure to double check that the information is correct.Find the mailing address for your county on page 2 of the application.Print out the completed application, seal it in an envelope, add a stamp and mail it. In person: Visit your local county elections office: County of Hawaii 25 Aupuni St. #1502 Hilo, HI 96720 County of Kauai 4386 Rice St. #101 Lihue, HI 96766 County of Maui 200 S. High St. Wailuku, HI 96793 City & County of Honolulu 530 S. King St. #100 Honolulu, HI 96813 Visit the office to obtain an application and fill it out. Submit it to the office. | https://olvr.hawaii.gov/ | Class C felony | Once your voter registration application is processed, you should receive a notification postcard, not an ID card. | You can update your voter registration online here: https://olvr.hawaii.gov/ You can also re-submit a voter registration application by mail or in person: https://elections.hawaii.gov/wp-content/uploads/Voter-Registration-and-Permanent-Absentee-Application_Form-Fillable.pdf |
| Idaho | Online: https://elections.sos.idaho.gov/ElectionLink/ElectionLink/ApplicationInstructions.aspx By mail: Download the application below: https://sos.idaho.gov/elect/VoterReg/voter_registration.pdf Fill it out with your information. Be sure to double check that the information is correct.Find the mailing address on page 2 of the application. Print out the completed application, seal it in an envelope, add a stamp to your envelope and mail it. In person: Find your local county elections office here: https://idahovotes.gov/county-clerks/ Visit the office to obtain an application and fill it out. Submit it to the office. | https://elections.sos.idaho.gov/ElectionLink/ElectionLink/VoterSearch.aspx | Fines up to $50,000 and imprisonment | To get your registration card, you must visit one of the following locations: A county city hall or the DMV. Find a list of counties here: https://www.idaho.gov/counties/ Find your local DMV using the map here: https://itd.idaho.gov/dmv-maps/ | You can update your voter registration registration by re-submitting your voter registration application. |
| Illinois | Online: https://ova.elections.il.gov/Step0.aspxBy mail: Download the application below: https://www.illinois.gov/hfs/SiteCollectionDocuments/sber19.pdf Fill it out with your information. Be sure to double check that the information is correct. Print out the completed application, seal it in an envelope, add a stamp to your envelope and mail it to the Chicago Elections Office or Springfield Office: Springfield Office 2329 S. MacArthur Blvd. Springfield, IL 62704 Chicago Office 100 W. Randolph, Suite 14-100, Chicago, IL 60601 In person: Visit your local elections office. Search for locations in your county here: https://elections.il.gov/electionoperations/electionauthorities.aspxObtain an application and fill it out. Submit it to the office. | https://ova.elections.il.gov/RegistrationLookup.aspx | Fines and imprisonment | You should receive your registration card within a few weeks of submitting your voter registration application | To update your voter registration, re-submit your voter registration application online, by mail or in person. |
| Indiana | Online: https://indianavoters.in.gov/ By Mail: Download the application below: https://forms.in.gov/Download.aspx?id=9341 (English) https://forms.in.gov/Download.aspx?id=9455 (Spanish) Fill it out with your information. Be sure to double check that the information is correct. Find the mailing address on page 2 of the application.Print out the completed application, seal it in an envelope, add a stamp to your envelope and mail it. In person: Find your local county elections office here: https://www.in.gov/core/find_agency.html#sos Visit the office to obtain an application and fill it out. Submit it to the office. | https://indianavoters.in.gov/ Or Call 1-866-IN-1-VOTE. | Fines up to $10,000 and up to three years in jail | You should receive a voter registration card in the mail once your application is processed. | You can update your voter registration information online here: https://indianavoters.in.gov/ You can also re-submit a new registration application by mail or in person at your local county clerk’s office (find a list of office locations here: https://www.in.gov/courts/files/court-directory.pdf), license branch (use the interactive map to find a branch near you: https://www.in.gov/bmv/branch-locations-and-hours/bmv-branch-map/), WorkOne center (refer to the map here to find an office near you: https://www.in.gov/dwd/WorkOne/locations.html) or Department of Health office (find a list of locations here: https://www.in.gov/health/contact-and-information/contact-us/) |
| Iowa | Online: https://mymvd.iowadot.gov/Account/Login?ReturnUrl=%2fVoterRegistration By Mail: Download the application below: https://sos.iowa.gov/elections/pdf/voteapp.pdf Fill it out with your information. Be sure to double check that the information is correct. Find your local County Auditor/Commissioner of Elections office here: https://sos.iowa.gov/elections/auditors/auditorslist.html. Print out the completed application, seal it in an envelope, add a stamp to your envelope and mail it. In person: Find your local County Auditor/Commissioner of Elections office here: https://sos.iowa.gov/elections/auditors/auditorslist.html Visit the office to obtain an application and fill it out. Submit it to the office. | https://sos.iowa.gov/elections/voterreg/regtovote/search.aspx | Fines up to $7,500 and imprisonment up to five years | You should receive your voter registration card within two weeks. | You can update your voter registration online, by mail or in person by submitting a new registration application, or by completing a new online voter registration. |
| Kansas | Online: https://www.kdor.ks.gov/apps/voterreg/default.aspx By Mail: Download the application below: https://sos.ks.gov/forms/Elections/voterregistration.pdf Fill it out with your information. Be sure to double check that the information is correct. Find your local county clerk’s office on page 2. Print out the completed application, seal it in an envelope, add a stamp to your envelope and mail it. In person: Find your local County Auditor/Commissioner of Elections office here: https://www.sos.ks.gov/elections/county_election_officers.aspxVisit the office to obtain an application and fill it out. Submit it to the office. | https://myvoteinfo.voteks.org/VoterView/ | Up to 17 months in prison. | To request your voter registration card, contact your local county clerk’s office. You can find contact information for county clerk’s offices in this spreadsheet: https://www.sos.ks.gov/elections/county_election_officers_all.aspx | If you have a change in name, address or party affiliation, you must re-register to vote by completing the application online, in person or by mail. |
| Kentucky | Online: https://vrsws.sos.ky.gov/ovrweb/ By Mail: Download the application below: https://elect.ky.gov/registertovote/Documents/SBE%2001%20406%20Mail%20In%20Voter%20Registration%20Application.pdf Fill it out with your information. Be sure to double check that the information is correct.Find your local county clerk’s office here: https://elect.ky.gov/About-Us/Pages/County-Clerks.aspx Print out the completed application, seal it in an envelope, add a stamp to your envelope and mail it. In personFind your local county clerk here: https://elect.ky.gov/About-Us/Pages/County-Clerks.aspx Visit the office to obtain an application and fill it out. Submit it to the office. | https://vrsws.sos.ky.gov/VIC/ | Fines and imprisonment up to five years | You should receive a voter registration card when your voter registration application is processed. | You can update your voter registration online here: https://vrsws.sos.ky.gov/ovrweb/ |
| Louisiana | Online: https://www.sos.la.gov/ElectionsAndVoting/Pages/OnlineVoterRegistration.aspx?Referrer=https://www.sos.la.gov/ElectionsAndVoting/RegisterToVote/Pages/default.aspx By Mail: Download the application below: https://www.sos.la.gov/ElectionsAndVoting/PublishedDocuments/ApplicationToRegisterToVote.pdf Fill it out with your information. Be sure to double check that the information is correct. Find your local Registrar of Voters Office on page 3 of the application.Print out the completed application, seal it in an envelope, add a stamp to your envelope and mail it. In Person: Find your local Registrar of Voters Office here: https://voterportal.sos.la.gov/registrar You can also register to vote at several government offices, such as: The Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles (find office locations here: https://offices.omv.la.gov/) Louisiana Department of Children and Family Services (find office locations here: https://www.dcfs.louisiana.gov/directory) WIC offices (find office locations here: https://ldh.la.gov/index.cfm/directory/category/338); Medicaid offices (find office locations here: https://ldh.la.gov/index.cfm/directory/category/158); or Offices serving persons with disabilities such as the Deaf Action Centers and Independent Living Offices (find office locations here: https://ldh.la.gov/index.cfm/directory/category/217). Visit the office of your choosing to obtain an application and fill it out. Submit it to the office. | https://voterportal.sos.la.gov/ | Fines up to $2,000 and imprisonment up to 2 years. For second offenses, fines go up to $5,000 and imprisonment up to 5 years. | You should receive your voter registration card once your application is processed. If you need a duplicate, you can download your voter information card through the Secretary of State voter portal or by contacting your local Registrar of Voters Office. Find contact information for Registrar of Voters offices here: https://voterportal.sos.la.gov/registrar | You can update your voter registration information by completing the application and checking the “update voter registration” box. |
| Maine | By Mail: Download the application below: https://www.maine.gov/sos/cec/elec/upcoming/pdf/voterregcard20.pdf Fill it out with your information. Be sure to double check that the information is correct. Print out the completed application, seal it in an envelope, add a stamp to your envelope and mail it to the Maine Division of Elections. The address is written at the bottom of the application form. In person: Find your local county clerk here: https://www.maine.gov/sos/cec/elec/munic.html Visit the office to obtain an application and fill it out. Submit it to the office. Have your voter registration application mailed to you by contacting your town clerk: Find your local county clerk here: https://www.maine.gov/sos/cec/elec/munic.html | To find out about your voter status, contact the Elections Division of the Maine Secretary of State’s office via email cec.elections@maine.gov or by phone: 207-624-7650. | Information is not available. | You should receive a voter registration card once your voter registration application is processed. | To update your registration, you must resubmit your voter registration in person or by mail. |
| Maryland | Online: https://voterservices.elections.maryland.gov/OnlineVoterRegistration/InstructionsStep1 By Mail: Download the application below: https://elections.maryland.gov/voter_registration/documents/English_Internet_VRA.pdf (English) https://elections.maryland.gov/voter_registration/documents/Spanish_Internet_VRA.pdf (Spanish) Fill it out with your information. Be sure to double check that the information is correct.Find your local county clerk’s office on page 3 of the application form.Print out the completed application, seal it in an envelope, add a stamp to your envelope and mail it to the clerk’s office. In personFind your local county clerk here: https://elections.maryland.gov/about/county_boards.html Visit the office to obtain an application and fill it out. Submit it to the office. | https://voterservices.elections.maryland.gov/VoterSearch | Fines up to $1,000 and imprisonment up to five years. | You should receive your voter notification card once your application is processed. | You can update your voter registration information by submitting a new application or writing to your local board of elections directly with the new information. |
| Massachusetts | Online: https://www.sec.state.ma.us/OVR/Pages/CheckEligibility.aspx?&Action=Register By Mail: 1. Find your application below: https://www.sec.state.ma.us/divisions/elections/download/voter-registration-forms/voter-registration_English.pdf (English) https://www.sec.state.ma.us/divisions/elections/download/voter-registration-forms/voter-registration_Spanish.pdf (Spanish) 2. Fill it out with your information. Be sure to double check that the information is correct. 3. Find your local county circuit clerk’s office on page 2 of the application form. 4. Print out the completed application, add a stamp to your envelope and mail it to the county clerk. | https://www.sec.state.ma.us/VoterRegistrationSearch/MyVoterRegStatus.aspx | Fines up to $10,000 and imprisonment up to five years | Information is not available. | You can update your voter registration information online here: https://www.sec.state.ma.us/ovr/ You can also update it by completing a new voter registration application and submitting it in person or by mail. |
| Michigan | Online: https://mvic.sos.state.mi.us/RegisterVoter/Index By Mail: 1. Download the application below: https://www.michigan.gov/mdhhs/-/media/Project/Websites/mdhhs/Assistance-Programs/WIC-Media/110A_Voter_Reg_Form_287872_7.pdf?rev=7712eb485e4b45eba560cf58e9340b21&hash=3635C38CDB48F155D947A1A80D40AC55 2. Fill it out with your information. Be sure to double check that the information is correct. 3. Find your local county clerk’s office here: https://mvic.sos.state.mi.us/Voter/Index 4. Print out the completed application, seal it in an envelope, add a stamp to your envelope and mail it to the clerk. In Person: Visit a county clerk’s office, (find locations here: https://www.michigan.gov/sos/elections/election-results-and-data/candidate-listings-and-election-results-by-county) or voter registration drive. Obtain an application, fill it out, and submit it to the office. | https://mvic.sos.state.mi.us/Voter/Index | Potential fines and imprisonment | You will receive your voter notification card once your application is processed. | You can update your voter registration information here: https://mvic.sos.state.mi.us/RegisterVoter/Index You can also do it in person or via mail by submitting a new voter registration application. |
| Mississippi | By Mail: Download the application below: https://www.sos.ms.gov/content/documents/elections/Voter_Registration.pdf Fill it out with your information. Be sure to double check that the information is correct.Find your local county circuit clerk’s office on page 2 of the application form. Print out the completed application, add a stamp to your envelope and mail it. In person: Find your county elections here: https://www.sos.ms.gov/elections-voting/county-election-information Visit the office to obtain an application and fill it out. Submit it. | https://www.yallvote.sos.ms.gov/ | Fines up to $5,000 and imprisonment up to five years | You can only request a voter registration card if you do not have any acceptable form of photo ID. You must also be a registered voter to qualify. Visit your local Circuit Clerk’s Office (find office information here: https://courts.ms.gov/trialcourts/circuitcourt/circuitclerks.pdf) with one form of acceptable ID (view the list here: https://msvoterid.ms.gov/Pages/VoterIDAcceptID.htm ) and complete the application. | You can update your voter registration online here: https://www.msegov.com/sos/voter_registration/home/Search You can also do it in person or via mail by submitting a new voter registration application. |
| Missouri | Onlinehttps://s1.sos.mo.gov/elections/voterregistration/ By MailFind your county-specific application here: https://s1.sos.mo.gov/elections/voterregistration/home/print Select your county from the dropdown menu. Fill out the application and be sure to double check that the information is correct.Find your local county clerk office address on page 2 of the application form.Print out the completed application, seal it in an envelope, add a stamp to your envelope and mail it. In Person: Find your local county clerk’s office here: https://www.sos.mo.gov/elections/goVoteMissouri/pickupmailVisit the office to obtain an application and fill it out. Submit it. Request that the application be mailed to you. Visit this page: https://s1.sos.mo.gov/elections/goVoteMissouri/request Fill out the required fields and click “submit.” | https://s1.sos.mo.gov/elections/voterlookup/ | Fines up to $10,000 and five years of imprisonment | You should receive your voter registration card after voting for the first time. | You can update your voter registration by contacting your local elections office. If you move to a location outside of your election jurisdiction, you’ll have to submit a new voter registration. |
| Minnesota | Online: https://mnvotes.sos.state.mn.us/VoterRegistration/VoterRegistrationMain.aspx By Mail: 1. Download your application: https://www.sos.state.mn.us/media/1587/minnesota-voter-registration-application.pdf (English) https://www.sos.state.mn.us/media/5043/spanish-voter-registration-application.pdf (Spanish) 2. Fill it out and make sure the information is accurate. 3. Find out the mailing address on page 2 of the application. 4. Print it out, seal it in an envelope, add a stamp to the envelope and mail it to the office. In Person: Find your local county clerk’s office here: https://www.sos.state.mn.us/elections-voting/find-county-election-office/ Visit the office to obtain an application and fill it out. Submit it to the office. | https://mnvotes.sos.state.mn.us/VoterStatus.aspx | Fine up to $10,000 and five years imprisonment | Information is not available. | You can update your registration by submitting a new application. Pay special attention to the “Registration Updates” section. You can also do it online here: https://mnvotes.sos.state.mn.us/VoterRegistration/VoterRegistrationMain.aspx |
| Montana | By Mail: Download your application here: https://sosmt.gov/Portals/142/Elections/Forms/Voter_Registration_Application.pdf Fill out the application and be sure to double check that the information is correct.Find your Election Administrator’s office on page 2 of the application. Print out the completed application, seal it in an envelope, add a stamp to your envelope and mail it. In PersonFind your local Election Administrator’s office here: https://sosmt.gov/Portals/142/Elections/Forms/electionadministrators.pdfVisit the office to obtain an application and fill it out. Submit it to the office. | https://app.mt.gov/voterinfo/ | Fines and imprisonment | You should receive a voter registration card once you are registered. | You can update your registration by submitting a new voter registration and checking the update box that applies. |
| Nebraska | Online: https://www.nebraska.gov/apps-sos-voter-registration/ By Mail: Download your application here: https://sos.nebraska.gov/sites/sos.nebraska.gov/files/doc/vr-fillable.pdf (English) https://sos.nebraska.gov/sites/sos.nebraska.gov/files/doc/svr-fillable.pdf (Spanish) Fill out the application and be sure to double check that the information is correct. Find your county elections office on page 2 of the application. Print out the completed application, add a stamp to your envelope and mail it. In Person: Find your local county elections office here: https://sos.nebraska.gov/elections/election-official-contact-information Visit the office to obtain an application and fill it out. Submit it. | https://www.votercheck.necvr.ne.gov/voterview | Class 4 felony with fines up to $10,000 and 2 years imprisonment with 12 months post-release supervision | No information is available. | You can update your voter registration online here: https://www.nebraska.gov/apps-sos-voter-registration/ You can also re-submit a voter registration application in person or by mail: https://sos.nebraska.gov/sites/sos.nebraska.gov/files/doc/vr-fillable.pdf |
| Nevada | Online: https://www.nvsos.gov/sosvoterservices/Registration/Step0.aspx By Mail: Download your application here: https://www.nvsos.gov/SOSVoterRegForm/ Fill out the application and be sure to double check that the information is correct. Find your county elections office on page 2 of the application. Print out the completed application, seal it in an envelope, add a stamp to your envelope and mail it to the elections office. In Person: Find your local county elections office here: https://www.nvsos.gov/sos/elections/voters/county-clerk-contact-information Visit the office to obtain an application and fill it out. Submit it to the office. | https://www.nvsos.gov/votersearch/ | Felony with a fine of up to $20,000. | You should receive a voter registration card once your application is processed. | You can update your voter information online here: https://www.nvsos.gov/sosvoterservices/Registration/Step0.aspx You can also do so by submitting a new voter registration application. |
| New Hampshire | In Person: Find your local town clerk office: https://www.sos.nh.gov/elections/register-vote/town-or-city-clerks-office Visit the office to obtain an application and fill it out. Submit it to the office. By Mail: Note that this is only an option if you are registering as an absentee voter. 1 – Request an absentee ballot by by contacting your town clerk (search for your town clerk on this page: https://app.sos.nh.gov/statelistclerkandpolling) or the Secretary of State’s office (view contact information here: https://sos.nh.gov/corporation-ucc-securities/corporation/contact/) Download your application: https://www.whitehouse.gov/sites/whitehouse.gov/files/NewHampshireVoterRegistrationForm.pdf 2 – Fill out the application and be sure to double check that the information is correct. 3 – Find your county elections office on page 2 of the application. 4 – Print out the completed application, seal it in an envelope, add a stamp to your envelope and mail it to the office. | https://app.sos.nh.gov/voterinformation | Fine or imprisonment. | Information is not available. | You can update your voter information by submitting a new voter registration application in person or by mail. |
| New Jersey | Online: https://voter.svrs.nj.gov/register By Mail: Find the application specific to your county: https://www.state.nj.us/state/elections/voter-registration.shtml#vrf Fill out the application and be sure to double check that the information is correct.Find your county elections office on page 2 of the application. Print out the completed application, add a stamp to your envelope and mail it. In PersonFind your local county elections office here: https://www.state.nj.us/state/elections/county-eo.shtml Visit the office to obtain an application and fill it out. Submit it. | https://voter.svrs.nj.gov/registration-check | Fine up to $15,000 and imprisonment up to five years | Information is not available. | You can change your voter information online through the MVC website or by submitting a new voter registration application. |
| New York | Online: https://voterreg.dmv.ny.gov/MotorVoter/ By Mail: Download your application here: https://www.elections.ny.gov/NYSBOE/download/voting/voteregform-eng-fillable.pdf (English) https://www.elections.ny.gov/NYSBOE/download/voting/voteregform-span-fillable.pdf (Spanish) Fill out the application and be sure to double check that the information is correct. Find your county Board of Elections office on page 2 of the application. Print out the completed application, seal it in an envelope, add a stamp to your envelope and mail it to the office. In Person: Find your local county board of elections office here: https://www.elections.ny.gov/CountyBoards.html Visit the office to obtain an application and fill it out. Submit it to the office. | https://voterlookup.elections.ny.gov/ | Fines up to $5,000 and imprisonment up to four years | Information is not available. | You can make changes to your voter information by submitting a new voter registration application. |
| North Carolina | Online: https://payments.ncdot.gov/ By Mail: Download your application here: https://s3.amazonaws.com/dl.ncsbe.gov/Voter_Registration/NCVoterRegForm_06W.pdf Fill out the application and be sure to double check that the information is correct. Find your local County Board office on page 3 of the application. Print out the completed application, add a stamp to your envelope and mail it. In Person: Find your local county elections office here: https://vt.ncsbe.gov/BOEInfo/ Visit the office to obtain an application and fill it out. Submit it. | https://vt.ncsbe.gov/RegLkup/ | Class 1 Felony. | Information is not available. | You can make changes to your voter information online here: https://payments.ncdot.gov/ You can also do it by submitting a new voter registration application. |
| North Dakota | North Dakota does not require voter registration. Anyone wishing to vote must only provide a form of identification. Find all acceptable forms of ID here: https://vote.nd.gov/PortalListDetails.aspx?ptlhPKID=71&ptlPKID=7 | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Ohio | Online: https://olvr.ohiosos.gov/ By Mail: Download your application here: https://www.sos.state.oh.us/globalassets/elections/forms/vr_form_04-2015.pdf Fill out the application and be sure to double check that the information is correct. Find your county Boards of Elections office here: https://www.ohiosos.gov/elections/elections-officials/county-boards-of-elections-directory/ Print out the completed application, seal it in an envelope, add a stamp to your envelope and mail it. In Person: Find your county Boards of Elections office: https://www.ohiosos.gov/elections/elections-officials/county-boards-of-elections-directory/ Visit the office to obtain an application and fill it out. Submit it to the office. | https://voterlookup.ohiosos.gov/voterlookup.aspx | Class 5 Felony | Information is not available. | You can make changes to your voter information online here: https://olvr.ohiosos.gov/ You can also do it by submitting a new voter registration application. |
| Oklahoma | Online: https://okvoterportal.okelections.us/Home/RegWizard By Mail: Download your application here: https://oklahoma.gov/content/dam/ok/en/elections/forms/voter-registration-application.pdf Fill out the application and be sure to double check that the information is correct.Find the mailing address on the 3rd page of the application form. Print out the completed application, seal it in an envelope, add a stamp to your envelope and mail it. In Person: Find your local county elections office here: https://oklahoma.gov/elections/about-us/county-election-boards.html Visit the office to obtain an application and fill it out. Submit it to the office. | https://www.ok.gov/elections/OVP.html | Fines up to $50,000 and up to five years in prison | You should receive your voter registration card once your voter registration application is processed. | You can make changes to your voter information online here: https://www.ok.gov/elections/OVP.html You can also do it by submitting a new voter registration application. |
| Oregon | Online: https://secure.sos.state.or.us/orestar/vr/register.do?lang=eng&source=SOS By Mail: Download your application here: https://sos.oregon.gov/elections/Documents/SEL500.pdf Fill out the application and be sure to double check that the information is correct. Find the mailing address on page 2 of the application form. Print out the completed application, seal it in an envelope, add a stamp to your envelope and mail it. In Person: Find your local county elections office: https://sos.oregon.gov/elections/Pages/countyofficials.aspx Visit the office to obtain an application and fill it out. Submit it to the office. | https://secure.sos.state.or.us/orestar/vr/showVoterSearch.do?lang=eng&source=SOS | Fines up to $125,000 and five years in prison. | You should receive your voter registration card once your voter registration application is processed. | You can make changes to your voter information online here: https://secure.sos.state.or.us/orestar/vr/showVoterSearch.do?lang=eng&source=SOS You can also do it by submitting a new voter registration application. |
| Pennsylvania | Online: https://www.pavoterservices.pa.gov/pages/VoterRegistrationApplication.aspx (English) By Mail: Download your application here: https://www.votespa.com/Resources/Documents/Voter_Registration_Application_English.pdf Fill out the application and be sure to double check that the information is correct. Find the mailing address for your county elections office on page 2 of the application form. Print out the completed application, seal it in an envelope, add a stamp to your envelope and mail it. In Person: Find your local county elections office here: https://www.votespa.com/Resources/Pages/Contact-Your-Election-Officials.aspx Visit the office to obtain an application and fill it out. Submit it to the office. | https://www.pavoterservices.pa.gov/pages/voterregistrationstatus.aspx | Up to $15,000 and seven years in prison | You should receive your voter registration card once your voter registration application is processed. | You can make changes to your voter information online here: https://www.pavoterservices.pa.gov/Pages/VoterRegistrationApplication.aspx You can also do it by submitting a new voter registration application. |
| Puerto Rico | In Person: You must apply in person at your local elections office. Find your nearest location here: https://www.ceepur.org/directorio.htm Once you arrive, request an application, fill it out and submit it. | https://consulta.ceepur.org/ | Fines up to $500 for each false piece of information and/or imprisonment up to one year. | You should receive your voter registration card once your voter registration application is processed. | Information is not available. |
| Rhode Island | Online: https://vote.sos.ri.gov/VoterRegistration/VoterRegistration?step=0 By Mail: Download your application here: https://elections.ri.gov/sites/g/files/xkgbur756/files/2022-02/ri_registration_form_eng_rev_6-26-2020.pdf (English) https://elections.ri.gov/publications/Election_Publications/Voter_Registration/RI_Registration_Form_Spanish_5-15-19.pdf (Spanish) Fill out the application and be sure to double check that the information is correct. Find the mailing address for your town hall office on page 2 of the application form. Print out the completed application, seal it in an envelope, add a stamp to your envelope and mail it. In Person: Find your local county elections on page 2 of this application: https://elections.ri.gov/sites/g/files/xkgbur756/files/2022-02/ri_registration_form_eng_rev_6-26-2020.pdf Visit the office to obtain an application and fill it out. Submit it. | https://vote.sos.ri.gov/Home/UpdateVoterRecord?ActiveFlag=0 | You can request a voter registration card if you don’t have any other valid form of acceptable photo ID. You must contact your local county elections office to receive one. | You can make changes to your voter information online here: https://vote.sos.ri.gov/VoterRegistration/VoterRegistration?step=0 You can also do it by submitting a new voter registration application. | |
| South Carolina | Online: https://info.scvotes.sc.gov/eng/ovr/start.aspx By Mail: Download your application here: https://scvotes.gov/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/SEC-FRM-1301-202305-VR-by-Mail-web-1.pdf Fill out the application and be sure to double check that the information is correct. Find the mailing address for your local Board of Voter Registration & Elections office here: https://scvotes.gov/contact/county-voter-registration-election-offices/ Print out the completed application, seal it in an envelope, add a stamp to your envelope and mail it. In Person: Find your county elections office: https://scvotes.gov/contact/county-voter-registration-election-offices/ Visit the office to obtain an application and fill it out. Submit it to the office. | https://info.scvotes.sc.gov/eng/voterinquiry/VoterInformationRequest.aspx | Potential fines and imprisonment | You should receive your voter registration card once your voter registration application is processed. | You can make changes to your voter information online here: https://info.scvotes.sc.gov/eng/ovr/start.aspx You can also do it by submitting a new voter registration application. If you are notifying the department of a change of address within the same county, download the form here and mail, fax or scan it over to your county voter registration office: https://scvotes.gov/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/changeofaddress.pdf |
| South Dakota | By Mail: Download your application here: https://sdsos.gov/elections-voting/assets/VoterRegistrationFormFillable.pdf Fill out the application and be sure to select your county at the top of the form. Print out the completed application, seal it in an envelope, add a stamp to your envelope and mail it to your local county auditor office. Find the list here: https://vip.sdsos.gov/CountyAuditors.aspx In Person: Find your local county auditor’s office.Visit the office to obtain an application and fill it out. Submit it to the office. | https://vip.sdsos.gov/VIPLogin.aspx | Up to $4,000 in fines and 2 years of imprisonment | Information is not available. | You can make changes to your voter information by submitting a new voter registration application. |
| Tennessee | Online: https://ovr.govote.tn.gov/ By Mail: Download your application here: https://sos-tn-gov-files.s3.amazonaws.com/forms/ss-3010.pdf Fill out the application and be sure to double check that the information is accurate. Find your local County Elections Commissions office here: https://tnsos.org/elections/election_commissions.php Print out the completed application, seal it in an envelope, add a stamp to your envelope and mail it. In Person: Find your local County Election Commissions here: https://tnsos.org/elections/election_commissions.php Visit the office to obtain an application and fill it out. Submit it to the office. | https://tnmap.tn.gov/voterlookup/ | Up to $5,000 in fines and 12 years in imprisonment | You should receive your voter registration card once your voter registration application is processed. To get a duplicate copy, you can request one in writing to your local county election commission office. Find contact information for your local office here: https://tnsos.org/elections/election_commissions.php | You can make changes to your voter information online here: https://ovr.govote.tn.gov/ You can also do it by submitting a new voter registration application. Keep in mind that a change in county will require a new voter registration. |
| Texas | Online https://webservices.sos.state.tx.us/vrapp/index.asp By Mail: Download your application here: https://www.sos.state.tx.us/elections/forms/vr-with-receipt.pdf Fill out the application and be sure to double check that the information is accurate.Find your local County Voter Registration Office here: https://www.sos.texas.gov/elections/voter/votregduties.shtml Print out the completed application, add a stamp to your envelope and mail it. In Person: Find your local county voter registration office: https://www.sos.texas.gov/elections/voter/votregduties.shtml Visit the office to obtain an application and fill it out. Submit it. | https://teamrv-mvp.sos.texas.gov/MVP/mvp.do | Up to 180 days in prison and $2,000 in fines. | You should receive your voter registration card once your voter registration application is processed. | You can make changes to your voter information by notifying your local Voter Registrar office in writing. You can also: Make the correction on your voter registration certificate and return it to the office. Complete a new voter registration application. Process your change here (if it’s a change in address within the same county): https://txapps.texas.gov/tolapp/sos/SOSACManager |
| U.S. Virgin Islands | In Person: You must apply in person at your local elections office. Find your nearest location here: https://www.vivote.gov/contact-us Once you arrive, request an application, fill it out and submit it. | https://www.vivote.gov/voters/lookup | Information is not available. | Information is not available. | Information is not available. |
| Utah | Online: https://secure.utah.gov/voterreg/login.html?selection=REGISTER By Mail: Download your application here: https://voteinfo.utah.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/42/2020/05/Voter-Registration-Form5-20-4.pdf (English) https://elections.utah.gov/Media/Default/Forms/English-Spanish%20Voter%20Registration%20Form.pdf (Spanish) Fill out the application and be sure to double check that the information is accurate.Find your local county clerk’s office here: https://elections.utah.gov/election-resources/county-clerks Print out the completed application, seal it in an envelope, add a stamp to your envelope and mail it to your local county clerk’s office or the Office of the Utah Lieutenant Governor (find contact information here: https://sf.gov.utah.gov/Contact-LtGov/s/) In Person: Find your local county clerk’s office here: https://elections.utah.gov/election-resources/county-clerks Visit the office to obtain an application and fill it out. Submit it to the office. | https://votesearch.utah.gov/voter-search/search/search-by-voter/voter-info | Potential fines and imprisonment | Information is not available. | You can make changes to your voter information online here:https://secure.utah.gov/voterreg/login.html?selection=UPDATE You can also do it by submitting a new voter registration application. |
| Vermont | Online: https://olvr.vermont.gov/ By MailDownload your application here: https://outside.vermont.gov/dept/sos/Elections%20Division/voters/voterapplication.pdf Fill out the application and be sure to double check that the information is accurate.Find your local county clerk’s office here: https://sos.vermont.gov/elections/town-clerks/ Print out the completed application, seal it in an envelope, add a stamp to your envelope and mail it. In PersonFind your local town or county clerk’s office here: https://sos.vermont.gov/elections/town-clerks/ Visit the office to obtain an application and fill it out. Submit it to the office. | https://mvp.vermont.gov/ | Fines up to $10,000 and imprisonment up to 15 years | Vermont does not have voter registration cards. | You can make changes to your voter information online here: https://olvr.vermont.gov/ |
| Virginia | Online: https://www.elections.virginia.gov/citizen-portal/ By Mail: Download your application here: https://www.elections.virginia.gov/media/formswarehouse/veris-voter-registration/applications/Voter-Registration-Application.pdfFill out the application and be sure to double check that the information is accurate. Find your local registrar’s office here: https://vote.elections.virginia.gov/VoterInformation/PublicContactLookup Print out the completed application, add a stamp to your envelope and mail it. In Person: Find your local voter registration office here: https://vote.elections.virginia.gov/voterinformation/publiccontactlookup Visit the office to obtain an application and fill it out. Submit it. | https://vote.elections.virginia.gov/VoterInformation/Lookup/status | Fines up to $2,000 and imprisonment up to 10 years | You should receive your voter registration card once your voter registration application is processed. | You can make changes to your voter information online here: https://vote.elections.virginia.gov/VoterInformation You can also do it by submitting a new voter registration application. |
| Washington | Online: https://olvr.votewa.gov/ By Mail: Download your application here: https://www.sos.wa.gov/_assets/elections/vrf_print_2020_english.pdf Fill out the application and be sure to double check that the information is accurate. Find your county clerk’s office on page 2 of the application form. Print out the completed application, seal it in an envelope, add a stamp to your envelope and mail it. In Person: Find your local county elections office: https://www.sos.wa.gov/elections/auditors/ Visit the office to obtain an application and fill it out. Submit it to the office. | https://voter.votewa.gov/WhereToVote.aspx | Class C Felony with fines up to $10,000 and five years of imprisonment | You should receive your voter registration card once your voter registration application is processed. | You can make changes to your voter information online here: https://voter.votewa.gov/WhereToVote.aspx |
| West Virginia | Online: https://ovr.sos.wv.gov/Register/Landing By Mail: Download your application here: https://sos.wv.gov/FormSearch/Elections/Voter/mail%20in%20voter%20registration%20application.pdf Fill out the application and be sure to double check that the information is accurate.Find your county clerk’s office here: https://sos.wv.gov/elections/Pages/MuniContacts.aspx Print out the completed application, seal it in an envelope, add a stamp to your envelope and mail it. In Person: Find your local county clerk: https://sos.wv.gov/elections/Pages/MuniContacts.aspx Visit the office to obtain an application and fill it out. Submit it to the office. | https://services.sos.wv.gov/Elections/Voter/AmIRegisteredToVote | Potential imprisonment and fines | You should receive your voter registration card once your voter registration application is processed. Usually, the quickest way to get it is by submitting your voter registration application in person at your local county clerk’s office. Find your county clerk’s office here: https://sos.wv.gov/elections/Pages/MuniContacts.aspx | You can make changes to your voter information online here: https://ovr.sos.wv.gov/Register/Landing You can also do it by submitting a new voter registration application. |
| Wisconsin | Online: https://myvote.wi.gov/en-US/VoterRegistration By Mail: Download your application here: https://elections.wi.gov/forms/el-131-fillable Fill out the application and be sure to double check that the information is accurate. Find your municipal clerk’s office here: https://myvote.wi.gov/en-us/My-Municipal-Clerk Print out the completed application, seal it in an envelope, add a stamp to your envelope and mail it to the office. In Person: Find your municipal clerk’s office here: https://myvote.wi.gov/en-us/My-Municipal-Clerk Visit the office to obtain an application and fill it out.Submit it to the office. | https://myvote.wi.gov/en-us/RegisterToVote | Fines up to $10,000 and three years of imprisonment | Wisconsin does not have voter registration cards. | You can make changes to your voter information online here: https://myvote.wi.gov/en-us/UpdateMyNameorAddress You can also do it by submitting a new voter registration application. |
| Wyoming | By Mail: Download your application here: https://sos.wyo.gov/Forms/Elections/General/VoterRegistrationForm.pdf Fill out the application and be sure to double check that the information is accurate.Find your county clerk’s office on the application.Print out the completed application, seal it in an envelope, add a stamp to your envelope and mail it to the clerk’s office. In Person: Find your local county clerk here: https://sos.wyo.gov/Elections/Docs/WYCountyClerks.pdf Visit the office to obtain an application and fill it out. Submit it to the office. | Contact your local county elections office. | Potential fines and imprisonment | Information is not available. | You can make changes to your voter information by submitting a new voter registration application. |
Election Calendars by State & Territory
To view the election calendar for your state or territory, see the list below. For local contact information, refer to your location in the section called “Voter Registration Information by State and Territory” beginning on this guide.
Voter Registration Information by State And Territory
Alabama
State website: https://www.sos.alabama.gov/alabama-votes
Eligibility
Who can register to vote?
To register to vote, you must be:
- A U.S. citizen
- An Alabama resident
- At least 18 years of age by Election Day.
Felony Restrictions
If you were barred from voting due to a disqualifying felony conviction, you must first complete all of the terms of your sentence before you can have your voting rights restored. You must then apply for a “Certificate of Eligibility to Register to Vote.” You can find more information by calling the Alabama Board of Pardons at 334-353-7771 or visiting their website here: https://paroles.alabama.gov/
Mental Capacity Restriction
If you have been declared “mentally incompetent” by a court, you will not be able to register to vote until this declaration is repealed by the court.
Registration Options
Easiest Way to Register
https://www.alabamainteractive.org/sos/voter_registration/voterRegistrationWelcome.action
Other Ways to Register
- By mail
- In person at local board of registrars, at the state or county office of any public assistance program, when obtaining or renewing a driver’s license or when applying for a library card at any county library and some city libraries
Refer to the section “How to Register to Vote in Each State and Territory” for more information on your voting options.
Where to Check Voter Status
https://myinfo.alabamavotes.gov/VoterView/RegistrantSearch.do
Absentee Ballot (Vote by Mail)
If you want to vote by absentee ballot, you must have a valid reason to do so and your ballot request will go through an approval process.
Deadline to Request an Absentee Ballot
The Absentee Election Manager must receive your absentee ballot application by the 5th day before Election Day.
Deadline to Submit an Absentee Ballot
If submitting by mail, the absentee ballot must be postmarked no later than the day before election day. The Absentee Election Manager office must receive your mail-in absentee ballot no later than noon on election day.
If hand delivered, you must submit your ballot to the Absentee Election Manager office by 5 p.m. on the day prior to the election.
How to Request an Absentee Ballot
- Visit https://www.sos.alabama.gov/alabama-votes/voter/absentee-voting and select your application.
- Option 1: Download and fill out the request form, then mail it to the Absentee Election Manager in your county. Find yours here: https://www.sos.alabama.gov/city-county-lookup/counties
- Option 2: Visit your local Absentee Election Manager office to request a ballot. Find your local Absentee Election Manager office here: https://www.sos.alabama.gov/city-county-lookup/absentee-election-manager
Voting Options
What to Bring
An acceptable form of photo identification, such as:
- Valid Alabama driver’s license (not expired or has been expired less than 60 days)
- Alabama Law Enforcement Agency Digital Driver’s License
- Valid Alabama Nondriver ID (not expired or has been expired less than 60 days)
- Alabama Law Enforcement Agency Digital Nondriver ID
- Valid Alabama Photo Voter ID Card
- Valid State-Issued ID (Alabama or any other state) Examples include:
- Valid AL Department of Corrections Release – Temporary ID (Photo Required)
- Valid AL Movement/Booking Sheet from Prison/Jail System (Photo Required)
- Valid Pistol Permit (Photo Required)
- Valid Federal-Issued ID
- Valid US passport
- Valid Employee ID from Federal Government, State of Alabama, County, Municipality, Board, or other entity of this state
- Valid student or employee ID from a public or private college or university in the State of Alabama (including postgraduate technical or professional schools)
- Valid student or employee ID issued by a state institution of higher learning in any other state
- Valid Military ID
- Valid Tribal ID
Find Your Election Day Voting Location
- Visit https://myinfo.alabamavotes.gov/VoterView/PollingPlaceSearch.do.
- Search for your polling place by voter information or residence address.
- Fill in the boxes and click “Search.”
Information on Early Voting
Alabama does not have early voting.
Contact Information
Find Local Contact Information
https://www.sos.alabama.gov/contact
State Contact Information
Phone: 334-242-7210 / 1 (800) 274-8683
Fax: 334-242-2444
Office of the Secretary of State Elections Division
PO Box 5616
Montgomery, AL 36103
Alaska
State website: https://elections.alaska.gov
Eligibility
Who can register to vote?
To register to vote, you must be:
- A U.S. citizen
- An Alaska resident
- At least 18 years of age or within 90 days of your 18th birthday.
Felony Restrictions
If you were barred from voting due to a disqualifying felony conviction, you must first complete all of the terms of your sentence before you can have your voting rights restored.
Mental Capacity Restriction
If you have been declared “mentally incompetent” by a court, you will not be able to register to vote until your voting rights are restored.
How to Register
Easiest Way to Register
https://voterregistration.alaska.gov/
Other Ways to Register
You can also register to vote by mail, fax, email or in person. Refer to the section “How to Register to Vote in Each State and Territory” for more information on your voting options.
Where to Check Voter Status
https://myvoterinformation.alaska.gov/
Absentee Ballot (Vote by Mail)
Alaska has no requirements for requesting a vote by mail ballot.
Deadline to Request an Absentee Ballot
When requesting an absentee ballot, your application must reach the Alaska Division of Elections no later than 10 days before Election Day.
Deadline to Submit an Absentee Ballot
Your ballot must be postmarked on or before Election Day.
How to Request an Absentee Ballot
- Visit https://absenteeballotapplication.alaska.gov/
- Option 1: Submit the request online.
- Option 2: Download and fill out the request form, then mail it to the Alaska Division of Elections office.
- Option 3: Send your application via email or fax to the office.
Voting Options
What to Bring
One of the following acceptable forms of photo identification:
- Voter ID Card
- Driver’s License
- State ID
- Other Photo ID
- Passport
- Hunting or Fishing License
- Other document with your name on it
- Current utility bill or paycheck, government check or bank statement or other government issued document with your name and address on it
Find Your Election Day Voting Location
- Visit https://myvoterinformation.alaska.gov/
- Log into your account to look up your polling place.
Information on Early Voting
Most early voting locations open beginning 15 days prior to Election Day. Some early and in-person absentee voting locations will have all district ballots, some will have a single district ballot for that community and some will have multiple district ballots available. Early voting is available for primary, general and statewide special elections.
Early votes cast through the Thursday before Election Day will be counted on Election Night after 8:00 PM. Early votes cast after the Thursday before Election Day will be counted on the 7th day after Election Day.
Find Early Voting Dates and Locations
https://www.elections.alaska.gov/Core/AKVoteEarly.php
Contact Information
Find Local Contact Information
https://www.elections.alaska.gov/Core/contactusandsitemap.php
American Samoa
State website: https://aselectionoffice.gov
Eligibility
Who can register to vote?
To register to vote, you must be:
- An American Samoa resident
- A U.S. citizen
- At least 18 years of age by Election Day.
You must register at least 30 days before Election Day.
Felony Restrictions
If you were barred from voting due to a disqualifying felony conviction, you must first complete all of the terms of your sentence before you can have your voting rights restored.
Mental Capacity Restriction
If you have been declared mentally incompetent by a court, you will not be able to register to vote until your voting rights are restored.
How to Register
Easiest Way to Register
Mail your voter registration application to the American Samoa Government here: https://aselectionoffice.gov/Forms%20for%20dl/EO-01.pdf
Other Ways to Register
You can also register to vote in person. Refer to the section “How to Register to Vote in Each State and Territory” for more information on your voting options.
Where to Check Voter Status
https://aselectionoffice.gov/status.php
Absentee Ballot (Vote by Mail)
In American Samoa, you need to have one of the following reasons to get an absentee ballot:
- You will be absent from the territory because you are:
- Employed in the service of the U.S. Government
- Employed in the service of the American Samoa Government
- A student at an institution of learning
- An absent uniformed services voter
- An overseas voter voting in the election for Delegate for the U.S. House of Representatives
- Traveling for medical treatment
- Traveling for military-related assignments
- Traveling for employment-related training, conference or assignments; or
- On vacation
- You are in the territory but absent from the district because of:
- Travel for military-related assignments
- Travel for employment-related training, conference or assignments
- Vacation
- Confinement in any hospital
- Confinement in any public institution
- Confinement at home because of illness or physical disability which will prevent you from attending the polls
- Any religious belief, ruling, doctrine, or standard which will prevent you from attending the polls
- Employment as an election official on election day
Deadline to Request an Absentee Ballot
In American Samoa, your request must be received no later than 4:30 p.m. the day before Election Day.
Deadline to Submit an Absentee Ballot
In American Samoa, your ballot must be returned no later than 1:30 p.m. on Election Day.
How to Request an Absentee Ballot
Visit: https://aselectionoffice.gov/node/6
- Download your absentee ballot here: https://aselectionoffice.gov/Forms%20for%20dl/FORM%20EO-08-REQUEST%20FOR%20ABSENTEE%20BALLOT%20rev2016.pdf and email to absentee@eo.as.gov.
- You can also visit the American Samoa Election Office to submit your request in person.
Voting Options
What to Bring
An acceptable form of photo identification such as:
- U.S. passport
- Voter ID card
- A government-issued photo ID AND birth certificate
Find Your Election Day Voting Location
https://aselectionoffice.gov/status.php
Contact Information
Find Local Contact Information
P.O. Box 3970
Pago Pago, American Samoa 96799
Phone: 1-684-699-3570
1-684-699-3571
Fax: 1-684-699-3574
Arizona
State website: https://azsos.gov/elections
Eligibility
Who can register to vote?
To register to vote, you must be:
- A U.S. citizen
- An Arizona resident
- At least 18 years of age by Election Day.
Felony Restrictions
If you were barred from voting due to a disqualifying felony conviction, you must first complete all of the terms of your sentence before you can have your voting rights restored.
Mental Capacity Restriction
If you have been adjudicated incapacitated by a court, you will not be able to register to vote until your voting rights are restored.
How to Register
Easiest Way to Register
https://servicearizona.com/VoterRegistration/selectLanguage
Other Ways to Register
You can also register to vote by mail or in person. Refer to the section “How to Register to Vote in Each State and Territory” for more information on your voting options.
Where to Check Voter Status
https://my.arizona.vote/PortalList.aspx
Absentee Ballot (Vote by Mail)
There are no requirements to vote by mail in Arizona. Voters can choose to sign up for the Active Early Voting List (AEVL) when they register to vote if they want to automatically receive a vote-by-mail ballot for every election or submit a one-time request for a vote-by-mail ballot.
Deadline to Request an Absentee Ballot
Counties will accept one-time ballot-by-mail requests beginning 4 months before Election Day and they are due no later than 11 days before Election Day.
Deadline to Submit an Absentee Ballot
Your ballot-by-mail must reach the Arizona Secretary of State office by 7 p.m. on Election Day. You may return it by mail or in person.
How to Request an Absentee Ballot
- Visit: https://azsos.gov/votebymail.
- Option 1: Request the ballot online.
- Option 2: Contact your county recorder via telephone.
- Option 3: Submit a written request.
- Option 4: Send an email to your county recorder.
Voting Options
What to Bring
One of the following forms of photo identification:
- Valid Arizona driver license
- Valid Arizona non-operating identification card
- Tribal enrollment card or other form of tribal identification
- Valid United States federal, state, or local government-issued identification
- Two items that show your name and address:
- Utility bill of the elector that is dated within 90 days of the date of the election. A utility bill may be for electric, gas, water, solid waste, sewer, telephone, cellular phone, or cable television
- Bank or credit union statement that is dated within 90 days of the date of the election
- Valid Arizona Vehicle Registration
- Indian census card
- Property tax statement of the elector’s residence
- Tribal enrollment card or other form of tribal identification
- Arizona vehicle insurance card
- Recorder’s Certificate
- Valid United States federal, state, or local government-issued identification, including a voter registration card issued by the County Recorder
- Any mailing to the elector marked “Official Election Material”
Find Your Election Day Voting Location
- Visit https://my.arizona.vote/WhereToVote.aspx?s=address
- Find your voting location by providing your residential address.
Information on Early Voting
Early voting ballots can be mailed, deposited in a drop box or dropped off at a voting location in your county. Early voting varies by county, but the earliest you can do early voting is 27 days before Election Day until 5:00 PM on the Friday before Election Day.
Find Early Voting Dates and Locations
https://azsos.gov/county-election-info
Contact Information
Find Local Contact Information
Office of the Secretary of State
Elections Division
1700 W Washington St Fl 7
Phoenix, AZ 85007-2808
Phone: 602-542-8683
1-877-THE VOTE (toll-free in Arizona)
Arkansas
State website: https://www.sos.arkansas.gov/elections/voter-information/
Eligibility
Who can register to vote?
To register to vote, you must be:
- A U.S. citizen
- An Arkansas resident
- At least 18 years of age by Election Day.
Felony Restrictions
If you were barred from voting due to a disqualifying felony conviction, you must first complete all of the terms of your sentence before you can have your voting rights restored.
Mental Capacity Restriction
If you have been declared “mentally incompetent” by a court, you will not be able to register to vote until your voting rights are restored.
How to Register
Easiest Way to Register
By mail by filling out this application (https://www.sos.arkansas.gov/uploads/elections/ArkansasVoterRegistrationApplication.pdf) and submitting it to the Arkansas Secretary of State office.
Other Ways to Register
You can also register to vote in person. Refer to the section “How to Register to Vote in Each State and Territory” for more information on your voting options.
Where to Check Voter Status
https://www.voterview.ar-nova.org/voterview
Absentee Ballot (Vote by Mail)
In Arkansas, you must have one of the following reasons to request and be approved for an absentee ballot:
- You will be unavoidably absent from my polling site on Election Day, OR
- You will be unable to attend the polls on Election Day because of an illness or physical disability, OR
- You are a resident of a long-term care or residential facility licensed by the state
- You are a member of the Uniformed Services, merchant marines or the spouse or a dependant family member and are away from your polling location due to the member’s active duty status, OR
- You are a U.S. citizen whose residence is in Arkansas but are temporarily living outside the territorial limits of the United States.
Deadline to Request an Absentee Ballot
Your deadline for requesting an absentee ballot will depend on the method you choose. If requesting in person, you must do so no later than the Friday before Election Day. Requests made by mail or email must be done seven days before Election Day.
Deadline to Submit an Absentee Ballot
In Person: By the close of the business day on the Friday before Election Day.
By Mail: Must be received at clerk’s office by 7:30 p.m. on Election Day.
How to Request an Absentee Ballot
- Visit: https://www.sos.arkansas.gov/elections/voter-information/absentee-voting
- Option 1: Request the application by contacting your local county clerk.
- Option 2: Download and fill out the request form, then mail it to the Arkansas Secretary of State office.
Voting Options
What to Bring
One of the following forms of acceptable photo identification:
- A driver’s license
- A photo identification card
- A concealed handgun carry license
- A United States passport
- An employee badge or identification document issued by an accredited postsecondary education institution in the State of Arkansas
- A United States military identification document
- A public assistance identification card if the card shows a photograph of the person to whom the document or identification card was issued
- A voter verification card as provided under Ark. Code § 7-5-324.
Find Your Election Day Voting Location
- Visit https://www.voterview.ar-nova.org/voterview
- Fill in your information and click on “Look Up.”
Information on Early Voting
Early voting begins either 7 days or 15 days prior to Election Day, depending on the type of election. Early voting takes place at the county clerk’s office in most counties; if it is available somewhere else, the locations will be published in local newspapers.
For preferential primary or general elections, early voting hours are 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM, Monday through Friday and 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM on Saturdays, ending at 5:00 PM on the Monday before Election Day. Off-site early voting hours may differ; consult your local newspaper or county clerk for information. For all other types of elections, early voting is only available during your county clerk’s regular business hours.
Find Early Voting Dates and Locations
Contact Information
Find Local Contact Information
Phone: 501-682-5070/ (800) 482-1127
Arkansas Secretary of State
State Capitol, Suite 256
500 Woodlane Avenue
Little Rock, AR 72201
Contact Page: https://www.sos.arkansas.gov/elections/voter-information
California
State website: https://www.sos.ca.gov/elections
Eligibility
Who can register to vote?
To register to vote, you must be:
- A U.S. citizen
- A California resident
- At least 18 years of age by Election Day.
You must register to vote at least 15 days before Election Day.
Felony Restrictions
If you were barred from voting due to a disqualifying felony conviction, you must first complete all of the terms of your sentence before you can have your voting rights restored. Find out more information about your voting rights if you have a criminal history here: https://www.sos.ca.gov/elections/voting-resources/voting-california/who-can-vote-california/voting-rights-californians/
Mental Capacity Restriction
If you have been declared mentally incompetent by a court, you will not be able to register to vote until your voting rights are restored.
Who can pre-register to vote?
To pre-register to vote, you must be between 16 and 17 years of age and meet all other requirements regarding citizenship, residency, criminal history and mental capacity.
How to Register
Easiest Way to Register
Other Ways to Register
You can also register to vote by mail or in person at your local County Elections office. Paper applications must be postmarked or hand-delivered to the county elections office at least 15 days prior to the election.
If you are enrolled in a confidential address program like Safe at Home, you can register by calling 877-322-5227 or visiting www.sos.ca.gov/registries/safe-home.
If you are registering less than 15 days before the election, you will need to complete the Same-Day Voter Registration process in person at one of the early voting locations listed here caearlyvoting.sos.ca.gov. Refer to the section “How to Register to Vote in Each State and Territory” for more information on your voting options.
Where to Check Voter Status
https://voterstatus.sos.ca.gov/
https://www.sos.ca.gov/elections/registration-status/
Absentee Ballot (Vote by Mail)
Due to the pandemic caused by the COVID-19 virus, California will automatically send all registered voters a mail-in ballot. As such, requesting an absentee ballot will only be necessary if you are currently overseas. Any voter may choose to vote by mail, submit your completed ballot in person at a polling place or dropbox or by authorizing another person to return the ballot for you, so long as they do not get paid on a per ballot basis.
Deadline to Request an Absentee Ballot
If requesting by mail, vote-by-mail applications must be received no later than 7 days before Election Day. After that deadline, you can only apply for an absentee ballot in person at your local County Elections office.
Deadline to Submit an Absentee Ballot
If submitting by mail, your ballot must be postmarked on or before Election Day and delivered no later than 7 days after Election Day. If delivering your ballot in person, you must do so by 8 p.m. on Election Day.
How to Request an Absentee Ballot
- Visit: https://www.sos.ca.gov/elections/voter-registration/vote-mail#vote-by-mail
- Option 1: Complete the application located in your county voter information guide, which you receive before every election.
- Option 2: Download and fill out the request form, then mail it to your local County Elections office. Find it here: https://elections.cdn.sos.ca.gov/vote-by-mail/replacement-application.pdf
- Option 3: Contact your local County Elections office by phone to request the application.
Voting Options
What to Bring
Unless you are voting for the first time, you are not required to show identification to a polling place worker before voting. If you are a first-time voter and did not provide your driver’s license number, California identification number or the last four digits of your Social Security number on your mail-in voter registration form, you will be asked to show ID at the polls.
Acceptable forms of identification include:
- California driver’s license
- California ID card
- U.S. passport
- Student ID with photo
- Recent utility bill
- Sample ballot booklet from the county elections office
- Other documents sent to you by a government agency
Find Your Election Day Voting Location
- Visit: https://www.sos.ca.gov/elections/polling-place/
- Enter your address and click “Search.”
Information On Early Voting
All California counties offer early voting at county election offices and some counties have additional locations.
The California Voter’s Choice Act (VCA) expands early voting and allows voters to vote at any vote center in their county. However, only some counties participate in VCA including Alameda County, Amador County, Butte County, Calaveras County, El Dorado County, Fresno County, Kings County, Los Angeles County, Madera County, Marin County, Mariposa County, Merced County, Napa County, Nevada County, Orange County, Riverside County, Sacramento County, San Benito County, San Diego County, San Mateo County, Santa Clara County, Santa Cruz County, Sonoma County, Stanislaus County, Tuolumne County, Ventura County, and Yolo County.
In these counties, there must be at least one vote center for every 50,000 registered voters beginning 10 days before the election through the Friday before Election Day. On the Saturday, Sunday and Monday before Election Day, there must be at least one vote center for every 10,000 voters. In addition, beginning 28 days before Election Day, there is at least one drop-off location for every 15,000 registered voters.
Find Early Voting Dates and Locations
https://caearlyvoting.sos.ca.gov/
Contact Information
Find Local Contact Information
Phone: (916) 657-2166
Fax: (916) 653-3214
Voter hotlines: https://www.sos.ca.gov/elections/contact
Elections Division
1500 11th Street, 5th Floor
Sacramento, CA 95814
Colorado
State website: <a href="https://www.coloradosos.gov/pubs/elections/main.html?menuheaders=5
Eligibility
Who can register to vote?
To register to vote, you must be:
- A U.S. citizen
- A Colorado resident for at least 22 days immediately before Election Day
- At least 18 years of age on or before election day.
You can register to vote through Election Day.
Felony Restrictions
If you were barred from voting due to a disqualifying felony conviction, you must first complete all of the terms of your sentence before you can have your voting rights restored. Find out more information about your voting rights if you have a criminal history here: https://www.sos.state.co.us/pubs/elections/FAQs/VotingAndConviction.html
Mental Capacity Restriction
If you have been declared mentally incompetent by a court, you will not be able to register to vote until your voting rights are restored.
Who can pre-register to vote?
To pre-register to vote, you must be between at least 16 years of age and meet all other requirements regarding citizenship, residency, criminal history and mental capacity.
How to Register
Easiest Way to Register
https://www.sos.state.co.us/voter/pages/pub/olvr/verifyNewVoter.xhtml
Note: to register online, you need a valid Social Security number, Colorado driver’s license or Colorado ID card. If you don’t have those, you will need to use a paper application.
Other Ways to Register
You can also register to vote by mail to your county clerk or the Colorado Department of State Elections Division or by email to your county clerk. Refer to the section “How to Register to Vote in Each State and Territory” for more information on your voting options.
Where to Check Voter Status
https://www.sos.state.co.us/voter/pages/pub/olvr/findVoterReg.xhtml
Absentee Ballot (Vote by Mail)
Any voter may vote by mail in Colorado without requirements.
Deadline to Request an Absentee Ballot
If you are registered to vote by the 8th day before Election Day, the Colorado Secretary of State office will automatically send you a mail ballot. Otherwise, you must submit an application by mail, at a voter registration agency or at a local driver’s license examination facility through the 8th day before election day.
Deadline to Submit an Absentee Ballot
Your ballot must be received no later than 7 p.m. on Election Day whether submitting by mail or in person.
How to Request an Absentee Ballot
- At least 8 days before Election Day, verify that you are registered to vote and check your address on file. If everything is correct, you will receive one in the mail.
- If you only have a week before Election Day, contact your local county clerk to request a ballot.
Voting Options
What to Bring
An acceptable form of identification. For a list of acceptable forms of ID, visit https://www.sos.state.co.us/pubs/elections/vote/acceptableFormsOfID.html.
Find Your Election Day Voting Location
- Visit: https://www.sos.state.co.us/pubs/elections/Resources/CountyElectionOffices.html
- Click on your county.
Information On Early Voting
Colorado does not have early in-person voting, but you may vote early by mail.
Contact Information
Find Local Contact Information
Colorado Department of State
1700 Broadway Suite 200
Denver, CO 80290
Email: elections@sos.state.co.us
Phone: 303-894-2200
Fax: 303-869-4861
Commonwealth of Northern Mariana Islands
State website: https://www.votecnmi.gov.mp
Eligibility
Who can register to vote?
To register to vote, you must be:
- A CNMI resident in your jurisdiction for at least 120 days
- A U.S. citizen
- At least 18 years of age by Election Day.
You must register at least 60 days before Election Day.
Felony Restrictions
If you were barred from voting due to a disqualifying felony conviction, you must first complete all of the terms of your sentence before you can have your voting rights restored.
Mental Capacity Restriction
If you have been declared mentally incompetent by a court, you will not be able to register to vote until your voting rights are restored.
How to Register
Easiest Way to Register
Mail the application (found here: https://www.votecnmi.gov.mp/downloads/registration_package-f.pdf) to the Commonwealth Election Commission.
Other Ways to Register
You can also register to vote in person. Refer to the section “How to Register to Vote in Each State and Territory” for more information on your voting options.
Where to Check Voter Status
https://www.votecnmi.gov.mp/voter/are-you-registered-to-vote
Absentee Ballot (Vote by Mail)
You do not need an excuse to vote absentee in the Northern Mariana Islands.
Deadline to Request an Absentee Ballot
In CNMI, your request must be received no later than 25 days before Election Day.
Deadline to Submit an Absentee Ballot
Information is not available online.
How to Request an Absentee Ballot
- Fill out the application absentee ballot and email it to cec@votecnmi.gov.mp. Find the application here: https://www.votecnmi.gov.mp/downloads/2020/2020_GE_Absentee_Application-Fillable-v2.pdf
- You can also mail it to the election office or fax it to 670-664-8680.
Voting Options
What to Bring
A current and valid photo identification like a CNMI driver’s license, U.S. passport.
Information on Early Voting
Early voting begins 7 days before Election Day and ends the day before Election Day.
Contact Information
Find Local Contact Information
The Commonwealth Election Commission
P.O. Box 500470
Saipan, MP 96950-0470
Email: cec@votecnmi.gov.mp
Phone: 670-235-8683
Fax: 670-664-8689
Contact page: https://www.votecnmi.gov.mp/contact.php
Connecticut
Eligibility
Who can register to vote?
To register to vote, you must be:
- A U.S. citizen
- A Connecticut resident
- At least 18 years of age by Election Day
You can register through Election Day at designated locations from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. Find the Election Day Registration (EDR) locations here: https://portal.ct.gov/SOTS/Election-Services/Election-Day-Registration/EDR-Location-Page
Felony Restrictions
If you were barred from voting due to a disqualifying felony conviction, you must first complete all of the terms of your sentence before you can have your voting rights restored. Find out more information about your voting rights if you have a criminal history here: https://portal.ct.gov/-/media/SOTS/ElectionServices/HAVA/HavaPDF/TheUltimateFreedompdf.pdf
Mental Capacity Restriction
If you have been declared mentally incompetent by a court, you will not be able to register to vote until your voting rights are restored.
How to Register
Easiest Way to Register
https://voterregistration.ct.gov/OLVR/welcome.do
Other Ways to Register
You can also register to vote by mail or in person. Refer to the section “How to Register to Vote in Each State and Territory” for more information on your voting options.
Where to Check Voter Status
https://portaldir.ct.gov/sots/LookUp.aspx
Absentee Ballot (Vote by Mail)
Connecticut does not allow voters to vote with an absentee ballot unless they meet certain criteria. These include at least one of the following reasons that you cannot appear at your assigned polling place on election day:
- You are in active service in the military
- You are absent from the town
- You are sick
- Your religious tenets forbid secular activity on the day of the election
- You have duties as an election official at a polling place other than your own during all of the hours of voting
- You have a physical disability
Deadline to Request an Absentee Ballot
7 days before an election. If it is within 6 days of the election, you must complete an Emergency Application for Absentee Ballot form instead.
Deadline to Submit an Absentee Ballot
Absentee ballots must be received by the close of polls, 8 p.m. on election day.
How to Request an Absentee Ballot
- Generally, you must fill out the application here: https://oabr-sots.ct.gov/OABR/absenteeBallotReqPortalHome.do and submit it to your local office of the Town Clerk: https://www.ctclerks.com/content/5645/5649/default.aspx
Voting Options
What to Bring
Identification does not have to have a photo. If it does not have a photo, it must have your name and signature or name and address (Ex.: driver’s license, credit card with your name and signature, utility bill with your name and address).
If you do not have a form of ID, you may sign an affidavit at the polls instead.
Find Your Election Day Voting Location
- Visit: https://portaldir.ct.gov/sots/LookUp.aspx
- Fill in your information and click “Search.”
Information On Early Voting
Until the most recent election on November 8, 2022, Connecticut did not have early voting. However, during that election, a constitutional amendment to allow early voting was approved by voters. The Connecticut General Assembly will now be tasked with passing laws to provide for early voting.
Contact Information
Find Local Contact Information
Office of the Secretary of the State State of Connecticut
165 Capitol Avenue
Hartford, CT 06106
Phone: (860) 509-6200
Delaware
State website: https://elections.delaware.gov/voter
Eligibility
Who can register to vote?
To register to vote, you must be:
- A U.S. citizen
- A Delaware resident
- At least 18 years of age by Election Day.
Felony Restrictions
If you were barred from voting due to a disqualifying felony conviction, you must first complete all of the terms of your sentence before you can have your voting rights restored. Find out more information about your voting rights if you have a criminal history here: https://elections.delaware.gov/voter/felons.shtml
Mental Capacity Restriction
If you have been declared mentally incompetent by a court, you will not be able to register to vote until your voting rights are restored.
How to Register
Easiest Way to Register
https://ivote.de.gov/voterview/registrant/newregistrant
Other Ways to Register
You can also register to vote by mail, by phone or in person at your local Department of Elections office, Division of Motor Vehicles office, at the Department for Health and Social Services or at the Department of Labor. Refer to the section “How to Register to Vote in Each State and Territory” for more information on your voting options.
Where to Check Voter Status
https://ivote.de.gov/voterview
Absentee Ballot (Vote by Mail)
Voters in Delaware need to have a reason to vote by absentee ballot. Acceptable reasons include:
- Being in public service of the United States (U.S.) or the State of Delaware
- Being a citizen of the U.S. temporarily residing outside the territorial limits of the U.S. and the District of Columbia, or such person’s spouse or dependent when residing with or accompanying such person
- Being absent from this State because of illness or injury while serving the armed forces of the U.S.
- Being in the armed forces of the U.S. or the merchant marine of the US., or attached to and serving with the armed forces of the U.S. in the American Red Cross or United Service Organizations
- Due to the nature of your business or occupation such as providing care to a parent, spouse, or child who is living at home and requires constant care due to illness, disability, or injury
- Being a student
- Otherwise eligible persons who are incarcerated
- Being sick or physically disabled (temporarily or permanently)
- Being absent from the district while on vacation
- Being unable to vote at a certain time or on a certain day due to the tenets or teachings of religion
Deadline to Request an Absentee Ballot
You have until the 4th day before Election Day to submit your application.
Deadline to Submit an Absentee Ballot
Your ballot must be received no later than 8 p.m. on Election Day whether submitting by mail or in person.
How to Request an Absentee Ballot
- Option 1: Apply online here: https://ivote.de.gov/voterview
- Download and print the application then mail or fax it to your local Department of Elections office. Get the form here: https://elections.delaware.gov/pubs/pdfs/absentee_ballot_application.pdf
Find office locations here: https://elections.delaware.gov/locations.shtml
Voting Options
What to Bring
An acceptable form of identification with photo or signature (Ex: a Delaware driver’s license, U.S. passport, signed vehicle registration). If you do not have ID, you can fill out a form at the polling location instead.
Find Your Election Day Voting Location
- Visit: https://ivote.de.gov/voterview
- Scroll down to “Polling Location Search” and enter your residential address.
- Click on “View Locations.”
Information on Early Voting
Early voting is available at least 10 days before primary, general and special elections and ends the Sunday before Election Day. Locations and times will be designated for early voting and will be announced.
Contact Information
Find Local Contact Information
905 S. Governors Ave Ste 170
Dover, DE 19904
Office locations: https://elections.delaware.gov/locations.shtml
Phone: (302) 739-4277
Fax: (302) 739-6794
District of Columbia
State website: https://www.dcboe.org
Eligibility
Who can register to vote?
To register to vote, you must be:
- A District of Columbia resident for at least 30 days leading up to Election Day
- A U.S. citizen
- At least 18 years of age by Election Day.
You must register to vote at least 21 days before an election. However, if you miss that date, you can register in person up until Election Day.
Who can pre-register?
You must be at least 17 years of age to pre-register to vote.
Felony Restrictions
The District of Columbia permits all individuals with felony convictions, including those who are currently incarcerated or serving a sentence, to vote, as long as they meet the requirements listed above. All citizens who are convicted of a felony retain their right to vote.
Mental Capacity Restriction
If you have been declared mentally incompetent by a court, you will not be able to register to vote until your voting rights are restored.
How to Register
Easiest Way to Register
https://forms.dc.gov/f/DC_Voter_Registration_Form
Other Ways to Register
You can also register to vote:
- By mail
- By fax
- By email
Download the application form and submit it to the D.C. Board of Elections. Find the application form here: https://dcboe.org/dcboe/media/PDFFiles/VoterRegForm82020.pdf
Refer to the section “How to Register to Vote in Each State and Territory” for more information on your voting registration options.
Where to Check Voter Status
https://www.dcboe.org/Voters/Register-To-Vote/Check-Voter-Registration-Status
Absentee Ballot (Vote by Mail)
The District of Columbia automatically mails mail-in ballots to all registered voters ahead of the election. Any voter may choose to vote by mail. First-time voters who registered by mail or online and vote by mail must include a copy of a current and valid government-issued photo ID or a copy of a current utility bill, bank statement, government check, paycheck or other government-issued document showing name and address. If submitting a non-photo piece of identification, it must be dated within 90 days prior to the election.
Deadline to Request an Absentee Ballot
Requests for mail-in ballots must be received no later than the 15th day before each election.
Deadline to Submit an Absentee Ballot
Your absentee ballot must be postmarked on or before Election Day and received no later than the seventh day after Election Day.
How to Request an Absentee Ballot
Visit: https://dcboe.org/Voters/Absentee-Voting/Request-an-Absentee-Ballot
- Option 1: Download the absentee ballot request form and mail, fax email or hand deliver your request to the D.C. Board of Elections. Get the request form here: https://dcboe.org/Data-Resources-Forms/Forms-and-Resources/AbsenteeBallotRequestForm.aspx
- Option 3: Contact your local elections office and submit the following information:
- o Your name
- o The election(s) for which you are requesting a ballot
- o The address at which you are registered
- o Your current address (if different from above)
- o Your contact information (telephone number and/or email address)
- o Your date of birth
- o Mailing address to which the ballot should be sent
- o Your original signature
Voting Options
What to Bring
Depending on when you register, you may need to show proof of residence at the polls. The document must have your name and address. Acceptable forms of ID include:
- Current and valid District of Columbia DMV issued ID
- Government check or paycheck*
- Bank statement*
- Current utility bill*
- Student housing statement/tuition bill
- Homeless shelter occupancy statement
- Lease
- Other government document with your name and address
* The issue, bill, or statement date must be within 90 days of Election Day
Information on Early Voting
In DC, voters may cast their vote at any vote center during early voting, regardless of their address. Early vote centers are open 7 days before Election Day, from 8:30 AM to 7:00 PM.
Contact Information
Find Local Contact Information
DC Board of Elections
1015 Half Street, SE, Suite 750
Washington, DC 20003
Contact Page: https://www.dcboe.org/Contact
Phone: (202) 727-2525
Toll-free: 1-866-DC-VOTES
TTY (Text Telephone): 711 (in DC)
TTY (Text Telephone): 800-643-3768
Spanish: 800-546-5111
Spanish TTY: 800-546-7111
Florida
State website: https://dos.myflorida.com/elections/for-voters
Eligibility
Who can register to vote?
To register to vote, you must be:
- A U.S. citizen
- A Florida resident
- At least 18 years of age by Election Day.
You must register to vote at least 29 days before Election Day.
Who can pre-register to vote?
You must be at least 16 years of age to pre-register to vote in Florida. However, you must be 18 years old by Election Day to vote.
Felony Restrictions
If you were barred from voting due to a disqualifying felony conviction, you must first complete all of the terms of your sentence before you can have your voting rights restored. For more information, visit the Florida Commission on Offender Review here: https://www.fcor.state.fl.us/index.shtml
Mental Capacity Restriction
If you have been declared “mentally incompetent” by a court, you will not be able to register to vote until your voting rights are restored.
How to Register
Easiest Way to Register
https://registertovoteflorida.gov/
Other Ways to Register
You can also register to vote by mail or in person at a county Supervisor of Elections office, tax collector’s office, voter registration agency or Florida drivers license office. Refer to the section “How to Register to Vote in Each State and Territory” for more information on your voting registration options.
Where to Check Voter Status
https://registration.elections.myflorida.com/CheckVoterStatus
Absentee Ballot (Vote by Mail)
Any Florida voter may request a vote-by-mail ballot. Once it is requested, a vote-by-mail ballot will be mailed to the voter for any subsequent elections through the end of the calendar year.
Deadline to Request an Absentee Ballot
You have until 5 p.m. on the 10th day before the election date to submit an absentee ballot application by mail. You may instead pick up a ballot through Election Day.
Deadline to Submit an Absentee Ballot
The Florida Division of Election must receive your ballot by 7 p.m. on Election Day for your vote to be counted.
How to Request an Absentee Ballot
- Visit: https://www.dos.myflorida.com/elections/for-voters/voting/vote-by-mail/ and select your application.
- Option 1: Request one on your county Supervisors of Elections’ website. Find your county’s elections contact information here: https://dos.elections.myflorida.com/supervisors/
- Option 2: Email, fax or mail the request to your local county elections office.
- Option 3: Visit your local county elections office to submit to request.
- Option 4: Request one over the phone by calling your local county elections office.
Voting Options
What to Bring
An acceptable form of photo identification with a signature. Acceptable forms of ID include:
- Florida driver’s license
- Florida identification card issued by the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles
- United States passport
- Debit or credit card
- Military identification
- Student identification
- Retirement center identification
- Neighborhood association identification
- Public assistance identification
- Veteran health identification card issued by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs
- License to carry a concealed weapon or firearm issued pursuant to s. 790.06
- Employee identification card issued by any branch, department, agency, or entity of the Federal Government, the state, a county, or a municipality.
If the photo ID presented does not have your signature, you will need to show another ID that does have your signature.
Find Your Election Day Voting Location
https://registration.elections.myflorida.com/CheckVoterStatus
Information on Early Voting
In Florida, any election that contains a state or federal race must have early voting available starting at least 10 days before the election until 3 days before it. On a county-by-county basis, local supervisors of elections may choose to extend early voting as early as 15 days before the election and to also include the 2nd day before the election.
Find Early Voting Information
Contact your County Supervisor of Elections: https://dos.elections.myflorida.com/supervisors/
Contact Information
Find Local Contact Information
Department of State, Division of Elections
Director’s Office Room 316,
R.A. Gray Building
500 South Bronough Street
Tallahassee, Florida 32399-0250
Contact page: https://dos.myflorida.com/elections/contacts
Phone: 850-245-6200 (Director’s Office)
Voter Assistance Hotline: 1-866-308-6739
Georgia
State website: https://sos.ga.gov/index.php/elections
Eligibility
Who can register to vote?
To register to vote, you must be:
- A U.S. citizen
- A Georgia resident
- At least 17 and one-half years of age.
Felony Restrictions
If you were barred from voting due to a disqualifying felony conviction, you must first complete all of the terms of your sentence before you can have your voting rights restored.
Mental Capacity Restriction
If you have been declared mentally incompetent by a court, you will not be able to register to vote until your voting rights are restored.
How to Register
Easiest Way to Register
https://registertovote.sos.ga.gov/GAOLVR/welcometoga.do#no-back-button
Other Ways to Register
You can also register to vote by mail. Refer to the section “How to Register to Vote in Each State and Territory” for more information on your voting options.
Where to Check Voter Status
https://www.mvp.sos.ga.gov/MVP/mvp.do
Absentee Ballot (Vote by Mail)
Any voter in Georgia may opt to vote by absentee ballot, whether they are absent from the county on Election Day or not.
Deadline to Request an Absentee Ballot
You have until the end of business day on the last Friday before Election Day to request your absentee ballot.
Deadline to Submit an Absentee Ballot
Your ballot must be received no later than 7 p.m. on Election Day whether submitting by mail or in person.
How to Request an Absentee Ballot
- Visit https://georgia.gov/vote-absentee-ballot
- Option 1: Submit your ballot request here: https://securemyabsenteeballot.sos.ga.gov/s/absentee-ballot-request
- Download the application (https://securemyabsenteeballot.sos.ga.gov/resource/1688626692000/AbsenteeBallotPDF) and submit it by mail, by fax or in person.
Voting Options
What to Bring
An acceptable form of photo identification. Acceptable forms of ID include:
- Any valid state or federal government-issued photo ID, including a free ID card issued by your county registrar’s office or the Georgia Department of Driver Services
- A Georgia driver’s license, even if expired
- Student ID from a Georgia public college or university
- Valid employee photo ID from any branch, department, agency, or entity of the U.S. Government, Georgia, or any county, municipality, board, authority or other entity of this state
- Valid U.S. passport ID
- Valid U.S. military photo ID containing a photograph of the voter
- Valid tribal photo ID containing a photograph of the voter
Find Your Election Day Voting Location
- Visit: https://www.mvp.sos.ga.gov/MVP/mvp.do
- Log in to the MVP portal by entering your first initial, last name, county and date of birth.
Information on Early Voting
Georgians can vote early up to three weeks before Election Day, including two Saturdays. Some counties also offer early voting on Sundays during this period. Runoff elections have shorter early voting periods. When voting early, you can vote at any early voting location in your county, regardless of address.
Find Early Voting Dates and Locations
https://www.mvp.sos.ga.gov/MVP/mvp.do
Contact Information
Find Local Contact Information
214 State Capitol
Atlanta, GA 30334
Contact Page: https://georgia.gov/contact-georgiagov
Phone: (844) 753-7825
Fax: (404) 463-5231
Guam
State website: https://gec.guam.gov
Eligibility
Who can register to vote?
To register to vote, you must be:
- A Guam resident
- A U.S. citizen
- At least 18 years of age by Election Day.
You must register at least 10 days before Election Day.
Felony Restrictions
If you were barred from voting due to a disqualifying felony conviction, you must first complete all of the terms of your sentence before you can have your voting rights restored.
Mental Capacity Restriction
If you have been declared mentally incompetent by a court, you will not be able to register to vote until your voting rights are restored.
How to Register
Easiest Way to Register
https://gec.guam.gov/register/
Other Ways to Register
You can also register to vote by mail and in person at the Guam Election Commission office. Refer to the section “How to Register to Vote in Each State and Territory” for more information on your voting options.
Where to Check Voter Status
https://gec.guam.gov/validate/
Absentee Ballot (Vote by Mail)
Guam voters need one of the following reasons to get an absentee ballot:
- The conduct of his business or due to other necessary travel
- Illness or physical disability
- Service in the Armed forces or Merchant Marine of the United States
- Employment with the government of Guam
- Attendance at an institution of learning
- Employment in the service of the United States or any Federal agency
- Accompanying a spouse who is engaged in any activity listed above
- U.S. citizen residing outside the United States
Deadline to Request an Absentee Ballot
In Guam, your request must be received by 5 p.m. four days before Election Day.
Deadline to Submit an Absentee Ballot
In Guam, your ballot must be received by the end of the day on Election Day. If returning it by mail, it must be postmarked by Election Day and received no later than 10 days after the election.
How to Request an Absentee Ballot
- Download your absentee ballot here (https://drive.google.com/file/d/1wjDFCCPRum0p7SosdttJS9_9rxeOzePS/view) and mail in your request to the Guam Election Commission.
Voting Options
What to Bring
An acceptable form of photo identification including:
- Valid photo identification card issued by a federal, state, or government of Guam entity
- Valid photo student ID issued by a Guam secondary school or Guam post-secondary school
Information on Early Voting
Early voting takes place starting 4 weeks before Election Day and ends 5 days before Election Day. It takes place at the Westin.
Contact Information
Find Local Contact Information
Guam Election Commission
414 West Soledad Avenue
GCIC Bldg. 2nd Floor, Suite 200
Hagatna, GU 96910
Phone: +1-671-477-9791
Contact page: https://gec.guam.gov/index.php/contact-the-gec
Secondary address:
P.O. Box BG
Hagåtña, Guam 96932
Email: Vote@gec.guam.gov
Hawaii
State website: https://elections.hawaii.gov/
Eligibility
Who can register to vote?
To register to vote, you must be:
- A U.S. citizen
- A Hawaii resident
- At least 18 years of age by Election Day.
Felony Restrictions
If you were barred from voting due to a disqualifying felony conviction, you must first complete all of the terms of your sentence before you can have your voting rights restored.
Mental Capacity Restriction
If you have been declared mentally incompetent by a court, you will not be able to register to vote until your voting rights are restored.
How to Register
Easiest Way to Register
Other Ways to Register
You can also register to vote by mail or in person. Refer to the section “How to Register to Vote in Each State and Territory” for more information on your voting registration options.
Who Can Pre-Register
You must be at least 16 years of age to pre-register in Hawaii and meet all other requirements listed above.
Where to Check Voter Status
Absentee Ballot (Vote by Mail)
Hawaii allows any voter to vote with an absentee ballot whether they are physically in the county on Election Day or not. Voters with special needs can request an electronic ballot to be emailed to them for each election.
Deadline to Request an Absentee Ballot
In Hawaii, all registered voters receive a mail ballot approximately 18 days before Election Day. If you will be away from your home during Election Day, you can submit an Absentee Application requesting that your ballot be mailed to an alternate address. These Absentee Applications must be submitted to the voter’s County Elections Division at least 7 days before the election.
Deadline to Submit an Absentee Ballot
Your ballot must be received no later than 7 p.m. on Election Day whether submitting by mail or in person.
How to Request an Absentee Ballot
- Contact your local clerk’s office if you do not receive a ballot in the mail.
How to Vote
What to Bring
If you are registering to vote for the first time and mailing your application, you will need to provide a copy of a current and valid photo identification or an acceptable document that shows your name and address (Ex.: a current utility bill, bank statement, paycheck). When voting in person, no ID is required.
Find Your Election Day Voting Location
Because all registered voters will receive a ballot by mail, there are no traditional polling places. However, you can visit a Voter Service Center to register or vote in person: https://elections.hawaii.gov/voter-service-centers-and-places-of-deposit/
Information on Early Voting
You can vote early in Hawaii by returning your mail-in ballot early or by visiting a voting location within the 10-day period before the election.
Contact Information
Find Local Contact Information
Office of Elections
802 Lehua Avenue
Pearl City, Hawaii 96782
Email: elections@hawaii.gov
Phone: (808) 453- 8683 Fax: (808) 453-6006
County election divisions: https://elections.hawaii.gov/resources/county-election-divisions
Idaho
State website: https://sos.idaho.gov/elections-division/
Eligibility
Who can register to vote?
To register to vote, you must be:
- A U.S. citizen
- An Idaho resident for at least 30 days leading up to Election Day
- At least 18 years of age by Election Day.
Felony Restrictions
If you were barred from voting due to a disqualifying felony conviction, you must first complete all of the terms of your sentence before you can have your voting rights restored.
Mental Capacity Restriction
If you have been declared mentally incompetent by a court, you will not be able to register to vote until your voting rights are restored.
How to Register
Easiest Way to Register
https://elections.sos.idaho.gov/ElectionLink/ElectionLink/ApplicationInstructions.aspx
Other Ways to Register
You can also register to vote by mail or in person. Refer to the section “How to Register to Vote in Each State and Territory” for more information on your voting registration options.
Where to Check Voter Status
https://elections.sos.idaho.gov/ElectionLink/ElectionLink/VoterSearch.aspx
Absentee Ballot (Vote by Mail)
To receive an absentee ballot, you must submit an application but you do not need to meet any criteria to receive one, other than being eligible to vote in Idaho.
Deadline to Submit an Absentee Ballot
Your ballot must be received no later than 8 p.m. on Election Day for both primary and general elections.
How to Request an Absentee Ballot
Visit: https://idahovotes.gov/absentee-voter-information/
- Option 1: Request an absentee ballot online here: https://elections.sos.idaho.gov/ElectionLink/ElectionLink/BeginAbsenteeRequest.aspx
- Option 2: Mail in your request to your County Clerk. Complete the Absentee Request Form here: https://sos.idaho.gov/elections/forms/absentee_ballot_request.pdf
Voting Options
What to Bring
An acceptable form of photo identification (Ex: an Idaho driver’s license, U.S. passport, current Idaho student federal ID).
Acceptable forms of ID include:
- An Idaho driver’s license or Idaho photo identification card
- A U.S. passport or Federal photo identification card
- A tribal photo identification card
- A current student photo ID, issued by an Idaho high school or post secondary education institution
- A license to carry a concealed weapon issued by a county sheriff in Idaho.
If you do not have an acceptable form of photo identification, you may sign an affidavit instead.
Find Your Election Day Voting Location
https://elections.sos.idaho.gov/ElectionLink/ElectionLink/ViewPollingLocation.aspx
Information on Early Voting
Depending on where you live, you may be able to vote early in Idaho. Decisions about early voting are made on a county-by-county basis. For those counties conducting early voting, it begins 3 weeks before Election Day and ends at 5:00 PM four days before Election Day.
Early Voting Instructions
Early voting guidelines will vary by county. Contact your local county clerk office here for more information on how to vote early: https://idahovotes.gov/county-clerks/
Contact Information
Find Local Contact Information
Physical Address: 700 W. Jefferson St., Room E205
Boise, ID 83720-0080
Mailing Address: P.O. Box 83720
Boise, ID 83720-0080
Email: elections@sos.idaho.gov
Phone: (208) 334-2852
County Clerks: https://idahovotes.gov/county-clerks
Illinois
State website: https://www.elections.il.gov/Default.aspx
Eligibility
Who can register to vote?
To register to vote, you must be:
- A U.S. citizen
- An Illinois resident for at least 30 days leading up to Election Day
- At least 18 years of age by the General Election Day.
If you meet these requirements, you are able to vote in the Primary Election if you are age 17 or older.
You must register to vote at least 29 days before Election Day.
Felony Restrictions
If you were barred from voting due to a disqualifying felony conviction, you must first complete all of the terms of your sentence before you can have your voting rights restored.
Mental Capacity Restriction
If you have been declared mentally incompetent by a court, you will not be able to register to vote until your voting rights are restored.
How to Register
Easiest Way to Register
https://ova.elections.il.gov/Step0.aspx
Other Ways to Register
You can also register to vote by mail or in person. Refer to the section “How to Register to Vote in Each State and Territory” for more information on your voting options.
Where to Check Voter Status
https://ova.elections.il.gov/RegistrationLookup.aspx
Absentee Ballot (Vote by Mail)
Any Illinois resident who is eligible to vote may vote via a vote-by-mail ballot without an excuse.
Deadline to Submit an Absentee Ballot
Your mail-in ballot must be postmarked no later than Election Day for both primary and general election and received within 14 days of the election.
How to Request an Absentee Ballot
Visit: https://elections.il.gov/electionoperations/VotingByMail.aspx
- Step 1
- Get your application form here if you are a military servicemember or citizen living overseas: https://elections.il.gov/VotingAndRegistrationSystems/VotingByMailMove.aspx
- Get your application form here for a regular absentee ballot: https://elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/VotingByMailAgreement.aspx
- Step 2: If completing a regular absentee ballot request form, select your county and follow the instructions on the application. The process will differ depending on your county. You may contact your County Clerk using the contact information here: https://www.elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx?MID=cQHxtxVEmuo%3d&T=637356760819497347
Voting Options
What to Bring
If you have registered to vote by mail and did not include your driver’s license number, state ID number or the last four digits of your Social Security number, you will need to vote for the first time in person. In this circumstance, when you go to the polling place, you will need to provide an acceptable form of identification. Acceptable forms of ID include:
- A current and valid photo identification
- Utility bill
- Bank statement
- Government check
- Paycheck
- Lease or contract for residence
- Student ID & mail addressed to voter’s residence
- Government document
In order to be used for ID at the polling place, the above items must show your name and address. If you do not have any of these items and did not provide the required information in your mailed registration, you may vote with a provisional ballot.
Learn more about Illinois voter ID requirements here: https://www.cookcountyclerk.com/service/when-voters-do-and-dont-need-identification-id
Find Your Election Day Voting Location
https://ova.elections.il.gov/PollingPlaceLookup.aspx
Information on Early Voting
Early voting begins the 40th day before Election Day and continues until the end of the day before Election Day. Each election authority determines the locations and times for early voting in its area. This information is published by each election authority and is also available on the Illinois State Board of Elections website at least 10 days before the beginning of any early voting period.
Votes cast during early voting are not counted until the polls close on Election Day. Curbside voting, which is when two election judges of opposite political parties deliver a ballot to a voter in their vehicle outside a polling place, can take place during early voting.
Early Voting Locations and Information
Contact Information
Find Local Contact Information
Springfield Office
2329 S. MacArthur Blvd.
Springfield, IL 62704
Phone: (217) 782-4141
Fax: (217) 782-5959
Email: webmaster@elections.il.gov
Chicago Office
100 W. Randolph
Suite 14-100
Chicago, IL 60601
Phone: (312) 814-6440
Fax: (312) 814-6485
Indiana
State website: https://www.in.gov/sos/elections
Eligibility
Who can register to vote?
To register to vote, you must be:
- An Indiana resident for at least 30 days leading up to Election Day
- A U.S. citizen
- At least 18 years of age by the next General Election Day.
You must register to vote at least 29 days before an election.
Felony Restrictions
If you were barred from voting due to a disqualifying felony conviction, you must first complete all of the terms of your sentence before you can have your voting rights restored.
Mental Capacity Restriction
If you have been declared mentally incompetent by a court, you will not be able to register to vote until your voting rights are restored.
How to Register
Easiest Way to Register
Other Ways to Register
You can also register to vote by mail or in person.Refer to the section “How to Register to Vote in Each State and Territory” for more information on your voting options.
Where to Check Voter Status
Absentee Ballot (Vote by Mail)
In order to get an absentee ballot in Indiana, you must have one of the following reasons:
- You have a specific, reasonable expectation that you will be absent from the county on Election Day during the entire 12 hours that the polls are open (6 am until 6 pm).
- You have a disability.
- You are at least 65 years of age.
- You will have official election duties outside of your voting precinct.
- You are scheduled to work at your regular place of employment during the entire 12 hours that the polls are open.
- You will be confined due to illness or injury or you will be caring for an individual confined due to illness or injury during the entire 12 hours that the polls are open.
- You are prevented from voting because of a religious discipline or religious holiday during the entire 12 hours that the polls are open.
- You are a participant in the state’s address confidentiality program.
- You are a member of the military or a public safety officer.
- You are a “serious sex offender” as defined in Indiana Code 35-42-4-14(a).
- You are prevented from voting due to the unavailability of transportation to the polls.
Deadline to Request an Absentee Ballot
12 days before an election
Deadline to Submit an Absentee Ballot
Your absentee ballot must be received by your local county election officials by noon on Election Day.
How to Request an Absentee Ballot
Visit: in.gov/sos/elections/2402.htm
- Option 1: Submit your request online here: https://indianavoters.in.gov/MVPHome/PrintDocuments
- Option 2: Download the absentee ballot request form and mail in your completed request to your local county elections office: https://www.evansville.edu/studentengagement/downloads/application-for-absentee-ballot.pdf
Voting Options
What to Bring
An acceptable form of photo identification such as an Indiana driver’s license, Indiana photo ID card, military ID card or U.S. passport. Learn more about Indiana voter ID requirements here: https://www.in.gov/sos/elections/2401.htm
Find Your Election Day Voting Location
Information on Early Voting
All Indiana voters may vote early in person. Early voting is available from 27 days prior to Election Day until the day before Election Day. If you are eligible for an absentee ballot, you may cast that ballot early by mail during the same time period.
Voters who are experiencing an illness or injury, are caring for a person who will be confined to home on Election Day or have a disability that prevents them from voting at their non-accecssible polling location can qualify for the travel board. The travel board is when two poll workers, one from each major party, physically bring a ballot to the voter’s home, help the voter fill out the ballot if necessary and return it to election officials to be counted.
Find out more about early voting at https://www.in.gov/idr/voteearly.htm.
Early Voting Instructions
https://www.in.gov/idr/voteearly.htm
Contact Information
Find Local Contact Information
Office of Elections
802 Lehua Avenue
Pearl City, Hawaii 96782
Email: elections@hawaii.gov
Phone: (808) 453- 8683
Fax: (808) 453-6006
Contact page: https://indianavoters.in.gov/CountyContact/Index
Iowa
State website: https://sos.iowa.gov/elections/voterinformation/
Eligibility
Who can register to vote?
To register to vote, you must be:
- An Iowa resident
- A U.S. citizen
- At least 18 years of age by General Election Day.
You may vote in the Primary at age 17 if you meet these requirements.
Felony Restrictions
If you were barred from voting due to a disqualifying felony conviction, you must first complete all of the terms of your sentence before you can have your voting rights restored. Learn more about how to restore your voting rights here: https://sos.iowa.gov/elections/voterinformation/restorerights.html
Mental Capacity Restriction
If you have been declared mentally incompetent by a court, you will not be able to register to vote until your voting rights are restored.
How to Register
Easiest Way to Register
https://mymvd.iowadot.gov/Account/Login?ReturnUrl=%2fVoterRegistration
Other Ways to Register
You can also register to vote by mail or in person. Refer to the section “How to Register to Vote in Each State and Territory” for more information on your voting registration options.
Where to Check Voter Status
https://sos.iowa.gov/elections/voterreg/regtovote/search.aspx
Absentee Ballot (Vote by Mail)
Any registered Iowa voter can request and vote using an absentee ballot.
Deadline to Request an Absentee Ballot
Written requests for mailed absentee ballots must be received by your County Auditor no later than 5 p.m. on the 15th day before an election.
Deadline to Submit an Absentee Ballot
Your absentee ballot must be received by your County Auditor no later than 5 p.m. on the 10th day before a General Election or the 11th day before any other election.
How to Request an Absentee Ballot
Visit: https://sos.iowa.gov/elections/electioninfo/absenteeinfo.html
- Option 1: Download your absentee ballot request form and mail in your request to your local county auditor. Find the ballot request form here: https://sos.iowa.gov/elections/pdf/absenteeballotapp.pdf
- Option 2: Locate your local county auditor office and request a ballot in person. Find your local office here: https://sos.iowa.gov/elections/auditors/auditorslist.html
Voting Options
What to Bring
One of the following acceptable form of identification:
- An Iowa driver’s license
- Non-operator’s ID issued by the Iowa Department of Transportation
- U.S. passport
- U.S. military ID
- Veteran’s ID
- Tribal ID or document
- Iowa voter ID card
Learn more about Iowa voter ID requirements here: https://sos.iowa.gov/elections/voterinformation/voterIDfaq.html
Find Your Election Day Voting Location
https://sos.iowa.gov/elections/voterreg/pollingplace/search.aspx
Information on Early Voting
In Iowa, early voting is done through absentee voting and starts 29 days before Election Day. If you choose this option, you can vote at your County Auditor’s office: https://sos.iowa.gov/elections/auditors/auditorslist.html
Find Early Voting Dates and Locations
In Iowa, early voting is done through absentee voting and starts 29 days before Election Day. If you choose this option, you can vote at your County Auditor’s office: https://sos.iowa.gov/elections/auditors/auditorslist.html
Contact Information
Find Local Contact Information
Iowa Secretary of State Office
First Floor,
Lucas Building 321 E. 12th St.
Des Moines, IA 50319
Email: sos@sos.iowa.gov
Phone: (515) 281-0145
or 1 (888)-SOS-VOTE
Fax: 515-281-4682
Contact page: https://sos.iowa.gov/contactus.html
Kansas
State website: https://sos.ks.gov/elections/elections.html
Eligibility
Who can register to vote?
To register to vote, you must be:
- A Kansas resident
- A U.S. citizen
- At least 18 years of age by Election Day.
You must register to vote at least 21 days before Election Day.
Who can pre-register?
You must be at least 17 years of age to pre-register to vote and be 18 years of age by the next election.
Felony Restrictions
If you were barred from voting due to a disqualifying felony conviction, you must first complete all of the terms of your sentence before you can have your voting rights restored. Learn more about it here: https://sos.ks.gov/Pubs/Elections/Guides/English/Voting-and-Felony-Convictions-Guide.pdf
Mental Capacity Restriction
If you have been declared mentally incompetent by a court, you will not be able to register to vote until your voting rights are restored.
How to Register
Easiest Way to Register
https://www.kdor.ks.gov/apps/voterreg/default.aspx
Note:
To register online, you must have a valid Kansas driver’s license or Kansas non-driver’s identification card. If you do not have one of these forms of identification, you must use the paper application form instead.
Other Ways to Register
You can also register to vote by mail or in person. Refer to the section “How to Register to Vote in Each State and Territory” for more information on your voting registration options.
Where to Check Voter Status
https://myvoteinfo.voteks.org/VoterView/
Absentee Ballot (Vote by Mail)
Voters in Kansas do not need an excuse to request and receive an advance vote-by-mail ballot.
Deadline to Request an Absentee Ballot
In Kansas, you must request your absentee ballot no later than seven days before Election Day.
Deadline to Submit an Absentee Ballot
Your absentee ballot must be received in the county election office by the close of business on the Friday after Election Day. If sending by mail, it must be postmarked by Election Day.
How to Request an Absentee Ballot
- Option 1: Download your absentee ballot request form and mail in your request to your local county elections office. Find the ballot request form here: https://www.kssos.org/forms/elections/AV1.pdf
Find your county election office contact information here: https://sos.ks.gov/elections/county_election_officers.aspx
- Option 2: Locate your local county elections office and request your absentee ballot in person. Find your local office here: https://sos.ks.gov/elections/county_election_officers.aspx
Voting Options
What to Bring
One of the following acceptable forms of identification:
- Driver’s license or ID card issued by Kansas or another state
- U.S. Passport
- U.S. Military ID
- ID card issued by a Native American tribe
- Employee badge or ID issued by a government office
- Student ID card from an accredited postsecondary education institution in Kansas
- Concealed carry license issued by Kansas or another state
- Public assistance ID card issued by a government office
Learn more about photo ID requirements here: https://sos.ks.gov/Pubs/Elections/Guides/English/Photo-ID-101-Guide.pdf
Find Your Election Day Voting Location
https://myvoteinfo.voteks.org/voterview
Information on Early Voting
In Kansas, early voting is done through in-person advance voting and starts up to 20 days before an election, but the exact dates vary by county. Counties are required to offer advance in-person voting at least 7 days before Election Day. Early voting ends at noon on the day before Election Day.
In addition, voters can opt for advance voting by mail. Advance mail ballots must be postmarked by Election Day and received within three business days after Election Day.
Find Early Voting Dates and Locations
In Kansas, early voting is done through in-person advance voting and starts up to 20 days before an election. To learn more about advance voting locations, contact your local election office. Find your local office here: https://sos.ks.gov/elections/county_election_officers.aspx
Contact Information
Find Local Contact Information
Kansas Secretary of State
Memorial Hall, 1st Floor
120 SW 10th Avenue
Topeka, KS 66612-1594
Email: election@ks.gov
Phone: 785-296-4561
Contact Page: https://sos.ks.gov/contact/contact-us.html
Kentucky
State website: https://elect.ky.gov/Voters/Pages/default.aspx
Eligibility
Who can register to vote?
To register to vote, you must be:
- A Kentucky resident for at least 28 days before the election
- A U.S. citizen
- At least 18 years of age by the next General Election.
You may vote in a Primary election at 17 years of age if you will be 18 years of age by the General Election date.
Felony Restrictions
If you were barred from voting due to a disqualifying felony conviction, you must first complete all of the terms of your sentence before you can have your voting rights restored.
Mental Capacity Restriction
If you have been declared mentally incompetent by a court, you will not be able to register to vote until your voting rights are restored.
How to Register
Easiest Way to Register
https://vrsws.sos.ky.gov/ovrweb/
Other Ways to Register
You can also register to vote by mail or in person. Refer to the section “How to Register to Vote in Each State and Territory” for more information on your voting registration options.
Where to Check Voter Status
Absentee Ballot (Vote by Mail)
Kentucky has both excused absentee voting and no-excuse absentee voting, each with different in-person voting dates. For the November election, excused absentee voting was October 26-28, October 31 and November 1-2. No-excuse absentee voting was November 3-5. In addition, absentee ballots may be mailed in.
Deadline to Submit an Absentee Ballot
Your absentee ballot must be postmarked by Election Day.
How to Request an Absentee Ballot
- Option 1: Submit your request online here: https://vrsws.sos.ky.gov/abrweb/
- Option 2: If the office is no longer accepting absentee ballots and you are experiencing a medical emergency, contact your county clerk’s office to learn about medical emergency absentee ballots: https://elect.ky.gov/About-Us/Pages/County-Clerks.aspx
Voting Options
What to Bring
An acceptable form of identification, which includes one of the following:
- A document issued by The United States or the Commonwealth of Kentucky with the name and a photograph of the individual to whom the document was issued
- The United States Department of Defense, a branch of the uniformed services, the Merchant Marine, or the Kentucky National Guard with the name and a photograph of the individual to whom the document was issued
- A public or private college, university, or postgraduate technical or professional school located within the United States with the name and a photograph of the individual to whom the document was issued
- Any city government, county government, urban-county government, charter county government, consolidated local government, or unified local government, which is located within this state, with the name and a photograph of the individual to whom the document was issued
Learn more about acceptable forms of voter identification here: https://elect.ky.gov/Frequently-Asked-Questions/Documents/SB%202%20FAQ.pdf
Find Your Election Day Voting Location
https://vrsws.sos.ky.gov/ovrweb/govoteky
Information on Early Voting
The online absentee ballot request portal opens about a month and a half before the election. Voters can mail their absentee ballots once they receive them as long as they are received by 6:00 PM on Election Day. Those individuals who have excused absentee ballots can vote as early as October 26th and have more days in which they can vote, while those without an excuse are limited to three early voting days.
Early Voting Dates and Locations
To learn about early voting locations in your county, contact your county clerk’s website: https://elect.ky.gov/About-Us/Pages/County-Clerks.aspx
Contact Information
Find Local Contact Information
State Board of Elections
140 Walnut Street
Frankfort, Kentucky 40601
Contact page: https://elect.ky.gov/About-Us/Pages/Contact-Us.aspx
Phone:(502) 573-7100 or 1 (800) 246-1399
Fax: 502-573-4369
County Clerks page: https://elect.ky.gov/About-Us/Pages/County-Clerks.aspx
Louisiana
Eligibility
Who can register to vote?
To register to vote, you must be:
- A Louisiana resident
- A U.S. citizen
- At least 18 years of age by Election Day.
You must be registered at least 20 days before an election if registering online and at least 30 days before if doing so in person or by mail.
Who can pre-register?
You must be at least 16 years of age to register to vote in Louisiana. However, you will not be allowed to vote until you reach 18 years of age.
Felony Restrictions
If you were barred from voting due to a disqualifying felony conviction, you must first complete all of the terms of your sentence before you can have your voting rights restored.
Mental Capacity Restriction
If you have been declared mentally incompetent by a court, you will not be able to register to vote until your voting rights are restored.
How to Register
Easiest Way to Register
Other Ways to Register
You can also register to vote by mail or in person. Refer to the section “How to Register to Vote in Each State and Territory” for more information on your voting registration options.
Where to Check Voter Status
https://voterportal.sos.la.gov/
Absentee Ballot (Vote by Mail)
Louisiana voters do not need a reason to vote early.
Deadline to Request an Absentee Ballot
In Louisiana, your deadline to request an absentee ballot will depend on the type of application you are filling out. Registered voters requesting a general absentee ballot or one for disabled voters must request it no later than 4:30 p.m. Central Standard Time (CST) on the 4th day before Election Day. Military members, hospitalized voters and overseas citizens have until 4:30 p.m. CST on the day before Election Day.
Deadline to Submit an Absentee Ballot
Your ballot must be received by 4:30 p.m. CST no later than the day before Election Day. However, if you are overseas, hospitalized or in the military, your ballot must be received by 8 p.m. CST on Election Day.
How to Request an Absentee Ballot
Visit: https://www.sos.la.gov/ElectionsAndVoting/Vote/VoteByMail/Pages/default.aspx
- Option 1: Submit your request online here: https://voterportal.sos.la.gov/
- Click the “Search by Voter” button.
- Type in your information.
- Click the “Request Absentee Ballot” link under the Quick Links heading.
- Complete and submit the online form.
- Option 2: Download the absentee ballot request form and mail, hand deliver or fax your request to your parish registrar of voters. Find contact information for your registrar of voters here: https://voterportal.sos.la.gov/registrar
- Find the general absentee ballot request form here: https://www.sos.la.gov/ElectionsAndVoting/PublishedDocuments/GeneralApplicationForAbsenteeByMailBallot.pdf
- Find the disabled absentee ballot request form here: https://www.sos.la.gov/ElectionsAndVoting/PublishedDocuments/DisabledApplicationForAbsenteeByMailBallot.pdf
- Find the military or currently overseas absentee ballot here: https://www.sos.la.gov/ElectionsAndVoting/PublishedDocuments/MilitaryOverseasApplicationForAbsenteeByMailBallot.pdf
Voting Options
What to Bring
An acceptable form of photo identification such as one of the following:
- A driver’s license
- A Louisiana Special ID
- LA Wallet digital driver’s license
- A United States military identification card that contains your name and picture; or
- Some other generally recognized picture ID that contains your name and signature. If you do not have an acceptable form of identification, you may sign an affidavit instead.
Find Your Election Day Voting Location
https://voterportal.sos.la.gov/
Find Early Voting Dates and Locations
As a registered voter in Louisiana, you can vote early up to 15 days before Election Day. https://voterportal.sos.la.gov/earlyvoting
Contact Information
Find Local Contact Information
Elections Division
8585 Archives Ave.
Baton Rouge, LA 70809
Phone: (225) 922-0900
Fax: (225) 922-0945
Maine
State website: https://www.maine.gov/sos/cec/elec/index.html
Eligibility
Who can register to vote?
To register to vote, you must be:
- A Maine resident
- A U.S. citizen
- At least 18 years of age by Election Day.
There is NO deadline to register to vote in person at your local town office or city hall. However, if registering by mail or at a registration drive, you must do so no later than 21 days before Election Day.
Who can pre-register?
You must be at least 16 years of age to pre-register to vote. However, you will not be able to vote in a Referendum or General Election until you are 18 years of age. You may vote in a Primary Election if you are 17 years of age and will be 18 years of age by the General Election day.
Felony Restrictions
Maine permits all individuals with felony convictions, including those who are currently incarcerated or serving a sentence, to vote, as long as they meet the requirements listed above. All citizens who are convicted of a felony retain their right to vote.
Mental Capacity Restriction
If you have been declared mentally incompetent by a court, you will not be able to register to vote until your voting rights are restored.
How to Register
Easiest Way to Register
https://www.maine.gov/sos/cec/elec/upcoming/pdf/voterregcard20.pdf
Other Ways to Register
You can also contact your town clerk to have a voter registration form mailed to you. You can return your completed voter registration card in person or by mail. You can also register in person at your polling place on Election Day. Refer to the “Voter Registration” section for more information on your voting registration options.
Where to Check Voter Status
To find out about your voter status, contact your local municipal election official. Find contact information here: https://www.maine.gov/sos/cec/elec/munic.html
Absentee Ballot (Vote by Mail)
In Maine, you do not need an excuse to receive an absentee ballot. Any voter may cast an absentee ballot instead of voting in person on Election Day.
Deadline to Submit an Absentee Ballot
Your absentee ballot must be received by 8 p.m. on Election Day.
How to Request an Absentee Ballot
Visit: https://www.maine.gov/cgi-bin/online/AbsenteeBallot/index.pl
- Option 1: Submit your request online here: https://www.maine.gov/cgi-bin/online/AbsenteeBallot/index.pl
- Option 2: Download your absentee ballot request form here and mail it to your municipal clerk. You can get the request form here:
- For military and overseas: https://www.maine.gov/sos/cec/elec/fedpostcardapp.pdf
- Regular application: https://apps.web.maine.gov/online/AbsenteeBallot/ABS-2020-11-03.pdf
- Find your local municipal clerk here: https://www.maine.gov/sos/cec/elec/munic.html
Voting Options
What to Bring
When voting in person, you do not need to bring identification to the polling location.
Find Your Election Day Voting Location
https://www1.maine.gov/portal/government/edemocracy/voter_lookup.php
Information on Early Voting
While Maine residents statewide may cast a ballot before Election Day with an absentee ballot, they are also able to vote early in some municipalities. Maine has studied the feasibility of doing early in-person voting across the state, but to date has not put a program into place.
Contact Information
Find Local Contact Information
Bureau of Corporations, Elections and Commissions
101 State House Station
Augusta, ME 04333-0101
Email: CEC.Elections@maine.gov
Phone:(207) 624-7650
Fax: (207) 287-5428
Registrar Contact Page: https://www.maine.gov/sos/cec/elec/munic.html
Maryland
State website: https://elections.maryland.gov/
Eligibility
Who can register to vote?
To register to vote, you must be:
- A Maryland resident
- A U.S. citizen
- At least 16 years of age.
Who can pre-register?
You must be at least 16 years of age to pre-register to vote in Maryland. However, you will not be allowed to vote until you are at least 18 years of age by the next general election.
Felony Restrictions
If you were barred from voting due to a disqualifying felony conviction, you must first complete all of the terms of your sentence before you can have your voting rights restored.
Mental Capacity Restriction
If you have been declared mentally incompetent by a court, you will not be able to register to vote until your voting rights are restored.
How to Register
Easiest Way to Register
https://voterservices.elections.maryland.gov/OnlineVoterRegistration/InstructionsStep1
Other Ways to Register
You can also register to vote by mail or in person. Refer to the section “How to Register to Vote in Each State and Territory” for more information on your voting registration options.
Where to Check Voter Status
https://voterservices.elections.maryland.gov/VoterSearch
Absentee Ballot (Vote by Mail)
Any Maryland voter may vote by absentee ballot without an excuse.
Deadline to Submit an Absentee Ballot
You must submit your absentee ballot by mail or hand delivery. It must be received by 8 p.m on Election Day if submitting by hand and postmarked no later than Election Day if submitting by mail.
How to Request an Absentee Ballot
Visit: https://elections.maryland.gov/voting/absentee.html
- Option 1: Submit your request online: https://voterservices.elections.maryland.gov/OnlineVoterRegistration/InstructionsStep1
Note:
You must have a Maryland driver’s license or state ID card to submit your request online.
- Option 2: Download the absentee ballot request form and mail, fax or email the completed request form to your local board of elections office. Get the request form here: https://elections.maryland.gov/voting/documents/Absentee_Ballot_Application_English.pdf (English) / https://elections.maryland.gov/voting/documents/Absentee_Ballot_Application_Spanish.pdf (Spanish)
- Option 3: Visit your local board of elections to complete the request form in person.
Find local boards of elections contact information here: https://elections.maryland.gov/about/county_boards.html
Voting Options
What to Bring
Some first-time voters may have to present an acceptable form of ID.
Acceptable forms of ID include one of the following:
- A copy of a current and valid photo ID such as
- A Maryland driver’s license
- MVA ID card
- Student, employee or military ID card
- U.S. passport
- Any other state or federal government-issued ID card
- A copy of a current (dated within 3 months of the election) utility bill, bank statement, government check, paycheck or other government document showing your name and address
Find Your Election Day Voting Location
https://voterservices.elections.maryland.gov/PollingPlaceSearch
Information on Early Voting
To vote early, go to an early voting center in the county where you live. If you are not yet registered to vote, you may register at the early voting center; just bring identification showing your name and address. Early voting hours are from 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM and early voting lasts about a week.
Find Early Voting Dates and Locations
https://elections.maryland.gov/voting/early_voting_sites.html
Contact Information
Find Local Contact Information
Maryland State Board of Elections
Annapolis, MD 21401
Email: info.sbe@maryland.gov
Phone: (410) 269-2840
Fax: (410) 974-2019
(410) 974-5415
(410) 974-5126
County Boards contact page: https://elections.maryland.gov/about/county_boards.html
Massachusetts
State website: https://www.sec.state.ma.us/ele/eleidx.htm
Eligibility
Who can register to vote?
To register to vote, you must be:
- A Massachusetts resident
- A U.S. citizen
- At least 16 years of age.
The registration deadline is normally 20 days before an election.
Who can pre-register?
You must be at least 16 years of age to pre-register to vote. However, you must be 18 years of age by Election Day to vote.
Felony Restrictions
If you were barred from voting due to a disqualifying felony conviction, you must first complete all of the terms of your sentence before you can have your voting rights restored.
Mental Capacity Restriction
If you have been declared mentally incompetent by a court, you will not be able to register to vote until your voting rights are restored.
How to Register
Easiest Way to Register
https://www.sec.state.ma.us/ovr/
Other Ways to Register
You can also register to vote by mail or in person. Refer to the section “How to Register to Vote in Each State and Territory” for more information on your voting registration options.
Where to Check Voter Status
https://www.sec.state.ma.us/VoterRegistrationSearch/MyVoterRegStatus.aspx
Absentee Ballot (Vote by Mail)
No excuse is necessary to vote by mail in Massachusetts.
Deadline to Request an Absentee Ballot
In Massachusetts, your ballot request must be received in writing at least four business days before Election Day.
Deadline to Submit an Absentee Ballot
Typically, ballots must be received by the close of polls on Election Day.
How to Request an Absentee Ballot
Visit: https://www.sec.state.ma.us/ele/eleabsentee/absidx.htm
- Option 1: Download the absentee ballot request form and submit the completed form to your local elections office by mail, email or fax. Find the absentee ballot request form here: https://www.sec.state.ma.us/ele/elepdf/absentee/English-Absentee-Ballot-Application.pdf
Find your local election office contact information here: https://www.sec.state.ma.us/ele/eleev/ev-find-my-election-office.htm
Voting Options
What to Bring
Certain voters may be required to present an acceptable form of identification with their name and address (Ex: a Massachusetts driver’s license, recent utility bill, rent receipt). Acceptable forms of ID include:
- A driver’s license
- State-issued ID card
- A recent utility bill
- A rent receipt
- A lease
- A copy of a voter registration affidavit
- Any other printed identification which contains the voter’s name and address
Learn more about Massachusetts voter identification requirements here: https://www.sec.state.ma.us/ele/eleidreq/idrequirementsidx.htm
Find Your Election Day Voting Location
https://www.sec.state.ma.us/WhereDoIVoteMA/bal/MyElectionInfo.aspx
Information on Early Voting
Massachusetts has early voting for all state primaries and elections in addition to national elections. Cities and towns may begin counting early and absentee ballots before Election Day, but may not disclose the results until after the polls are closed on Election Day.
Find Early Voting Dates and Locations
https://www.sec.state.ma.us/ele/eleev/evidx.htm
Contact Information
Find Local Contact Information
Secretary of the Commonwealth
Elections Division McCormack
Building One Ashburton Place, Room 1705
Boston, MA 02108
Email: elections@sec.state.ma.us
Phone: 1 (800) 462-8683
Fax: (617) 742-3238
Election offices contact page: https://www.sec.state.ma.us/ele/eleev/ev-find-my-election-office.htm
Michigan
State website: https://www.michigan.gov/sos/0,4670,7-127-1633—,00.html
Eligibility
Who can register to vote?
To register to vote, you must be:
- A Michigan resident for at least 30 days
- A U.S. citizen
- At least 18 years of age by Election Day.
The deadline to register to vote is 15 days before Election Day for online or mail applications (must be postmarked by 15th day for mail).
Who can pre-register?
You must be at least 17 and a half years of age to pre-register to vote. However, you must turn 18 years of age by Election Day to vote.
Felony Restrictions
If you were barred from voting due to a disqualifying felony conviction, you must first complete all of the terms of your sentence before you can have your voting rights restored.
Mental Capacity Restriction
If you have been declared mentally incompetent by a court, you will not be able to register to vote until your voting rights are restored.
How to Register
Easiest Way to Register
https://mvic.sos.state.mi.us/RegisterVoter
Other Ways to Register
You can also register to vote by mail or in person. Refer to the section “How to Register to Vote in Each State and Territory” for more information on your voting registration options.
Where to Check Voter Status
https://mvic.sos.state.mi.us/Voter/Index
Absentee Ballot (Vote by Mail)
Any Michigan registered voter may request an absentee ballot with no excuse.
Deadline to Request an Absentee Ballot
In Michigan, your absentee ballot request must be received by 5 p.m. on the Friday before Election Day. If you are already registered at your current address, you may request an absentee ballot in person up until 4 p.m. on the day before Election Day.
Deadline to Submit an Absentee Ballot
Your absentee ballot must be received by 8 p.m. on Election Day.
How to Request an Absentee Ballot
Visit: https://www.michigan.gov/sos/all-services/absentee-ballot
- Option 1: Submit your request online here: https://mvic.sos.state.mi.us/AVApplication/Index
- Option 2: Download the absentee ballot request form and mail in or deliver your request to your city or township’s clerk’s office. Find the application form here: https://www.michigan.gov/documents/AbsentVoterBallot_105377_7.pdf
- Option 3: Call your city or township clerk to request an application be mailed to you. You can find your clerk’s contact information here: https://mvic.sos.state.mi.us/Voter/Index
Voting Options
What to Bring
An acceptable form of photo identification, such as:
- A Michigan driver’s license
- A Michigan personal identification card
- A driver’s license or personal ID card issued by another state
- Federal or state government-issued photo ID
- U.S. passport
- Military identification card with photo
- Student identification with photo from a high school or accredited institution of higher education
- Tribal identification card with photo
If you do not have an ID with you, you may sign a form at the polls instead. Learn more here: https://www.michigan.gov/sos/0,4670,7-127-1633_8716-178123–,00.html
Find Your Election Day Voting Location
https://mvic.sos.state.mi.us/Voter/Index
Information on Early Voting
Other than vote-by-mail, Michigan does not have early voting.
Find Early Voting Dates and Locations
You must apply for an absentee ballot in order to vote early. Learn more here: https://www.michigan.gov/documents/sos/Vote_Early_702122_7.pdf
Contact Information
Find Local Contact Information
Michigan Department of State
Bureau of Elections
PO Box 20126
Lansing, MI 48901-0726
Michigan Secretary of State contact form: https://mdossupport.happyfox.com/new
Phone: (517) 335-3234
Fax: (517) 335-3235
Clerk contact information: https://mvic.sos.state.mi.us/Voter/Index
Minnesota
Eligibility
Who can register to vote?
To register to vote, you must be:
- A Minnesota resident for at least 20 days
- A U.S. citizen
- At least 18 years of age by Election Day.
You may register at your polling place through Election Day.
Who can pre-register?
You must be at least 17 years of age to pre-register to vote in Minnesota. However, to vote in the next election, you must be 18 years of age by Election Day.
Felony Restrictions
If you were barred from voting due to a disqualifying felony conviction, you must first complete all of the terms of your sentence before you can have your voting rights restored.
Mental Capacity Restriction
If you have been declared mentally incompetent by a court, you will not be able to register to vote until your voting rights are restored.
How to Register
Easiest Way to Register
https://mnvotes.sos.state.mn.us/VoterRegistration/VoterRegistrationMain.aspx
Other Ways to Register
You can also register to vote by mail or in person. Refer to the section “How to Register to Vote in Each State and Territory” for more information on your voting registration options.
Where to Check Voter Status
https://mnvotes.sos.state.mn.us/VoterStatus.aspx
Absentee Ballot (Vote by Mail)
Minnesota voters do not need an excuse to get an absentee ballot.
Deadline to Request an Absentee Ballot
In Minnesota, you have until the end of day before Election Day to request your absentee ballot.
Deadline to Submit an Absentee Ballot
If delivering your ballot in person, you must submit it by 3 p.m. on Election day.
How to Request an Absentee Ballot
Visit: https://www.sos.state.mn.us/elections-voting/other-ways-to-vote/vote-early-by-mail/
- Option 1: Submit your request online here: https://mnvotes.sos.state.mn.us/ABRegistration/ABRegistrationStep1.aspx
- Option 2: Download the absentee ballot request form and mail, fax or email your request to your local county election office. Find the absentee ballot request form here: https://www.sos.state.mn.us/media/2444/english-regular-absentee-ballot-application.pdf
Find the contact information for your county election office here: https://www.sos.state.mn.us/elections-voting/find-county-election-office/
Voting Options
What to Bring
If you need to register or update your registration on Election Day, you will need to present an acceptable form of identification with your current name and address. Otherwise, no identification is necessary when voting in person.
When registering at the polling place bring:
- One of these:
- Valid Minnesota driver’s license, learner’s permit or ID; or a receipt for any of these
- Tribal ID with name, address, photo and signature
- OR both an approved photo ID (may be expired)
- Driver’s license, state ID or learner’s permit issued by any state
- U.S. Passport
- U.S. Military or Veteran ID
- Tribal ID with name, signature and photo
- Minnesota university, college or technical college ID
- Minnesota high school ID
- AND one of the following documents (which may be shown on an electronic device):
- Bill, account or start-of-service statement due or dated within 30 days of the election for:
- Phone, TV or internet
- Solid waste, sewer, electric, gas or water
- Banking or credit card
- Rent or mortgage
- Residential lease or rent agreement valid through Election Day
- Current student fee statement
- Bill, account or start-of-service statement due or dated within 30 days of the election for:
If you do not have any of the previous documentation, there are other ways to verify your identity at the polls. Learn more about Minnesota’s voter ID requirements here: https://www.sos.state.mn.us/elections-voting/register-to-vote/register-on-election-day/
Find Your Election Day Voting Location
https://pollfinder.sos.state.mn.us/
Information on Early Voting
In addition to mailing in your absentee ballot, Minnesotans can vote early in person by turning their absentee ballot to the officials at their local elections office. In addition, some cities and towns offer in-person early voting. For most elections, early voting begins 46 days before Election Day. Locations offering absentee ballots for federal, state or county elections (not including school districts holding standalone elections) are required to be open the last Saturday before Election Day from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM and the day before Election Day until 5:00 PM.
Find Early Voting Dates and Locations
Early Voting in Person
https://www.sos.state.mn.us/elections-voting/other-ways-to-vote/vote-early-in-person/
Early Voting by Mail
https://www.sos.state.mn.us/elections-voting/other-ways-to-vote/vote-early-by-mail/
Contact Information
Find Local Contact Information
180 State Office Building
100 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.
Saint Paul, MN 55155
County election office contact information: https://www.sos.state.mn.us/elections-voting/find-county-election-office
Metro Area: (651) 215-1440
Greater MN: 1 (877) 600-8683
Fax: (651) 296-9073
Mississippi
State website: <a href="https://www.sos.ms.gov/elections-voting/voter-registration-information
Eligibility
Who can register to vote?
To register to vote, you must be:
- A Mississippi resident for at least 30 days leading up to Election Day
- A U.S. citizen
- At least 18 years of age by Election Day.
If you are 17 years of age but turning 18 years of age by the General Election date, you may vote in the Primary Election.
In Mississippi, you must register to vote at least 30 days before Election Day.
Felony Restrictions
If you were barred from voting due to a disqualifying felony conviction, you must first complete all of the terms of your sentence before you can have your voting rights restored.
Mental Capacity Restriction
If you have been declared mentally incompetent by a court, you will not be able to register to vote until your voting rights are restored.
How to Register
Easiest Way to Register
https://www.ms.gov/sos/voter_registration/documents/voter_registration_application.pdf
Other Ways to Register
You can also register to vote by mail or in person. Refer to the section “How to Register to Vote in Each State and Territory” for more information on your voting registration options.
Where to Check Voter Status
https://www.msegov.com/sos/voter_registration/amiregistered/Search
Absentee Ballot (Vote by Mail)
Mississippi residents who want to vote by absentee ballot must have a valid excuse for doing so. Valid excuses include:
- Temporarily residing outside of their county of residence, and the ballot must be mailed to an address outside the county.
- Having a temporary or permanent physical disability and who, because of such disability, is unable to vote in person without substantial hardship to himself, herself or others, or whose attendance at the voting place could reasonably cause danger to himself, herself or others.
- The parent, spouse or dependent of a person with a temporary or permanent physical disability who is hospitalized outside of his or her county of residence or more than fifty (50) miles distant from his or her residence, if the parent, spouse or dependent will be with such person on election day.
- Any person who is sixty-five (65) years of age or older.
Deadline to Request an Absentee Ballot
Contact your County Election office to learn more: https://www.sos.ms.gov/absentee-voting-information
Deadline to Submit an Absentee Ballot
Mail-in ballots must be postmarked by Election Day.
How to Request an Absentee Ballot
- Contact your County Election office to learn more: https://www.sos.ms.gov/elections-voting/county-election-information
Voting Options
What to Bring
An acceptable form of photo identification including one of the following:
- A driver’s license (including a Digital ID provided by the Mississippi Department of Public Safety)
- A photo ID card issued by a branch, department, or entity of the State of Mississippi
- A United States passport
- A government employee ID card
- A firearms license
- A student photo ID issued by an accredited Mississippi university, college, or community/junior college
- A United States military ID
- A tribal photo ID
- Any other photo ID issued by any branch, department, agency or entity of the United States government or any State government
- A Mississippi Voter Identification Card
Learn more here: https://msvoterid.ms.gov/Pages/Forms/FAQ%20Voter%20ID.pdf
Find Your Election Day Voting Location
https://myelectionday.sos.state.ms.us/VoterOutreach/Pages/VOSearch.aspx
Early Voting Dates and Locations
Mississippi does not allow early voting. Instead, you can contact your county election office to register to vote in-person absentee. Find contact information here: https://www.sos.ms.gov/absentee-voting-information
Contact Information
Find Local Contact Information
P. O. Box 136
Jackson, MS 39205-0136
Email: secretary.state@state.mn.us
Phone: 1 (800) 829-6786
Fax: (601) 576-2545
County election Contact Information: <a href="https://www.sos.ms.gov/contact-us-information
Missouri
State website: https://www.sos.mo.gov/elections
Eligibility
Who can register to vote?
To register to vote, you must be:
- A Missouri resident
- A U.S. citizen
- At least 18 years of age by Election Day.
Who can pre-register?
You must be at least 17 years and 6 months old to register to vote. However, you will not be allowed to vote until you turn 18 years of age.
Felony Restrictions
If you were barred from voting due to a disqualifying felony conviction, you must first complete all of the terms of your sentence before you can have your voting rights restored.
Mental Capacity Restriction
If you have been declared mentally incompetent by a court, you will not be able to register to vote until your voting rights are restored.
How to Register
Easiest Way to Register
https://s1.sos.mo.gov/elections/voterregistration/
Other Ways to Register
You can also register to vote by mail or in person. Refer to the section “How to Register to Vote in Each State and Territory” for more information on your voting registration options.
Where to Check Voter Status
https://s1.sos.mo.gov/elections/voterlookup/
Absentee Ballot (Vote by Mail)
Missouri voters must have a reason to receive an absentee ballot. Valid reasons include:
- Absence on Election Day from the jurisdiction of the election authority in which such voter is registered to vote;
- Incapacity or confinement due to illness or physical disability on election day, including a person who is primarily responsible for the physical care of a person who is incapacitated or confined due to illness or disability and resides at the same address;
- Religious belief or practice;
- Employment as an election authority or by an election authority at a location other than such voter’s polling place, a first responder, a health care worker, or a member of law enforcement;
- Incarceration, provided all qualifications for voting are retained.
- Certified participation in the address confidentiality program established under sections 589.660 to 589.681 because of safety concerns.
Deadline to Request an Absentee Ballot
Your absentee ballot request must be received by 5 p.m. on the second Wednesday before Election Day. You may vote by absentee in person until 5 p.m. on the day before Election Day.
Deadline to Submit an Absentee Ballot
Your absentee ballot must be received by 7 p.m. on Election Day.
How to Request an Absentee Ballot
Visit: https://www.sos.mo.gov/elections/goVoteMissouri/howtovote#absentee
- Option 1: Download the absentee ballot request form and mail in your request to your local election authority. Find the request form here: https://www.sos.mo.gov/CMSImages/ElectionGoVoteMissouri/AbsenteeBallotRequestForm.pdf
- Option 2: Visit your local election authority and request the ballot in person. Find contact information for your local election authority here: https://www.sos.mo.gov/elections/govotemissouri/localelectionauthority
Voting Options
What to Bring
An acceptable form of photo identification such as:
- A valid Missouri driver or non-driver license
- A valid military ID, including a veteran’s ID card
- A valid United States passport
- Another photo ID issued by the United States or the state of Missouri which is either not expired or expired after the date of the most recent general election.
Learn more about Missouri’s voter ID requirements here: https://www.sos.mo.gov/elections/goVoteMissouri/howtovote#Forms
Find Your Election Day Voting Location
https://voteroutreach.sos.mo.gov/PRD/VoterOutreach/VOSearch.aspx
Early Voting Dates and Locations
Missouri does not allow early voting.
Contact Information
Find Local Contact Information
600 West Main Street
Jefferson City, MO 65101
Local election authorities contact information: https://www.sos.mo.gov/elections/goVoteMissouri/localelectionauthority
Phone: (573) 751-4936
Montana
State website: https://sosmt.gov/elections
Eligibility
Who can register to vote?
To register to vote, you must be:
- A Montana resident for at least 30 days leading up to Election Day
- A U.S. citizen
- At least 18 years of age by Election Day.
You must register to vote at least 30 days before an election. However, you can complete late registration in person at your county election office up to the close of polls on Election Day.
Felony Restrictions
If you were barred from voting due to a disqualifying felony conviction, you must first complete all of the terms of your sentence before you can have your voting rights restored.
Mental Capacity Restriction
If you have been declared mentally incompetent by a court, you will not be able to register to vote until your voting rights are restored.
How to Register
Easiest Way to Register
https://sosmt.gov/Portals/142/Elections/Forms/Voter_Registration_Application.pdf
Other Ways to Register
You can also register to vote in person at your local elections office. If you did not vote in a federal general election and failed to respond to two confirmation mailings from the county election office or if your ballot was returned as undeliverable, your voter registration may have become inactive. To reactivate your voter registration, contact your county elections office by phone or in writing, appearing at a polling place to update your registration information or requesting an absentee ballot and submitting an updated voter registration form. Refer to the section “How to Register to Vote in Each State and Territory” for more information on your voting registration options.
Where to Check Voter Status
Absentee Ballot (Vote by Mail)
You do not need to provide a reason in order to get an absentee ballot in Montana.
Deadline to Request an Absentee Ballot
In Montana, you have until noon the day before Election Day to request an absentee ballot.
Deadline to Submit an Absentee Ballot
Your absentee ballot must be received by 8 p.m. on Election Day whether you are submitting it in person by mail.
How to Request an Absentee Ballot
Visit: https://sosmt.gov/elections/absentee/
- Option 1: Download the absentee ballot application form and mail or hand deliver your request to your local county elections office. Find the application form here: https://sosmt.gov/elections/official-forms/#
Find contact information for your local election office here: https://sosmt.gov/Portals/142/Elections/Forms/electionadministrators.pdf
Voting Options
What to Bring
An acceptable form of photo ID such as:
- A Montana driver’s license
- Montana state identification card
- Military identification card
- Tribal photo identification card
- United States passport
- Montana concealed carry permit
If you do not have one of these photo IDs, you can provide a document with your name and address such as:
- Current utility bill
- Bank statement
- Paycheck
- Government check
- Other government document AND
- A photo ID with your name on it including a student ID
Learn more about Montana’s voter ID laws here: https://sosmt.gov/elections/faq/#identification
Find Your Election Day Voting Location
Find Early Voting Dates and Locations
In Montana, early voting means requesting and submitting an absentee ballot.
Contact Information
Find Local Contact Information
Montana Secretary of State
Elections and Voter Services Division
P.O. Box 202801
Helena, MT 59620-2801
Email: soselections@mt.gov
Phone: 1 (406) 444-9608
Fax: (406) 444-2023
Local election offices contact information: https://sosmt.gov/Portals/142/Elections/Forms/electionadministrators.pdf
Nebraska
State website: https://sos.nebraska.gov/elections/registering-vote
Eligibility
Who can register to vote?
To register to vote, you must be:
- A Nebraska resident
- A U.S. citizen
- At least 18 years of age by Election Day.
You must register to vote by the third Friday before Election Day.
Felony Restrictions
If you were barred from voting due to a disqualifying felony conviction, you must first complete all of the terms of your sentence before you can have your voting rights restored.
Mental Capacity Restriction
If you have been declared mentally incompetent by a court, you will not be able to register to vote until your voting rights are restored.
How to Register
Easiest Way to Register
https://www.nebraska.gov/apps-sos-voter-registration/
Other Ways to Register
You can also register to vote by mail or in person. Refer to the section “How to Register to Vote in Each State and Territory” for more information on your voting registration options.
Where to Check Voter Status
https://www.votercheck.necvr.ne.gov/voterview
Absentee Ballot (Vote by Mail)
No excuse is necessary to get a vote-by-mail ballot in Nebraska.
Deadline to Request an Absentee Ballot
In Nebraska, you have until the second Friday before Election Day to request an absentee/early voting ballot.
Deadline to Submit an Absentee Ballot
Your absentee ballot must be received by 8 p.m. CT / 7 p.m. MT on Election Day.
How to Request an Absentee Ballot
Visit: https://sos.nebraska.gov/elections/early-voting-0
- Option 1: Download the absentee ballot request form and email, mail or fax your request to your local county elections office. Find your absentee ballot request form here: https://sos.nebraska.gov/sites/sos.nebraska.gov/files/doc/elections/earlyvote_app_fill.pdf (English) / https://sos.nebraska.gov/sites/sos.nebraska.gov/files/doc/elections/spanish_early_voting_fill.pdf (Spanish)
- Option 2: Visit your county elections office and request a ballot in person.
Find your county election office contact information here: https://sos.nebraska.gov/elections/election-officials-contact-information
Voting Options
What to Bring
First-time Nebraska voters who did not provide ID or proof of Nebraska residence when registering by mail may need to show an acceptable form of photo identification such as a Nebraska driver’s license, U.S. passport or proof of residence (Ex.: utility bill, bank statement, government check, other government document or paycheck) at the polls.
Find Your Election Day Voting Location
https://www.votercheck.necvr.ne.gov/voterview
Information on Early Voting
Early voting begins 30 days before Election Day for a primary or general election or 15 days before Election Day for any other election. The earliest you can return your vote-by-mail ballot by mail is 35 days before Election Day.
Find Early Voting Dates and Locations
https://sos.nebraska.gov/elections/early-voting-0
Contact Information
Find Local Contact Information
Nebraska Secretary of State
P.O. Box 94608
Lincoln, NE 68509-4608
Email: sos.elect@nebraska.gov
Election Offices contact information: https://sos.nebraska.gov/elections/election-officials-contact-information
Phone: (402) 471-2554
Fax: (402) 471-3237
Secretary of State contact form: https://sos.nebraska.gov/contact
Nevada
State website: https://www.nvsos.gov/sos/elections/voters/
Eligibility
Who can register to vote?
To register to vote, you must be:
- A Nevada resident for at least 30 days leading up to Election Day
- A U.S. citizen
- At least 18 years of age by Election Day.
Who can pre-register?
You must be at least 17 years of age to pre-register to vote. However, you will not be able to vote until you turn 18 years of age.
Felony Restrictions
If you were barred from voting due to a disqualifying felony conviction, you must first complete all of the terms of your sentence before you can have your voting rights restored.
Mental Capacity Restriction
If you have been declared mentally incompetent by a court, you will not be able to register to vote until your voting rights are restored. Learn more about Nevada voting rights restoration guidelines here: https://www.nvsos.gov/sos/elections/voters/restoration-of-voting-rights-in-nevada
How to Register
Easiest Way to Register
https://www.nvsos.gov/sosvoterservices/Registration/Step0.aspx
Other Ways to Register
You can also register to vote by mail or in person at a polling place. Refer to the section “How to Register to Vote in Each State and Territory” for more information on your voting registration options.
Where to Check Voter Status
https://www.nvsos.gov/votersearch/
Absentee Ballot (Vote by Mail)
All registered voters in Nevada automatically receive a ballot by mail and do not need an excuse to use it to vote absentee or early. Voters may opt out from receiving mailed ballots.
Deadline to Request an Absentee Ballot
In Nevada, you must submit your request no later than 14 days before the election.
Deadline to Submit an Absentee Ballot
Your absentee ballot must be received by 7 p.m. on Election Day if returning it in person. If returning it by mail, it must be postmarked by Election Day and be received no later than seven days after Election Day.
How to Request an Absentee Ballot
Visit: https://www.nvsos.gov/sos/elections/voters/voters-with-disabilities/absentee-voting
- Download the absentee ballot request form. Complete the form and mail or hand-deliver your request to your local county clerk or Registrar of Voters office. Find the request form here: https://www.nvsos.gov/sos/home/showdocument?id=8262
Find your County Clerk / Registrar of Voters contact information here: https://www.nvsos.gov/sos/elections/voters/county-clerk-contact-information
Voting Options
What to Bring
Some voters may need to present an acceptable form of photo identification including one of the following:
- Nevada Driver’s license
- ID issued from the Nevada DMV
- U.S. passport or passport card
- Employee ID card issued by U.S. Government, State, County, Municipality, Board, Authority, or other subdivision of Nevada
- Pilots license issued by the Federal Aviation Administration or other authorized agency in the U.S.
- U.S. Military ID card
- Valid Veteran ID card issued by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Veterans Health Administration
- Medicare or Medicaid card issued by the U.S. Health Care Financing Administration
- Certified copy of birth certificate issued in the U.S.
- Certified copy of naturalization
- Valid student ID card issued by an institution of higher education in Nevada
- Valid ID issued by a federally recognized tribal government certifying tribal membership.
Find Your Election Day Voting Location
https://www.nvsos.gov/sos/elections/election-information/2022-election-information/voting-locations
Information on Early Voting
Early voting begins 17 days before Election Day and ends 4 days before Election Day. Not all polling locations offer early voting, so you will need to check the voting locations in your city, tribe or county to know where to go for early in-person voting.
Find Early Voting Dates and Locations
https://www.nvsos.gov/sos/elections/voters/early-voting-information
Contact Information
Find Local Contact Information
01 North Carson Street, Suite 3
Carson City, NV 89701-3714
Email: nvelect@sos.nv.gov.
Phone: (775) 684-5705
Fax: (775) 684-5718
County Clerk / Registrar of Voters contact information: https://www.nvsos.gov/sos/elections/voters/absentee-voting
New Hampshire
State website: <a href="https://www.sos.nh.gov/elections
Eligibility
Who can register to vote?
To register to vote, you must be:
- A New Hampshire resident
- A U.S. citizen
- At least 18 years of age by Election Day.
In New Hampshire, the deadline to register to vote is Election Day.
Felony Restrictions
If you were barred from voting due to a disqualifying felony conviction, you must first complete all of the terms of your sentence before you can have your voting rights restored.
Mental Capacity Restriction
If you have been declared mentally incompetent by a court, you will not be able to register to vote until your voting rights are restored.
How to Register
Easiest Way to Register
In person at your local town or city clerk’s office. Find contact information for your town or city’s clerk office here: https://www.sos.nh.gov/elections/register-vote/town-or-city-clerks-office
Other Ways to Register
You can also register to vote at the polls on election day. Refer to the section “How to Register to Vote in Each State and Territory” for more information on your voting registration options.
Where to Check Voter Status
Absentee Ballot (Vote by Mail)
In order to vote by absentee ballot, you must have one of the following reasons during the entire time the polls are open:
- Being absent from the voter’s city or town
- Religious observance
- Disability or illness
- Employment commitments (including caregiving)
- Weather emergency
Deadline to Request an Absentee Ballot
Contact your town or city clerk’s office for details: https://www.sos.nh.gov/elections/register-vote/town-or-city-clerks-office
Deadline to Submit an Absentee Ballot
Your absentee ballot must be received by 5 p.m. on Election Day by your town or city’s clerk to count in the election.
How to Request an Absentee Ballot
Visit: https://sos.nh.gov/elections/voters/absentee-ballots/
- Download the absentee ballot request form and mail, fax or hand deliver your request to your local city or town clerk’s office. Find the application here: https://sos.nh.gov/media/rs0ly4xu/absentee-ballot-app-8-20-covid.pdf. Find the absentee ballot for uniformed and overseas citizens here: https://sos.nh.gov/elections/voters/uniformed-overseas/request-absentee-ballot/
Voting Options
What to Bring
An acceptable form of photo identification such as one of the following:
- Driver’s license issued by any state or federal government
- Non-driver ID card issued by NH DMV or motor vehicle agency of another state
- Photo ID card for “voting identification only” issued by NH DMV
- United States armed services identification card
- United States passport or passport card
- NH student ID card (licensed New Hampshire college, university or career school, public or private accredited high school, Dartmouth College)
- A photo ID not mentioned above, but determined to be legitimate by the moderator, supervisors of the checklist, or clerk of a town, ward or city.
- Verification of the voter’s identity by a moderator or supervisor of the checklist or clerk of a town, ward or city (not a ballot clerk).
Find Your Election Day Voting Location
https://app.sos.nh.gov/pollingplacesampleballot
Early Voting Dates and Locations
New Hampshire does not allow early voting.
Contact Information
Find Local Contact Information
Secretary of State’s Office Elections Division – Administration
The State House, Room 204
107 North Main Street
Concord, N.H. 03301
Email: elections@sos.nh.gov
Phone: (603) 271-3242
Fax: (603) 271-6316
Town and city clerk’s offices contact information: <a href="https://www.sos.nh.gov/elections/register-vote/town-or-city-clerks-office
New Jersey
State website: https://www.state.nj.us/state/elections
Eligibility
Who can register to vote?
To register to vote, you must be:
- A resident of your New Jersey county for at least 30 days leading up to Election Day
- A U.S. citizen
- At least 18 years of age by Election Day.
You must register to vote at least 21 days before an election.
Who can pre-register?
You must be at least 17 years of age to pre-register to vote in New Jersey. However, you will not be able to vote until you reach 18 years of age.
Felony Restrictions
If you were barred from voting due to a disqualifying felony conviction, you must first complete all of the terms of your sentence before you can have your voting rights restored.
Mental Capacity Restriction
If you have been declared mentally incompetent by a court, you will not be able to register to vote until your voting rights are restored.
How to Register
Easiest Way to Register
https://voter.svrs.nj.gov/register
Other Ways to Register
You can also register to vote by mail. Refer to the section “How to Register to Vote in Each State and Territory” for more information on your voting registration options.
Where to Check Voter Status
https://voter.svrs.nj.gov/registration-check
Absentee Ballot (Vote by Mail)
Any New Jersey voter may opt to vote by mail without need for an excuse.
Deadline to Request an Absentee Ballot
If you’re requesting a ballot by mail, the county clerk office must receive your application no later than seven days before Election Day. If you apply in person, you can request a ballot until 3 p.m. on the day before Election Day.
Deadline to Submit an Absentee Ballot
If hand delivered, your ballot must be received by the closing of the polls on Election Day (8 p.m.).
If mailing your ballot, your ballot must be postmarked by Election Day and received no later than 48 hours after the closing of the polls.
How to Request an Absentee Ballot
Visit: https://www.state.nj.us/state/elections/vote-by-mail.shtml
- Option 1: Download your county’s absentee ballot request form and mail in your request to your county clerk’s office. Find the form here: https://www.state.nj.us/state/elections/vote-by-mail.shtml
Find your county clerk’s contact information here: https://www.state.nj.us/state/elections/vote-county-election-officials.shtml
Voting Options
What to Bring
First-time voters in federal elections may need to provide an acceptable form of photo identification such as a NJ driver’s license, U.S. passport, student ID card). Other voters do not need to show identification at the polls.
Find Your Election Day Voting Location
https://voter.svrs.nj.gov/polling-place-search
Information on Early Voting
Every county in New Jersey offers early in-person voting with between three and ten voting locations per county, depending on each county’s size. Early voting locations will be open at least from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM Mondays through Saturdays and 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM on Sundays.
Find Early Voting Dates and Locations
Check with your county election official: https://www.state.nj.us/state/elections/county-eo.shtml
Contact Information
Find Local Contact Information
NJ Division of Elections
P.O. Box 304
Trenton, NJ 08625-0304
Email: njelections@sos.nj.gov
Phone: 1 (877) 659-6837
Fax: (609) 777-1280
New Mexico
Eligibility
Who can register to vote?
To register to vote, you must be:
- A New Mexico resident
- A U.S. citizen
- At least 18 years of age by Election Day.
If you are 17 years of age and you will be 18 years of age by the General Election date, you may vote in the Primary.
If registering by mail or online, you must register at least 28 days before Election Day. If registering in person, you may do so until the Saturday before Election Day
Felony Restrictions
If you were barred from voting due to a disqualifying felony conviction, you must first complete all of the terms of your sentence before you can have your voting rights restored.
Mental Capacity Restriction
If you have been declared mentally incompetent by a court, you will not be able to register to vote until your voting rights are restored.
How to Register
Easiest Way to Register
https://portal.sos.state.nm.us/OVR/WebPages/InstructionsStep1.aspx
Other Ways to Register
You can also register to vote by mail. Refer to the section “How to Register to Vote in Each State and Territory” for more information on your voting registration options.
Where to Check Voter Status
https://voterportal.servis.sos.state.nm.us/wheretovote.aspx
Absentee Ballot (Vote by Mail)
New Mexico voters do not need an excuse to vote by mail or with an absentee ballot.
Deadline to Request an Absentee Ballot
In New Mexico, you must request your ballot no later than 14 days before Election Day.
Deadline to Submit an Absentee Ballot
Your absentee ballot must be received by 7 p.m. on Election Day.
How to Request an Absentee Ballot
Visit: https://www.sos.state.nm.us/voting-and-elections/voter-information-portal/absentee-and-early-voting/
- Option 1: Submit your request online here: https://portal.sos.state.nm.us/OVR/WebPages/AbsenteeApplication.aspx
- Option 2: Download the absentee ballot request form and mail in your request to your local County Clerk’s Office. Find the request form on the webpage here: https://www.sos.state.nm.us/voting-and-elections/voter-information-portal/absentee-and-early-voting/#
- You may instead request an absentee ballot request form by contacting your County Clerk’s Office in person, by phone, by mail or by email.
- Find your County Clerk’s contact information here: https://www.sos.state.nm.us/voting-and-elections/voter-information-portal/county-clerk-information/
Voting Options
What to Bring
Most voters do not need to bring identification when voting in person in New Mexico in statewide elections. However, some cities require identification to be presented when voting in city elections. Contact your local municipal government for acceptable forms of identification.
Find Your Election Day Voting Location
https://voterportal.servis.sos.state.nm.us/WhereToVote.aspx
Information on Early Voting
Early voting begins 4 weeks before Election Day. Some counties may have expanded early voting locations and times. Early voting ends the Saturday before Election Day.
Find Early Voting Dates and Locations
https://www.sos.state.nm.us/voting-and-elections/voting-faqs/early-voting-in-person/
Contact Information
Find Local Contact Information
325 Don Gaspar, Suite 300
Santa Fe, NM 87501
Email: Sos.elections@state.nm.us
Phone: (505) 827-3600
Contact Page: https://www.sos.state.nm.us/contact-us
New York
State website: https://www.elections.ny.gov
Eligibility
Who can register to vote?
To register to vote, you must be:
- A New York resident for at least 30 days leading up to Election Day
- A U.S. citizen
- At least 18 years of age by Election Day.
Who can pre-register?
You must be at least 16 years of age to pre-register to vote in NY. However, you will not be allowed to vote until you reach 18 years of age.
Felony Restrictions
If you were barred from voting due to a disqualifying felony conviction, you must first complete all of the terms of your sentence before you can have your voting rights restored.
Mental Capacity Restriction
If you have been declared mentally incompetent by a court, you will not be able to register to vote until your voting rights are restored.
How to Register
Easiest Way to Register
https://www.ny.gov/services/register-vote
Other Ways to Register
You can also register to vote by mail. Refer to the section “How to Register to Vote in Each State and Territory” for more information on your voting registration options.
Where to Check Voter Status
https://voterlookup.elections.ny.gov/
Absentee Ballot (Vote by Mail)
In order to get an absentee ballot, you must have one of the following reasons:
- Absent from your county or, if a resident of New York City absent from the five boroughs, on Election Day
- Unable to appear at the polls due to temporary or permanent illness or disability (temporary illness includes being unable to appear due to risk of contracting or spreading a communicable disease like COVID-19)
- Unable to appear in person because you are the primary caregiver of one or more individuals who are ill or physically disabled
- A resident or patient of a Veterans Health Administration Hospital
- In jail or prison for any reason other than a felony conviction. This includes anyone who is awaiting grand jury action, awaiting trial, or serving a sentence for a misdemeanor.
Deadline to Request an Absentee Ballot
In New York, you have until the seventh day before Election Day if submitting your application online, by mail, by email or by fax. If applying in person, you have until the day before Election Day.
Deadline to Submit an Absentee Ballot
Your ballot must be postmarked by Election Day.
How to Request an Absentee Ballot
Visit: https://www.elections.ny.gov/votingabsentee.html
- Option 1: Request your ballot online here: https://absenteeballot.elections.ny.gov/
- Option 2: Download the absentee ballot application form and mail in your request to your local county elections office. Find the application here: https://www.elections.ny.gov/NYSBOE/download/voting/AbsenteeBallot-English.pdf (English) / https://www.elections.ny.gov/NYSBOE/download/voting/AbsenteeBallot-Spanish.pdf (Spanish)
- Alternatively, you may request an absentee ballot application form by emailing, calling, faxing or visiting your local county board of elections.
- Option 3: Visit your local county board of elections office and apply in person.
- Find your county board of elections contact information here: https://www.elections.ny.gov/CountyBoards.html
Voting Options
What to Bring
If you did not provide ID with your registration application, you may need to present an acceptable form of identification at the polls such as:
- Current and valid photo ID
- Current utility bill
- Bank statement
- Government check
- Paycheck
- Government document that shows name and address
Learn more about New York’s voter ID requirements here: https://vote.nyc/page/voter-id
Find Your Election Day Voting Location
https://voterlookup.elections.ny.gov/
Information on Early Voting
New York voters can participate in early voting at any of the early voting centers in their county unless they live in New York City. In NYC, voters are assigned to one early voting site, depending on their address.
Early voting for primaries, general and special elections begins on the second Saturday prior to Election Day and ends on the Sunday before Election Day. Local election boards are required to offer at least 72 hours of early voting, including weekday voting between 7:00 AM and 8:00 and weekend/holiday voting between 9:00 AM and 8:00 PM.
Find your early voting location here: https://www.voteearlyny.org/.
Contact Information
Find Local Contact Information
NYS Board Of Elections
40 North Pearl Street, Suite 5
Albany, NY 12207-2729
Email: INFO@elections.ny.gov
Phone: (518) 474-6220
Contact page: https://www.elections.ny.gov/Contact.html
North Carolina
State website: https://www.ncsbe.gov
Eligibility
Who can register to vote?
To register to vote, you must be:
- A resident of your North Carolina county for at least 30 days leading up to Election Day
- A U.S. citizen
- At least 18 years of age by Election Day.
You must register to vote at least 25 days before an election. If you miss this deadline, you may still vote using same-day registration in your county during the early voting period.
Who can pre-register?
You must be at least 16 years of age to pre-register to vote in North Carolina. However, you will not be able to vote in a General Election until you reach 18 years of age. If you are 17 years of age and you will be 18 years of age by the General Election date, you may vote in the Primary.
Felony Restrictions
If you were barred from voting due to a disqualifying felony conviction, you must first complete all of the terms of your sentence before you can have your voting rights restored.
Mental Capacity Restriction
If you have been declared mentally incompetent by a court, you will not be able to register to vote until your voting rights are restored.
How to Register
Easiest Way to Register
Other Ways to Register
You can also register to vote by mail. Refer to the section “How to Register to Vote in Each State and Territory” for more information on your voting registration options.
Where to Check Voter Status
Absentee Ballot (Vote by Mail)
No reason or excuse is needed to get an absentee ballot in North Carolina.
Deadline to Request an Absentee Ballot
In North Carolina, you have until 5 p.m. on the Tuesday before Election day to request an absentee ballot.
Deadline to Submit an Absentee Ballot
Ballots returned in person at a board of elections office must be received by Election Day.
If returning the ballot by mail, it must be postmarked on Election Day.
How to Request an Absentee Ballot
- Option 1: Request your absentee ballot online here: https://votebymail.ncsbe.gov/app/home
- Option 2: Download the absentee ballot request form and return it to your local county elections office in person, by mail, by email or by fax.
- Once the form becomes available, find and download it here: https://www.ncsbe.gov/voting/vote-mail
- Find contact information for your county’s board of elections here: https://vt.ncsbe.gov/BOEInfo/
Voting Options
What to Bring
Voter ID is not required for North Carolina elections held in 2020. Find updates and more information here: https://www.ncsbe.gov/voting/voter-id
Find Your Election Day Voting Location
Information on Early Voting
Early voting begins 20 days before Election Day and ends the Saturday before Election Day. North Carolina voters may vote at any early voting site in their county; would-be voters may same-day register and vote early as well.
Find Early Voting Dates and Locations
Contact Information
Find Local Contact Information
Third Floor
430 N. Salisbury St. 6400
Mail Service Center
Raleigh, NC 27603
Email: elections.sboe@ncsbe.gov
Phone (919) 814-0700
Fax (919) 715-0135
Contact page: https://www.ncsbe.gov/contact-ncsbe
North Dakota
State website: https://vip.sos.nd.gov/PortalList.aspx
Eligibility
Who can register to vote?
In North Dakota, voter registration is not required for state or federal elections.
To vote in the state, you must be:
- A U.S. citizen
- At least 18 years of age
- A resident of your precinct for 30 days before Election Day
- A North Dakota resident.
Note:
Cities can require voters to register for city elections.
Absentee Ballot (Vote by Mail)
In North Dakota, you do not need a reason to vote by mail but you must request an absentee ballot and sign an affidavit.
Deadline to Request an Absentee Ballot
There is no set deadline to request an absentee ballot.
Deadline to Submit an Absentee Ballot
In North Dakota, all absentee ballots must be received the day before Election Day. If returning your ballot by mail, it must be postmarked by this date.
How to Request an Absentee Ballot
Visit: https://vip.sos.nd.gov/PortalListDetails.aspx?ptlhPKID=53&ptlPKID=7#content-start
- Option 1: Submit your request online here: https://vip.sos.nd.gov/absentee/Default.aspx
- Option 2: Download the absentee ballot request form and mail, fax, email or hand deliver in your request to your local county elections office.
- Find the request form here: https://www.nd.gov/eforms/Doc/sfn51468.pdf
- Find contact information for your county elections official here: https://vip.sos.nd.gov/CountyAuditors.aspx
Voting Options
What to Bring
An acceptable form of photo identification (Ex: a North Dakota driver’s license, North Dakota ID card, Tribal-issued identification). The ID must have your name, current North Dakota address and date of birth.
If your identification is missing one of these piece of information, you can supplement it with:
- Current utility bill
- Current bank statement
- Check or a document issued by a federal, state, local, or tribal government (including those issued by BIA for a tribe located in North Dakota, any other tribal agency or entity, or any other document that sets forth the tribal member’s name, date of birth, and current North Dakota residential address)
- Paycheck
- College students living in a location away from their North Dakota home address may bring a printed document containing the student’s name, address, and date of birth issued by the institution of higher education. This document must contain the institution’s letterhead or seal, along with a student photo identification card issued by the institution and containing the student’s photograph and legal name.
Find Your Election Day Voting Location
https://vip.sos.nd.gov/WhereToVote.aspx?tab=AddressandVotingTimes
Information on Early Voting
Only some districts in North Dakota offer early in-person voting. In other districts, voters can vote early with their absentee ballots.
Find Early Voting Dates and Locations
https://vote.nd.gov/precincts.aspx?eid=313
Contact Information
Find Local Contact Information
Secretary of State State of North Dakota
600 E Boulevard Avenue Dept 108
Bismarck, ND 58505-0500
Telephone: (701) 328-2900
Toll Free: 1 (800)-352-0867
TTY: 1 (800) 366-6888
Fax: (701) 328-2992
Contact page: http://sos.nd.gov/office-secretary-state/contact-us
Ohio
State website: https://www.ohiosos.gov/elections/voters
Eligibility
Who can register to vote?
To register to vote, you must be:
- An Ohio resident for at least 30 days before the election
- A U.S. citizen
- At least 18 years of age by Election Day.
If you are 17 years of age and you will be 18 years of age by the General Election date, you may vote in the Primary. However, you can only nominate candidates. You cannot vote on issues or party central committees until you are 18 years of age.
You must register to vote at least 30 days before an election.
Felony Restrictions
If you were barred from voting due to a disqualifying felony conviction, you must first complete all of the terms of your sentence before you can have your voting rights restored.
Mental Capacity Restriction
If you have been declared mentally incompetent by a court, you will not be able to register to vote until your voting rights are restored.
How to Register
Easiest Way to Register
Other Ways to Register
You can also register to vote in person or by mail. Refer to the section “How to Register to Vote in Each State and Territory” for more information on your voting registration options.
Where to Check Voter Status
https://voterlookup.ohiosos.gov/voterlookup.aspx
Absentee Ballot (Vote by Mail)
Ohio voters do not need a reason to request an absentee ballot.
Deadline to Request an Absentee Ballot
Three days before Election Day
Deadline to Submit an Absentee Ballot
If mailed, your absentee ballot must be postmarked by the day before Election Day. If returning your ballot in person, you must return the ballot to your county Board of Elections by 7:30 p.m. on Election Day.
How to Request an Absentee Ballot
Visit: https://www.ohiosos.gov/elections/voters/absentee-voting/
- Option 1: Download the absentee ballot, complete it and mail it to your local county elections office.
- You can find the form here: https://www.ohiosos.gov/publications/#abr
- Find contact information for your county Board of Elections here: https://www.ohiosos.gov/elections/elections-officials/county-boards-of-elections-directory/
Voting Options
What to Bring
An acceptable form of photo identification which includes:
- An Ohio-issued or federal government-issued valid ID card with the voter’s name, address
- An unexpired Ohio Driver License, State ID Card, or Interim Documentation with your former address IS an ACCEPTABLE form of ID when your current address is in the pollbook.
- Military ID
- Utility bill with name and address
- Bank statement with name and address
- Government check with name and address
- Paycheck with name and address
- Other government document with name and address
Learn more about Ohio’s voter ID requirements here: https://www.ohiosos.gov/elections/voters/id-requirements/
Find Your Election Day Voting Location
https://www.ohiosos.gov/elections/voters/toolkit/polling-location/
Information on Early Voting
Early voting begins the day after the close of voter registration. There is one early voting location in each county.
Find Early Voting Dates and Locations
In Ohio, in-person absentee voting is considered early voting. It begins after voter registration closes. Learn more about early voting locations here: https://www.ohiosos.gov/elections/voters/absentee-voting/#inPerson
Contact Information
Find Local Contact Information
Phone: (614) 466-2585 (voice)
TTY: (614)728-3295
Oklahoma
State website: https://oklahoma.gov/elections/ovp.html
Eligibility
Who can register to vote?
To register to vote, you must be:
- An Oklahoma resident
- A U.S. citizen
- At least 18 years of age by Election Day.
You must register to vote at least 25 days before an election.
Who can pre-register?
You must be at least 17 years and 6 months of age to pre-register to vote in Oklahoma.
Felony Restrictions
If you were barred from voting due to a disqualifying felony conviction, you must first complete all of the terms of your sentence before you can have your voting rights restored.
Mental Capacity Restriction
If you have been declared mentally incompetent by a court, you will not be able to register to vote until your voting rights are restored.
How to Register
Easiest Way to Register
https://okvoterportal.okelections.us/Home/RegWizard
Other Ways to Register
You can also register to vote by mail or in person. Refer to the section “How to Register to Vote in Each State and Territory” for more information on your voting registration options.
Where to Check Voter Status
https://www.ok.gov/elections/OVP.html
Absentee Ballot (Vote by Mail)
Deadline to Request an Absentee Ballot
In Oklahoma, your request for an absentee ballot must be received by the third Monday (15 days) prior to Election Day.
Deadline to Submit an Absentee Ballot
Your absentee ballot must be received by 7 p.m. on Election Day to be counted in the election.
How to Request an Absentee Ballot
Visit: https://oklahoma.gov/elections/voters/absentee-voting.html
- Option 1: Submit your request online: https://www.ok.gov/elections/OVP.html
- Option 2: Download your absentee ballot application and mail, fax or hand deliver your request to your local County Election Board.
- Find the application form here: https://oklahoma.gov/content/dam/ok/en/elections/absentee-ballots/absentee-ballot-application.pdf
- Find your County Election Board contact information here: https://www.ok.gov/elections/About_Us/County_Election_Boards/index.html
Voting Options
What to Bring
An unexpired form of identification with your name and photograph (Ex: an Oklahoma driver’s license, U.S. passport, tribal-issued ID) issued by the state of Oklahoma, the United States government or a federally recognized tribal government. If you do not have identification with you at the polls, you may sign an affidavit instead.
Learn more about Oklahoma’s voter ID requirements here: https://oklahoma.gov/elections/voters/proof-of-identity.html
Find Your Election Day Voting Location
https://www.ok.gov/elections/OVP.html
Information on Early Voting
Oklahoma offers early voting a couple of days before Election Day. Voters use their absentee ballots to vote early.
Find Early Voting Dates and Locations
https://oklahoma.gov/elections/voters/early-voting.html
Contact Information
Find Local Contact Information
2300 N Lincoln Blvd, Room G28
State Capitol Building
Oklahoma City, OK 73105
Contact page: https://www.ok.gov/triton/contact.php?ac=220&id=196
Phone: (405) 521-2391
Fax: (405) 521-6457
Oregon
State website: https://sos.oregon.gov/voting-elections/Pages/default.aspx
Eligibility
Who can register to vote?
To register to vote, you must be:
- An Oregon resident
- A U.S. citizen
- At least 18 years of age by Election Day.
You must register to vote at least 21 days before an election.
Who can pre-register?
You must be at least 16 years of age to register to vote in Oregon. However, you will not be able to vote until you reach 18 years of age.
Felony Restrictions
If you were barred from voting due to a disqualifying felony conviction, you must first complete all of the terms of your sentence before you can have your voting rights restored. Learn more about Oregon’s felony voting restrictions here:
https://multco.us/elections/voting-rights-oregon-person-convicted-felony-frequently-asked-questions
Mental Capacity Restriction
If you have been declared mentally incompetent by a court, you will not be able to register to vote until your voting rights are restored.
How to Register
Easiest Way to Register
https://secure.sos.state.or.us/orestar/vr/register.do?lang=eng&source=SOS
Other Ways to Register
You can also register to vote by mail or in person. Refer to the section “How to Register to Vote in Each State and Territory” for more information on your voting registration options.
Where to Check Voter Status
https://secure.sos.state.or.us/orestar/vr/showVoterSearch.do?lang=eng&source=SOS
Absentee Ballot (Vote by Mail)
All registered voters in Oregon automatically receive a vote-by-mail ballot two to three weeks before an election. However, you need to request an absentee ballot if you are an out-of-state college student or travelling during the election. If you are in one of these situations, follow the instructions listed below.
Deadline to Request an Absentee Ballot
In Oregon, there is no clear deadline to request your ballot. However, it is recommended that you request it at least a month before Election Day.
Deadline to Submit an Absentee Ballot
Your absentee ballot must be received by 8 p.m. on Election Day to be counted.
How to Request an Absentee Ballot
Visit: https://sos.oregon.gov/voting/pages/voteinor.aspx
- Option 1: Download the absentee ballot request form and mail, fax or hand deliver the completed form to your local County Elections Office.
- Find the request form here: https://sos.oregon.gov/elections/Documents/SEL111.pdf
- Find your County Elections Office contact information here: https://sos.oregon.gov/elections/Pages/countyofficials.aspx
Voting Options
Find Your Election Day Voting Location
https://sos.oregon.gov/voting/Pages/drop-box-locator.aspx
Information on Early Voting
In Oregon, registered voters can drop their vote-by-mail ballot in drop boxes located all throughout the state. Find the drop box locations here: https://sos.oregon.gov/voting/Pages/drop-box-locator.aspx However, they do not offer in-person early voting at a voting machine.
Contact Information
Find Local Contact Information
2300 N Lincoln Blvd, Room G28
State Capitol Building
Oklahoma City, OK 73105
Contact page: https://sos.oregon.gov/Pages/contactus.aspx#electionsCU
Phone: (405) 521-2391
Fax: (405) 521-6457
Pennsylvania
State website: https://www.votespa.com/Pages/default.aspx
Eligibility
Who can register to vote?
To register to vote, you must be:
- A Pennsylvania resident for at least 30 days before Election Day
- A U.S. citizen for at least 30 days prior to Election Day
- At least 18 years of age by Election Day.
You must register to vote at least 15 days before an election..
Felony Restrictions
If you were barred from voting due to a disqualifying felony conviction, you must first complete all of the terms of your sentence before you can have your voting rights restored. Then, you will automatically have your voting rights restored.
Mental Capacity Restriction
If you have been declared mentally incompetent by a court, you will not be able to register to vote until your voting rights are restored.
How to Register
Easiest Way to Register
https://www.pavoterservices.pa.gov/pages/VoterRegistrationApplication.aspx
Other Ways to Register
You can also register to vote by mail or in person at your county voter registration office or at PennDOT and some other government agencies. Refer to the section “How to Register to Vote in Each State and Territory” for more information on your voting registration options.
Where to Check Voter Status
https://www.pavoterservices.pa.gov/pages/voterregistrationstatus.aspx
Absentee Ballot (Vote by Mail)
In Pennsylvania, you can request a mail-in ballot if you cannot or do not want to head to the polls in person.
You are eligible to request an absentee ballot if you are:
- A service member
- A college student
- An inmate without a felony conviction,
- On vacation
- Working outside of your municipality
- Have a debilitating health issue
- Have religious obligations
Deadline to Request an Absentee or Mail-in Ballot
Your request must be received by 5 p.m. on the Tuesday before Election Day.
Deadline to Submit an Absentee or Mail-in Ballot
Your absentee ballot must be received by 8 p.m. on Election Day.
How to Request an Absentee Ballot
Visit: https://www.votespa.com/Voting-in-PA/Pages/Mail-and-Absentee-Ballot.aspx
- Mail-In Ballot
- Option 1: Submit your mail-in ballot request online here: www.VotesPA.com/ApplyMailBallot
- Option 2: Download a paper application and mail in your request to your local county elections office: https://www.votespa.com/Register-to-Vote/Documents/PADOS_mailInapplication.pdf (English) https://www.votespa.com/Register-to-Vote/Documents/PADOS_MailInApplication_Spanish.pdf (Spanish)
- If you do not have a printer, you can fill out this online form to receive a mail-in ballot application by mail: https://expressforms.pa.gov/apps/pa/DOS-VotesPA/Paper-Application
- Apply in person at your local county election office. Find your county election office here: https://www.votespa.com/Resources/Pages/Contact-Your-Election-Officials.aspx
- Absentee Ballot
- Option 1: Submit your absentee ballot request online here: www.VotesPA.com/ApplyAbsentee
- Option 2: Download a paper application and mail in your request to your local county elections office: https://www.votespa.com/Voting-in-PA/Documents/Absentee_Ballot_Application.pdf (English) https://www.votespa.com/Voting-in-PA/Documents/Absentee%20Ballot%20Application-SPANISH.pdf (Spanish)
- If you do not have a printer, you can fill out this online form to receive a mail-in ballot application by mail: https://expressforms.pa.gov/apps/pa/DOS-VotesPA/Paper-Application
- Apply in person at your local county election office. Find the one nearest to you here: https://www.votespa.com/Resources/Pages/Contact-Your-Election-Officials.aspx
Note:
Members of the military and overseas voters have different options for requesting an absentee ballot. Learn more here: https://www.votespa.com/Voting-in-PA/Pages/Military-and-Overseas-Voters.aspx
Voting Options
What to Bring
Voters who are voting at a polling place for the first time will need to show an acceptable form of identification, including:
including:
- A Pennsylvania driver’s license
- PennDOT ID card
- ID issued by any Commonwealth agency
- ID issued by the U.S. government
- U.S. passport
- U.S. armed forces ID
- Employee ID
- Student ID card
If you do not have one of the forms of acceptable photo ID, you can bring one of the following showing your name and address:
- Confirmation issued by the County Voter Registration Office
- Non-photo ID issued by the Commonwealth
- Non-photo ID issued by the U.S. Government
- Firearm permit
- Current utility bill
- Current bank statement
- Current paycheck
- Government check
Learn more about Pennsylvania’s voter registration requirements here: https://www.votespa.com/Register-to-Vote/Pages/Voter-ID-for-First-Time-Voters.aspx
Find Your Election Day Voting Location
https://www.votespa.com/Voting-in-PA/Pages/Voting-at-a-Polling-Place.aspx
Find Early Voting Dates and Locations
In-person early voting is not an option in PA. However, residents can vote early through mail-in ballots.
Contact Information
Find Local Contact Information
Puerto Rico
State website: http://ww2.ceepur.org
Eligibility
Who can register to vote?
To register to vote, you must be:
- A U.S. citizen
- A Puerto Rico resident
- At least 18 years of age by Election Day.
You must register at least 50 days before Election Day.
Mental Capacity Restriction
If you have been declared “mentally incompetent” by a court, you will not be able to register to vote until your voting rights are restored.
How to Register
Easiest Way to Register
You must apply in person at your local permanent registration office (Juntas de Inscripción Permanente). Find your nearest location here: https://www.ceepur.org/directorio.htm [in Spanish]
Where to Check Voter Status
https://consulta.ceepur.org/ [in Spanish]
Absentee Ballot (Vote by Mail)
To vote by absentee ballot in Puerto Rico, you must be eligible to vote in Puerto Rico and be absent on Election Day. This includes inmates in penal institutions in the states and territories of the United States who lived in Puerto Rico when sentenced.
In addition, the following voters qualify to vote early:
- Voters confined in penal institutions or in juvenile institutions in Puerto Rico
- Any voter who in that electoral event is a Primary aspirant or Candidate for elective public office
- Voters with special conditions who are residents in a lodging house, even if it is not the address reported in their electoral register
- Voters with a physical disability, are blind or who during the fifty (50) days prior to Election Day, has been and will continue to use a wheelchair, crutches, essential equipment or artifacts to achieve their mobility; or who has obvious limitations to move their legs, even if they do not use a support device
- Voters who are the only person available in the family nucleus of their home for the care of minors under fourteen (14) years of age, people with disabilities and bedridden patients in their homes
- Voters confined as a patient in a hospital or long-term health care or treatment institution
- Voters who are public, private or self-employed workers who affirms that they must be at their employment center within Puerto Rico, as long as it is located outside their domicile
- Voters who, after the term to submit Absentee or Early Vote applications has expired, became aware that he/she will be physically out of Puerto Rico for any reason on the day of voting, and that such knowledge arose before the day of voting.
- Voters with disabilities or obvious mobility limitations or bedridden with some type of medical condition that prevents them from attending their polling place
- Voters eighty (80) years of age or older
Deadline to Request an Absentee Ballot
You have until sixty (60) days before Election Day to submit an absentee ballot application.
Deadline to Submit an Absentee Ballot
Your completed ballot must be received up to 30 days after the date it was submitted before an election.
How to Request an Absentee Ballot
- Option 1: Download, fill out the request form, then submit it by email to java@cee.pr.gov. Find the application here: https://www.fvap.gov/uploads/FVAP/Forms/fpca.pdf
Voting Options
What to Bring
An acceptable form of identification including:
- Electoral Identification Card (TIE)
- Current driver’s license
- U.S. passport
Find Your Election Day Voting Location
Contact your local permanent registration office to learn where you vote. Find your nearest location here: https://www.ceepur.org/directorio.htm [in Spanish]
Information on Early Voting
Voters who qualify for early voting must apply to do so at https://ww2.ceepur.org/Home/SolicituddeVoto.
Contact Information
Find Local Contact Information
Phone: (787) 7778682
Contact page: https://www.vivote.gov/contact-us
Mailing Address:
P.O. Box 195552
San Juan, PR 00919-5552
Rhode Island
State website: https://elections.ri.gov/voting
Eligibility
Who can register to vote?
To register to vote, you must be:
- A Rhode Island resident
- A U.S. citizen
- At least 18 years of age by Election Day.
The registration deadline is typically 30 days before an election.
Who can pre-register?
You must be at least 16 years of age to pre-register to vote in Rhode Island. However, you will not be able to vote until you reach 18 years of age.
Felony Restrictions
If you were barred from voting due to a disqualifying felony conviction, you must first complete all of the terms of your sentence before you can have your voting rights restored.
Mental Capacity Restriction
If you have been declared mentally incompetent by a court, you will not be able to register to vote until your voting rights are restored.
How to Register
Easiest Way to Register
https://vote.sos.ri.gov/VoterRegistration/VoterRegistration?step=0
Other Ways to Register
You can also register to vote by mail. Refer to the section “How to Register to Vote in Each State and Territory” for more information on your voting registration options.
Where to Check Voter Status
https://vote.sos.ri.gov/Home/UpdateVoterRecord?ActiveFlag=0
Absentee Ballot (Vote by Mail)
In Rhode Island, you do not need a specific reason to request a mail ballot.
Deadline to Submit an Absentee Ballot
Your absentee ballot must be received by 8 p.m. on Election Day.
How to Request an Absentee Ballot
Visit: https://elections.ri.gov/voting/mailballot.php
- Option 1: Download the absentee ballot application and mail in your request to your local board of canvassers. Find the application form here: https://vote.sos.ri.gov/Forms/elections/Forms/ElecMB.10.3.23.pdf
- Option 2: Contact your local board of canvassers to request an absentee ballot application. Mail in your request to your local board of canvassers. https://vote.sos.ri.gov/Elections/LocalBoards
Find your local board of canvassers contact information here: https://elections.ri.gov/canvassers/index.php
Voting Options
What to Bring
Voters will need to show an acceptable form of identification, including:
- Rhode Island driver’s license or permit
- Rhode Island voter ID card
- U.S. passport
- U.S. military ID
- ID card issued by the United States or the state of Rhode Island
- Government-issued medical card
- Tribal ID
- Student ID card
Learn more about Rhode Island’s voter registration requirements here: https://elections.ri.gov/voting/id.php
Find Your Election Day Voting Location
https://vote.sos.ri.gov/Home/PollingPlaces?ActiveFlag=2
Information on Early Voting
Early voting, which includes casting emergency mail ballots, begins 20 days prior to Election Day. Both early and emergency ballots must be cast in the locality where the voter lives. These ballots will be tabulated on Election Night after 8:00 PM when the polls close. If you have already requested and received a mail ballot, you cannot exchange it for an early in-person ballot to vote in person. You will either need to return the completed mail ballot or cast a provisional ballot in person on Election Day.
Find Early Voting Dates and Locations
https://vote.sos.ri.gov/Voter/PersonVotingPage
Contact Information
Find Local Contact Information
Rhode Island Board of Elections
2000 Plainfield Pike
Cranston, RI 02921
Phone: (401) 222-2345
Fax: (401) 222-3135
Contact page: https://elections.ri.gov/contact/contactlanding.php
South Carolina
State website: https://www.scvotes.gov
Eligibility
Who can register to vote?
To register to vote, you must be:
- A South Carolina resident
- A U.S. citizen
- At least 18 years of age by the next Election Day.
The registration deadline is 30 days before an election.
Felony Restrictions
If you were barred from voting due to a disqualifying felony conviction, you must first complete all of the terms of your sentence before you can have your voting rights restored.
Mental Capacity Restriction
If you have been declared mentally incompetent by a court, you will not be able to register to vote until your voting rights are restored.
How to Register
Easiest Way to Register
https://info.scvotes.sc.gov/eng/ovr/start.aspx
Other Ways to Register
You can also register to vote by mail, email, fax or in person. Refer to the section “How to Register to Vote in Each State and Territory” for more information on your voting registration options.
Where to Check Voter Status
https://info.scvotes.sc.gov/eng/voterinquiry/VoterInformationRequest.aspx
Absentee Ballot (Vote by Mail)
In South Carolina, you need to have one of the following reasons in order to vote via absentee ballot:
- You have employment obligations which prevent you from voting during early voting hours for the duration of the early voting period, and during the hours the polls are open on election day.
- You are attending a sick or physically disabled person which prevents you from voting during early voting hours for the duration of the early voting period, and during the hours the polls are open on election day.
- You are confined to a jail or pretrial facility pending disposition of arrest or trial which prevents you from voting during early voting hours for the duration of the early voting period, and during the hours the polls are open on election day.
- You will be absent from your county of residence during early voting hours for the duration of the early voting period, and during the hours the polls are open on election day.
- You have physical disabilities.
- You are sixty-five years of age or older.
- You are a member of the Armed Forces and Merchant Marines of the United States, or their spouse, or dependent residing with them
- You have been admitted to a hospital as an emergency patient on the day of the election or within a four-day period before the election
Deadline to Request an Absentee Ballot
In South Carolina, your application must be received no later than four days before Election Day by 5 p.m.
Deadline to Submit an Absentee Ballot
If voting by mail, your absentee ballot must be received by 7 p.m. on Election Day. If voting absentee in person, your ballot must be received by 5 p.m. on the day before Election Day.
How to Request an Absentee Ballot
Visit: https://www.scvotes.gov/absentee-voting
- Option 1: Absentee In Person Voting: Visit your county voter registration office at least the day before the election. Complete an application there and cast your ballot.
- Find your county voter registration office contact information here: https://scvotes.gov/contact/county-voter-registration-election-offices/
- Option 2: Absentee by Mail Voting: Complete the Request Absentee Application form here: https://info.scvotes.sc.gov/eng/voterinquiry/VoterInformationRequest.aspx?PageMode=AbsenteeRequest
- Print and complete the form. Send it to your county voter registration office by email, mail, fax or personal delivery.
- Find your county voter registration office contact information here: https://scvotes.gov/contact/county-voter-registration-election-offices/
- If you are unable to print the application, you may instead call or email your county voter registration office to receive an application in the mail. After completing it, return it to your county office in person, by mail, by email or by fax.
Voting Options
What to Bring
An acceptable form of photo identification such as:
- South Carolina driver’s license
- South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles ID card
- South Carolina voter registration card with photo
- U.S. passport
- Federal military ID)
Learn more about South Carolina’s voter ID requirements here: https://scvotes.gov/voters/photo-id-requirements/
Find Your Election Day Voting Location
https://info.scvotes.sc.gov/eng/voterinquiry/VoterInformationRequest.aspx?PageMode=VoterInfo
Information on Early Voting
For statewide elections, early voting begins 15 days prior to Election Day and continues through the Saturday before Election Day. Hours are from 8:30 AM to 6:00 PM. There is no early voting on Sundays or state holidays.
For other elections and primaries, early voting starts 15 days prior to Election Day, but ends the Friday before Election Day. The hours are the same, but there is no early voting on weekends or state holidays.
Runoffs have early voting starting the Wednesday before Election Day through the Friday before Election Day. The hours are the same, and there is no early voting on state holidays.
Early Voting Locations
For statewide elections, find your early voting locations here: https://scvotes.gov/voters/early-voting/. For local elections, contact your local election office.
Contact Information
Find Local Contact Information
State Election Commission
1122 Lady Street, Suite 500
Columbia, SC 29201
Email: elections@elections.sc.gov
Additional Contact Information
The South Carolina Election commission recommends contacting your county voter registration and elections office for any questions about elections: https://scvotes.gov/contact/county-voter-registration-election-offices/
South Dakota
State website: https://sdsos.gov/elections-voting/voting
Eligibility
Who can register to vote?
To register to vote, you must be:
- A South Dakota resident
- A U.S. citizen
- At least 18 years of age by Election Day.
The registration deadline is 15 days before an election.
Felony Restrictions
If you were barred from voting due to a disqualifying felony conviction, you must first complete all of the terms of your sentence before you can have your voting rights restored.
Mental Capacity Restriction
If you have been declared mentally incompetent by a court, you will not be able to register to vote until your voting rights are restored.
How to Register
Easiest Way to Register
https://sdsos.gov/elections-voting/assets/VoterRegistrationFormFillable.pdf and then mail it to your county auditor.
Other Ways to Register
You can also register to vote in person. Refer to the section “How to Register to Vote in Each State and Territory” for more information on your voting options.
Where to Check Voter Status
https://vip.sdsos.gov/VIPLogin.aspx
Absentee Ballot (Vote by Mail)
You do not need an excuse to vote by absentee ballot in South Dakota. You have the option of voting absentee for all elections or only certain types of elections (general, primary, municipal, school).
Deadline to Request an Absentee Ballot
In South Dakota, you have until 5 p.m. the day before Election Day to request your ballot.
Deadline to Submit an Absentee Ballot
Your absentee ballot must be received by the close of the polls on Election Day.
How to Request an Absentee Ballot
Visit: https://sdsos.gov/elections-voting/voting/absentee-voting.aspx
- Option 1: Download your absentee ballot request form and mail in your request to your local county elections office:
- Find the request form here: https://sdsos.gov/elections-voting/assets/AbsenteeApplication_202012.PDF
- Find your county elections office here: https://vip.sdsos.gov/CountyAuditors.aspx
Voting Options
What to Bring
An acceptable form of photo identification such as:
- South Dakota driver’s license
- South Dakota non-driver ID card
- U.S. government photo ID
- U.S. passport
- U.S. military ID
- South Dakota valid student ID from high school or accredited institution of higher education
- Tribal photo ID
If you do not have an acceptable form of identification, you may sign a personal identification affidavit instead.
Find Your Election Day Voting Location
https://vip.sdsos.gov/VIPLogin.aspx
Information on Early Voting
South Dakota does not have early in-person voting, but you may cast your absentee ballot early by mailing it or dropping it off at your county election official’s office.
Find Early Voting Dates and Locations
Contact your county elections office for details: https://vip.sdsos.gov/CountyAuditors.aspx
Contact Information
Find Local Contact Information
Secretary of State
Capitol Building
500 East Capitol Avenue Ste 204
Pierre, SD 57501-5070
Email: elections@state.sd.us
Phone: (605) 773-3537
Fax: (605) 773-6580
Contact page: https://sdsos.gov/contact-us/default.aspx
Tennessee
State website: https://sos.tn.gov/elections
Eligibility
Who can register to vote?
To register to vote, you must be:
- A Tennessee resident
- A U.S. citizen
- At least 18 years of age by Election Day.
The registration deadline is 30 days before an election.
Felony Restrictions
If you were barred from voting due to a disqualifying felony conviction, you must first complete all of the terms of your sentence before you can have your voting rights restored.
Mental Capacity Restriction
If you have been declared mentally incompetent by a court, you will not be able to register to vote until your voting rights are restored.
How to Register
Easiest Way to Register
Other Ways to Register
You can also register to vote by mail or in person. Refer to the section “How to Register to Vote in Each State & Territory” for more information on your voting registration options.
Where to Check Voter Status
https://tnmap.tn.gov/voterlookup/
Absentee Ballot (Vote by Mail)
In order vote by absentee ballot, you must have one of the following reasons:
- You are age 60 years or older
- You will be outside your county during all hours of early voting and on Election Day
- You are hospitalized, ill or physically disabled and unable to appear at the polling place in person (includes those who have underlying medical or health conditions that makes them more vulnerable to COVID)
- You are a caretaker of a hospitalized, ill or physically disabled person
- You are a full-time student or spouse of a full-time student outside the county
- You live in a licensed facility outside your county such as a nursing home
- You are a candidate for office in the election
- You are observing a religious holiday that prevents you from voting during early voting or on Election Day
- You will be serving as an election official or member or employee of the election commission on Election Day
- You will be serving on jury duty
- You are disabled and your polling place is inaccessible
- You have a CDL or TWIC or are the spouse of such a person and will be out of the county during early voting and on Election Day.
- You serve in the military, National Guard or are a military spouse
- You are an overseas citizen and otherwise qualified to vote in Tennessee
Deadline to Request an Absentee Ballot
In Tennessee, you have to submit your absentee ballot application at least 7 days before Election Day.
Deadline to Submit an Absentee Ballot
Your absentee ballot must be received by the close of the polls on Election Day.
How to Request an Absentee Ballot
Visit: https://sos.tn.gov/products/elections/absentee-voting
- Option 1: Download the absentee ballot request form and mail, email or fax your request to your local county election commission office.
- Find the request form here: https://sos-prod.tnsosgovfiles.com/s3fs-public/document/Absentee%20Ballot%20Request%20Form%282%29.pdf?VersionId=hMi7n6gN9iYIkwmQq46T8y1IM_EbE0oH
- Find contact information for your local county election commission office here: https://tnsos.org/elections/election_commissions.php
Voting Options
What to Bring
An acceptable form of federal or state-issued photo identification such as:
- Tennessee driver’s license
- Photo ID issued by the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security
- U.S. passport or military ID card,
- Any photo ID issued by the United States federal government or the state of Tennessee, even if expired
- College student IDs are NOT acceptable
Learn more about Tennessee’s voter ID requirements here: https://sos.tn.gov/products/elections/what-id-required-when-voting
Find Your Election Day Voting Location
https://tnmap.tn.gov/voterlookup/
Information on Early Voting
Early voting typically begins 20 days before the election and ends 5 days before Election Day. The exception is for the presidential primary, in which early voting ends 7 days before Election Day. Early voting is available on Saturdays during this period, but not on Sundays or holidays. In city elections where a candidate is running unopposed, there is no early voting.
Find Early Voting Dates and Locations
https://sos.tn.gov/products/elections/early-voting-person
Contact Information
Find Local Contact Information
312 Rosa L. Parks Avenue 7th Floor
Snodgrass Tower
Nashville, TN 37243-1102
Email: Tennessee.Elections@tn.gov
Phone: 1 (877) 850-4959 / (615)-741-7956
Contact page: https://sos.tn.gov/contacts
Texas
State website: https://www.votetexas.gov
Eligibility
Who can register to vote?
To register to vote, you must be:
- A Texas resident
- A U.S. citizen
- At least 18 years of age by Election Day.
The registration deadline is 30 days before an election.
Who can pre-register?
You must be at least 17 years and 10 months of age to pre-register to vote. However, you will not be allowed to vote until you reach 18 years of age.
Felony Restrictions
If you were barred from voting due to a disqualifying felony conviction, you must first complete all of the terms of your sentence before you can have your voting rights restored.
Mental Capacity Restriction
If you have been declared mentally incompetent by a court, you will not be able to register to vote until your voting rights are restored.
How to Register
Easiest Way to Register
https://webservices.sos.state.tx.us/vrapp/index.asp
Other Ways to Register
You can also register to vote in person. Refer to the section “How to Register to Vote in Each State & Territory” for more information on your voting registration options.
Where to Check Voter Status
https://teamrv-mvp.sos.texas.gov/MVP/mvp.do
Absentee Ballot (Vote by Mail)
Voting by mail in Texas is limited to voters who are:
- Age 65 years or older
- Sick or disabled
- Expected to give birth within 3 weeks of Election Day
- Out of the county on Election Day and during early voting
- In jail, but otherwise eligible to vote
Deadline to Request an Absentee Ballot
In Texas, you must submit your request no later than 11 days before Election Day.
Deadline to Submit an Absentee Ballot
Your absentee ballot must be received by 7 p.m. on Election Day for regular voters. If you are a member of the armed forces, it must be received no later than 6 days after Election Day. For voters who are currently overseas, the deadline is 5 days after Election Day.
How to Request an Absentee Ballot
Visit: https://www.sos.texas.gov/elections/voter/reqabbm.shtml
- Option 1: Download your absentee ballot application form and mail in your request to your local county Early Voting Clerk. Find the application form here: https://webservices.sos.state.tx.us/forms/5-15f.pdf
- Find contact information for your Early Voting Clerk here: https://www.sos.texas.gov/elections/voter/county.shtml
- Option 2: Submit an order online to receive an absentee ballot application by mail: https://bbm.sos.state.tx.us/bbm.asp
Voting Options
What to Bring
An acceptable form of photo identification such as:
- Texas Driver License issued by the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS)
- Texas Election Identification Certificate issued by DPS
- Texas Personal Identification Card issued by DPS
- Texas Handgun License issued by DPS
- United States Military Identification Card containing the person’s photograph
- United States Citizenship Certificate containing the person’s photograph
- United States Passport (book or card)
If you do not have one of these forms of photo ID, you may fill out a Reasonable Impediment Declaration at the polls and present one of the following alternative forms of ID:
- Copy or original of a government document that shows the voter’s name and an address, including the voter’s voter registration certificate;
- Copy of or original current utility bill
- Copy of or original bank statement
- Copy of or original government check
- Copy of or original paycheck
- Copy of or original of:
- A certified domestic (from a U.S. state or territory) birth certificate or
- A document confirming birth admissible in a court of law which establishes the voter’s identity (which may include a foreign birth document).
Learn more about Texas’s voter ID requirements here: https://www.votetexas.gov/mobile/id-faqs.htm
Find Your Election Day Voting Location
https://teamrv-mvp.sos.texas.gov/MVP/mvp.do
Information on Early Voting
Generally, early voting starts on the 17th day before Election Day unless that falls on a weekend, in which case it would start the following Monday. It ends on the 4th day prior to Election Day. Voters can vote at any early voting location within their voting district.
Early voting for some special elections and for elections held in May start the 12th day before Election Day and end on the 4th day before Election Day.
Find Early Voting Dates and Locations
https://teamrv-mvp.sos.texas.gov/MVP/mvp.do
Contact Information
Find Local Contact Information
Elections Division
Secretary of State
P.O. Box 12060
Austin, Texas 78711-2060
E-mail: elections@sos.texas.gov
Toll-free: 1 (800) 252-VOTE(8683)
Local: (512) 463-5650
Fax: (512) 475-2811
Contact page: https://www.votetexas.gov/contact.html
U.S. Virgin Islands
State website: https://www.vivote.gov/voters/register-vote
Eligibility
Who can register to vote?
To register to vote, you must be:
- A U.S. citizen
- A Virgin Islands resident
- At least 18 years of age by Election Day.
You must register at least 30 days before Election Day.
Felony Restrictions
If you were barred from voting due to a disqualifying felony conviction, you must first complete all of the terms of your sentence before you can have your voting rights restored.
Mental Capacity Restriction
If you have been declared “mentally incompetent” by a court, you will not be able to register to vote until your voting rights are restored.
How to Register
Easiest Way to Register
You must apply in person at your local elections office. Find your nearest location here: https://www.vivote.gov/contact-us
Where to Check Voter Status
https://www.vivote.gov/voters/lookup
Absentee Ballot (Vote by Mail)
Deadline to Request an Absentee Ballot
You have until seven days before Election Day to submit an absentee ballot application.
Deadline to Submit an Absentee Ballot
Your completed ballot must be received 10 days after Election Day.
How to Request an Absentee Ballot
- Visit: https://www.vivote.gov/voters/absentee-ballot
- Option 1: Download, fill out the request form, then submit it to the Election System of the Virgin Islands. Find the application here: https://www.vivote.gov/sites/default/files/2020%20General%20Election%20Absentee%20Application.pdf
How to Vote
What to Bring
An acceptable form of photo identification (Ex: state-issued ID, U.S. passport)
Find Your Election Day Voting Location
https://www.vivote.gov/elections/polling-places
Early Voting Dates and Locations
https://www.vivote.gov/elections/early-voting
Contact Information
Find Local Contact Information
Physical Address:
Sunny Isle Annex, Unit 4
Christiansted, VI
Phone: (340) 773-1021
(340) 774-3107
Mailing Address:
P.O. Box 1499
Kingshill, VI 00851
Contact page: https://www.vivote.gov/contact-us
U.S. Virgin Islands
State website: https://www.vivote.gov/voters/register-vote
Eligibility
Who can register to vote?
To register to vote, you must be:
- A U.S. citizen
- A Virgin Islands resident
- At least 18 years of age by Election Day.
You must register at least 30 days before Election Day.
Felony Restrictions
If you were barred from voting due to a disqualifying felony conviction, you must first complete all of the terms of your sentence before you can have your voting rights restored.
Mental Capacity Restriction
If you have been declared “mentally incompetent” by a court, you will not be able to register to vote until your voting rights are restored.
How to Register
Easiest Way to Register
You must apply in person at your local elections office. Find your nearest location here: https://www.vivote.gov/contact-us
Where to Check Voter Status
https://www.vivote.gov/voters/lookup
Absentee Ballot (Vote by Mail)
To vote by absentee ballot in the U.S. Virgin Islands, you must have one of the following reasons:
- You are a member of the Uniformed Services of the United States or spouse of a member of the Uniformed Services of the United States
- You are a person or his/her spouse who is engaged in educational pursuits and who is residing either outside the Territory of the Virgin Islands or in an election district other than that in which he is registered
- You are an officer or employee of the Government of the United States Virgin Islands or the Government of the United States assigned to official duties outside of the election district in which you is registered
- You have not been out of the election district in which you are registered for more than 90 days prior to the date of the election for which absentee status is sought
- You are unable to appear personally at the polling place of the election district in which you are a qualified voter because of illness or physical disability, whether permanent or temporary, or because you will be or are a patient in a hospital, nursing home, or home for the aged
- You are an inmate or patient in a Veterans’ Administration hospital
- You will be absent from the district of your residence because you are accompanying a spouse, parent or child who would be entitled to apply for the right to vote by absentee ballot
- You will be absent from your voting residence because you have been detained in jail awaiting action by a grand jury or trial, or have been confined in prison after a conviction for an offense other than a felony
- You will be unable to vote in person based on religious grounds
Deadline to Request an Absentee Ballot
You have until seven days before Election Day to submit an absentee ballot application.
Deadline to Submit an Absentee Ballot
Your completed ballot must be received 10 days after Election Day.
How to Request an Absentee Ballot
- Visit: https://www.vivote.gov/voters/absentee-ballot
- Option 1: Download, fill out the request form, then submit it to the Election System of the Virgin Islands. Find the application here: https://www.vivote.gov/sites/default/files/2020%20General%20Election%20Absentee%20Application.pdf
Voting Options
What to Bring
Only first-time voters need to bring ID to the polls in the U.S. Virgin Islands. However, there is no information of what constitutes an acceptable form of photo identification.
Find Your Election Day Voting Location
https://www.vivote.gov/elections/polling-places
Information on Early Voting
The U.S. Virgin Islands does offer early voting starting 29 days before Election Day and ending 8 days before Election Day. Voters may vote early from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM on St. Croix and 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM daily during this period on St. John.
Early Voting Dates and Locations
https://www.vivote.gov/elections/early-voting
Contact Information
Find Local Contact Information
Physical Address:
Sunny Isle Annex, Unit 4
Christiansted, VI
Phone: (340) 773-1021
(340) 774-3107
Mailing Address:
P.O. Box 1499
Kingshill, VI 00851
Contact page: https://www.vivote.gov/contact-us
Utah
State website: https://vote.utah.gov
Eligibility
Who can register to vote?
To register to vote, you must be:
- A Utah resident for at least 30 days leading up to Election Day
- A U.S. citizen
- At least 18 years of age by Election Day.
The registration deadline is at 5 p.m. 11 days before an election.
Who can pre-register?
You must be at least 16 years of age to pre-register in Utah. However, you will not be able to vote until you reach 18 years of age.
Felony Restrictions
If you were barred from voting due to a disqualifying felony conviction, you must first complete all of the terms of your sentence before you can have your voting rights restored.
Mental Capacity Restriction
If you have been declared mentally incompetent by a court, you will not be able to register to vote until your voting rights are restored.
How to Register
Easiest Way to Register
https://secure.utah.gov/voterreg/login.html?selection=REGISTER
Other Ways to Register
You can also register to vote by mail, by email or in person. Refer to the section “How to Register to Vote in Each State & Territory” for more information on your voting options.
Where to Check Voter Status
https://votesearch.utah.gov/voter-search/search/search-by-voter/voter-info
Absentee Ballot (Vote by Mail)
All registered Utah voters will receive a ballot in the mail automatically. No excuse is necessary to vote by mail.
Deadline to Submit an Absentee Ballot
If submitting by mail, your absentee ballot must be postmarked no later than the day before Election Day. Mail the ballot to your county clerk’s office: https://voteinfo.utah.gov/county-clerk-contact-information/
If submitting in person, you may place your ballot in a drop box location by 8 p.m. on Election Day. Find drop box locations here: https://votesearch.utah.gov/voter-search/search/search-by-address/how-and-where-can-i-vote
Voting Options
What to Bring
Only those who are registering the same day need to show ID at the polls. Voters registering at the polls must provide one of the following with photo and name (must be unexpired):
- Utah driver’s license
- ID card issued by the state of Utah or the U.S. government
- U.S. passport
- Utah concealed carry permit
- Tribal ID card (does not require photo)
- Valid U.S. military ID
If you do not have one of these, you may present two of the following showing your name and address:
- Utility bill dated within 90 days of the election
- Bank or other financial account statement
- Certified birth certificate
- Valid Social Security card
- Check issued by the state or federal government
- Currently valid Utah hunting or fishing license
- Certified naturalization documents (NOT a green card)
- Certified copy of court records showing the voter’s adoption or name change
- Bureau of Indian Affairs card
- Tribal treaty card
- Medicaid or Medicare or Electronic Benefits Transfer card
- Currently valid ID card issued by a local government within Utah
- Currently valid ID card issued by an employer
- Currently valid ID card issued by a college, university, technical school, or professional school in Utah
- Current Utah vehicle registration
Learn more about Utah’s voter ID requirements here: https://voteinfo.utah.gov/voter-id-requirements/
Find Your Election Day Voting Location
https://votesearch.utah.gov/voter-search/search/search-by-address/how-and-where-can-i-vote
Information on Early Voting
All Utah voters can vote early by mail, and some counties have early in-person voting.
Find Early Voting Dates and Locations
Contact your county clerk’s office: https://voteinfo.utah.gov/county-clerk-contact-information/
Contact Information
Find Local Contact Information
County clerk’s offices contact information: https://voteinfo.utah.gov/county-clerk-contact-information
Vermont
State website: https://sos.vermont.gov/elections/voters
Eligibility
Who can register to vote?
To register to vote, you must:
- Be a Vermont resident
- Be a U.S. citizen
- Be at least 18 years of age by the next Election Day.
- Take the Voter’s Oath. Learn more about Vermont’s Voter’s Oath requirement here: https://sos.vermont.gov/elections/voters/voter-faqs/voter-registration-faqs/#q13
You may register to vote through Election Day.
Felony Restrictions
Vermont permits all individuals with felony convictions, including those who are currently incarcerated or serving a sentence, to vote, as long as they meet the requirements listed above. All citizens who are convicted of a felony retain their right to vote.
Mental Capacity Restriction
If you have been declared mentally incompetent by a court, you will not be able to register to vote until your voting rights are restored.
How to Register
Easiest Way to Register
Other Ways to Register
You can also register to vote by mail or in person. Refer to the section “How to Register to Vote in Each State & Territory” for more information on your voting registration options.
Where to Check Voter Status
Absentee Ballot (Vote by Mail)
Any Vermont voter can vote early or by mail without an excuse.
Deadline to Request an Absentee Ballot
In Vermont, your request must be received by 5 p.m. or the close of the town clerk’s office the day before Election Day.
Deadline to Submit an Absentee Ballot
If submitting your ballot to a town clerk’s office, your ballot must be received before the office closes on the day before Election Day. If submitting your ballot to a polling place, it must be received by 7 p.m. on Election Day.
How to Request an Absentee Ballot
Visit: https://sos.vermont.gov/elections/voters/early-absentee-voting/
- Option 1: Submit your request online here: https://mvp.vermont.gov/
- Option 2: Download the absentee ballot request form and mail or deliver your request to your local town clerk’s office. Find the request form here: https://outside.vermont.gov/dept/sos/Elections%20Division/voters/vtabsenteerequestgeneric.pdf
- Option 3: Visit your local clerk’s office to submit your request in person.
- Find contact information for your town clerk here: https://sos.vermont.gov/elections/town-clerks/
Voting Options
What to Bring
If you are a first-time voter who registered by mail, you will have to present an acceptable form of identification identification at the polls such as:
- A valid driver’s license
- Valid U.S. passport
- Current utility bill
- Current bank statement
- Another government document
Find Your Election Day Voting Location
Information on Early Voting
Early voting starts at least 45 days before a primary or general election and 20 days prior to a municipal election that uses the Australian ballot. Early ballots are returned to the town clerk’s office. Then, on Election Day, they are collected and then delivered to the presiding officer at the polling place where the voter would have voted in person.
Find Early Voting Dates and Locations
https://sos.vermont.gov/elections-calendar/
Contact your town clerk’s office to learn more about early voting locations: https://sos.vermont.gov/elections/town-clerks/
Contact Information
Find Local Contact Information
Elections Division
William Senning, Director
128 State Street
Montpelier, VT 05633-1101
Email: will.senning@vermont.gov
Phone: (802) 828-2363
Virginia
State website: https://www.elections.virginia.gov
Eligibility
Who can register to vote?
To register to vote, you must be:
- A Virginia resident
- A U.S. citizen
- At least 18 years of age by Election Day.
You must register to vote at least 22 days before general and primary elections, at least 14 days before special elections, and at least 7 days before special elections called by the governor.
Who can pre-register?
You must be at least 17 years of age to pre-register to vote in Virginia. However, you will not be allowed to vote until you reach 18 years of age.
Felony Restrictions
If you were barred from voting due to a disqualifying felony conviction, you must first complete all of the terms of your sentence before you can have your voting rights restored.
Mental Capacity Restriction
If you have been declared mentally incompetent by a court, you will not be able to register to vote until your voting rights are restored.
How to Register
Easiest Way to Register
https://www.elections.virginia.gov/citizen-portal/
Other Ways to Register
You can also register to vote by mail or in person. Refer to the section “How to Register to Vote in Each State & Territory” for more information on your voting registration options.
Where to Check Voter Status
https://vote.elections.virginia.gov/VoterInformation/Lookup/status
Absentee Ballot (Vote by Mail)
Virginia voters do not need an excuse to vote by absentee ballot.
Deadline to Request an Absentee Ballot
In Virginia, your request must be received by 5 p.m. on the 11th day before Election Day.
Deadline to Submit an Absentee Ballot
Your absentee ballot must be postmarked by Election Day.
How to Request an Absentee Ballot
Visit: https://www.elections.virginia.gov/casting-a-ballot/absentee-voting/
- Option 1: Submit your request online here: https://www.elections.virginia.gov/citizen-portal/
- Option 2: Download the application and mail, fax or email the completed form to your local general registrar’s office.
- Find the application form here: https://www.elections.virginia.gov/media/castyourballot/SBE-701-703.1.pdf
- Find your local office here: https://vote.elections.virginia.gov/VoterInformation/PublicContactLookup
Voting Options
What to Bring
An acceptable form of identification, such as:
- Virginia driver’s license
- Virginia DMV-issued ID card
- U.S. passport or passport card
- Valid employee ID card, containing a photograph, issued by voter’s employer in ordinary course of business (public or private employer)
- U.S. military ID
- Valid student ID issued by a school of higher education in Virginia or elsewhere in the U.S.
- Government-issued ID card from a federal, Virginia or local political subdivision
- Voter ID card issued by the Department of Elections
- Voter confirmation documents
- Valid tribal enrollment or other tribal ID
- Nursing home resident ID
- Current utility bill, bank statement, government check or paycheck with the name and address of the voter
- Any other current government document with the name and address of the voter
Learn more about Virginia’s voter ID requirements here: https://www.elections.virginia.gov/media/formswarehouse/voter-id/outreach-materials/documents/Voter-Identification-Chart—Revised-08.23.2023.pdf
Find Your Election Day Voting Location
https://www.elections.virginia.gov/citizen-portal/
Information on Early Voting
Early voting takes place starting 45 days before Election Day through the last Saturday before Election Day. You may mail your ballot or return it to the general registrar’s office. You can also drop it at any drop-off location in your county or city. Find a list of drop-off locations on your county or city’s official website.
If you requested an absentee ballot but would rather vote in person, you may do that as long as you have not returned your completed absentee ballot. Bring your unopened ballot with you to the polling place. If you requested but have lost or did not receive your absentee ballot, you can vote early in person at your registrar’s office or vote with a provisional ballot on Election Day.
Find Early Voting Dates and Locations
You may vote early in person at your registrar’s office or a satellite voting location in your town or city. You are able to early vote from 45 days before Election Day through the last Saturday before Election Day.
https://www.elections.virginia.gov/citizen-portal/
Contact Information
Find Local Contact Information
Washington Building
First Floor
1100 Bank Street
Richmond, VA 23219
Email: info@elections.virginia.gov
Telephone: (804) 864-8901
Toll Free: (800) 552-9745
FAX: (804) 371-0194
TTY: 711
Contact page: https://www.elections.virginia.gov/contact-us>/a>
Washington
State website: https://www.sos.wa.gov/elections/voters
Eligibility
Who can register to vote?
To register to vote, you must be:
- A Washington resident for at least 30 days before Election Day
- A U.S. citizen
- At least 18 years of age by Election Day.
You must register at least 8 days before Election Day if voting by mail. If voting in person, you may register through Election Day.
Felony Restrictions
If you were barred from voting due to a disqualifying felony conviction, you must first complete all of the terms of your sentence before you can have your voting rights restored.
Mental Capacity Restriction
If you have been declared mentally incompetent by a court, you will not be able to register to vote until your voting rights are restored.
How to Register
Easiest Way to Register
Other Ways to Register
You can also register to vote by mail or in person. Refer to the section “How to Register to Vote in Each State & Territory” for more information on your voting registration options.
Where to Check Voter Status
https://voter.votewa.gov/WhereToVote.aspx
Absentee Ballot (Vote by Mail)
Deadline to Request an Absentee Ballot
For all Washington elections, you will automatically receive a mail-in ballot if you are registered to vote. You are not required to submit a request. However, if you are currently overseas, you can request a special absentee ballot application.
Deadline to Submit an Absentee Ballot
Your absentee ballot must be postmarked by Election Day or returned to a drop box by 8 p.m. on Election Day to be counted.
Find a list of voting drop boxes here: https://www.sos.wa.gov/_assets/elections/drop%20boxes%20and%20voting%20centers%20pdf.pdf
Voting Options
What to Bring
Only voters who registered by mail and did not provide a state driver’s license, state ID card or Social Security number need to show ID at the polls. Acceptable forms of photo identification include:
- Washington driver’s license
- Washington ID card
- U.S. passport
- Valid photo ID
- Valid tribal ID of a federally recognized Indian tribe in Washington state
- Copy of a current utility bill
- Current bank statement
- Copy of a current government check
- Copy of a current paycheck
- A government document that shows both your name and address
Find Your Election Day Voting Location
https://voter.votewa.gov/WhereToVote.aspx
Information on Early Voting
Every county in Washington has early in-person voting in addition to the ability to mail in your vote-by-mail ballot. Early in-person voting for primaries, special elections and general elections begins 18 days before Election Day and goes through 8:00 PM on Election Day.
Vote-by-mail ballots are counted after the polls close at 8:00 PM on Election Day.
Find Early Voting Dates and Locations
https://voter.votewa.gov/WhereToVote.aspx
Contact Information
Find Local Contact Information
State Elections
Office 520 Union Ave
Olympia, WA 98501
Email: elections@sos.wa.gov
Phone: (360) 902-4180 / 1 (800) 448-4881
Fax: (360) 664-4619
Elections Office contact page: https://www.sos.wa.gov/elections/viewauditors.aspx
West Virginia
State website: https://ovr.sos.wv.gov/Register/Landing
Eligibility
Who can register to vote?
To register to vote, you must be:
- A West Virginia resident
- A U.S. citizen
- At least 18 years of age by Election Day.
The registration deadline is 21 days before an election (or on the first day after that is not a Saturday, Sunday or legal holiday).
Who can pre-register?
You must be at least 17 years of age to pre-register in West Virginia. However, you will not be able to cast a ballot until you turn 18 years of age.
Felony Restrictions
If you were barred from voting due to a disqualifying felony conviction, you must first complete all of the terms of your sentence before you can have your voting rights restored.
Mental Capacity Restriction
If you have been declared mentally incompetent by a court, you will not be able to register to vote until your voting rights are restored.
How to Register
Easiest Way to Register
https://ovr.sos.wv.gov/Register/Landing
Other Ways to Register
You can also register to vote by mail or in person. Refer to the section “How to Register to Vote in Each State & Territory” for more information on your voting registration options.
Where to Check Voter Status
https://services.sos.wv.gov/Elections/Voter/AmIRegisteredToVote
Absentee Ballot (Vote by Mail)
West Virginians need to have one of the following reasons to be able to vote by absentee ballot:
- Illness, injury or other medical reason
- Immobility due to a disability or “extreme advanced age” (this term is undefined in law;
- immobilized voters must self-identify)
- Incarceration or home detention (does not include individuals serving a sentence following conviction of a felony, treason, or election bribery)
- Work hours and distance from county seat
- Inaccessible early voting site and polling place
- Personal or business travel*
- Attendance at college or other place of education or training*
- Temporary residence outside of the county*
- Service as an elected or appointed state or federal official*
An asterisk (*) indicates that the voter must receive the ballot at an address outside the county of residence
Deadline to Request an Absentee Ballot
In West Virginia, your request must be received no later than six days before Election Day.
Deadline to Submit an Absentee Ballot
- By mail: By the close of polls on Election Day
- By mail without postmark: The day after Election Day
- By mail postmarked by the US Postal Service by Election Day: Five days after the election, excluding Sundays
- In person: The day before the election
How to Request an Absentee Ballot
Visit: https://sos.wv.gov/elections/Pages/AbsenteeVotingInformation.aspx
- Option 1: Submit your request online here: https://sites.omniballot.us/54/absentee/app/home
- Option 2: Download your absentee ballot here and mail, fax or email your request to your local county elections office. Find the request form here: https://sos.wv.gov/FormSearch/Elections/Voter/Absentee%20Ballot%20Application.pdf
Voting Options
What to Bring
A valid, non-expired and acceptable form of identification such as:
- Any document issued by the state of WV or U.S. government containing voter’s name, including a WV driver’s license, passport, U.S. or WV government employee ID or military ID
- Driver’s license issued by another state
- Student ID card
- A concealed carry (pistol/revolver) permit
- Voter registration card
- Medicare card or Social Security card
- Birth certificate
- WV hunting or fishing license
- WV SNAP ID card
- WV TANF program ID card
- WV Medicaid ID card
- Bank or debit card
- Utility bill or bank statement issued within six months of the date of the election
- Health insurance card issued to the voter
- Any document issued by the WV or US government that displays the voter’s name
First-time voters must produce one of the following showing current name and address when voting:
- Valid photo identification
- Utility bill
- Bank Statement
- Government check
- Paycheck
- Any other official government document
Learn more about West Virginia’s voter ID laws here: https://sos.wv.gov/FormSearch/Elections/Informational/Flyer%20Version%20of%20Be%20Registered%20%20Be%20Ready%202.pdf
Find Your Election Day Voting Location
https://services.sos.wv.gov/Elections/Voter/AmIRegisteredToVote
Information on Early Voting
Early voting begins the 13th day before Election Day and ends the 3rd day before Election Day. Early voting takes place on weekdays and Saturdays within that time period and is conducted during regular business hours on weekdays and from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM on Saturdays.
Absentee and early voting ballots are counted after the polls close on Election Day.
Find Early Voting Dates and Locations
Early voting takes place at your county courthouse or judicial annex. Contact your county clerk to confirm early voting times and locations: https://sos.wv.gov/elections/Pages/CountyClerkDirectory.aspx
Contact Information
Find Local Contact Information
Office of the Secretary of State
State Capitol Building
Charleston, WV 25305
Email: Elections@wvsos.com
Phone: (304) 558-6000
(866) 767-8683 (Toll-free)
Fax: (304) 558-0900
Contact page: https://sos.wv.gov/Pages/contact.aspx
Wisconsin
State website: https://elections.wi.gov/voters
Eligibility
Who can register to vote?
To register to vote, you must be:
- A Wisconsin resident for at least 28 days leading up to Election Day
- A U.S. citizen
- At least 18 years of age by Election Day.
If voting by mail, you must register at least 20 days before Election Day. If voting in person at your polling place, you may register through Election Day. If voting in person at your municipal clerk’s office, you must register by the Friday before Election Day.
Felony Restrictions
If you were barred from voting due to a disqualifying felony conviction, you must first complete all of the terms of your sentence before you can have your voting rights restored.
Mental Capacity Restriction
If you have been declared mentally incompetent by a court, you will not be able to register to vote until your voting rights are restored.
How to Register
Easiest Way to Register
https://myvote.wi.gov/en-us/RegisterToVote
Other Ways to Register
You can also register to vote by mail or in person. Refer to the section “How to Register to Vote in Each State & Territory” for more information on your voting registration options.
Where to Check Voter Status
https://myvote.wi.gov/en-us/MyVoterInfo
Absentee Ballot (Vote by Mail)
You do not need an excuse to request an absentee ballot in Wisconsin.
Deadline to Request an Absentee Ballot
In Wisconsin, you have until 5:00 p.m. on the Thursday before the election to request your absentee ballot.
Deadline to Submit an Absentee Ballot
Your absentee ballot must be received by 8 p.m. on Election Day to be counted.
How to Request an Absentee Ballot
Visit: https://myvote.wi.gov/en-us/Vote-Absentee-By-Mail
- Option 1: Submit your request online here: https://myvote.wi.gov/en-US/VoteAbsentee
- Option 2: Download your absentee ballot and mail, fax or email in your request to your local municipal clerk. Find the request form here: https://elections.wi.gov/sites/default/files/legacy/2020-06/EL-121%2520Application%2520for%2520Absentee%2520Ballot%2520%2528rev.%25202020-06%2529.pdf
- Find your municipal clerk’s contact information here: https://myvote.wi.gov/en-US/MyMunicipalClerk
Voting Options
What to Bring
An acceptable form of photo identification such as:
- Wisconsin driver’s license (even if driving privileges are revoked or suspended, with or without a star in the right-hand corner)
- Wisconsin DOT-issued ID card, with or without a star in the right-hand corner
- Wisconsin DOT-issued identification card or driver license without a photo issued under the religious exemption
- U.S. passport
- Military ID card
- An identification card issued by a federally recognized Indian tribe in Wisconsin (even if expired before the most recent general election)
- A photo identification card issued by a Wisconsin-accredited university or college that contains date of issuance, signature of student, and an expiration date no later than two years after date of issuance (even if expired before the most recent general election)
- If the university or college ID is expired, the student ID must be accompanied by a separate document that proves current enrollment.
- Unexpired veteran’s photo identification card issued by the Veterans Health Administration of the federal Department of Veterans Affairs
- Certificate of naturalization that was issued not earlier than two years before the date of an election at which it is presented
- A driving receipt issued by Wisconsin DOT (valid for 45 days)
- An identification card receipt issued by Wisconsin DOT (valid for 45 days)
- A temporary identification card receipt issued by Wisconsin DOT through the Identification Petition Process (IDPP) (valid for 60 days)
Learn more about Wisconsin’s voter ID requirements here: https://bringit.wi.gov/
Find Your Election Day Voting Location
https://myvote.wi.gov/en-us/FindMyPollingPlace
Information on Early Voting
Early in-person voting begins 14 days before and ends 3 days before Election Day in Wisconsin. However, this is only for those with an absentee ballot.
Find Early Voting Dates and Locations
In Wisconsin, voting an absentee ballot in person is considered early voting. You can apply for an absentee ballot and vote in person at your municipal clerk’s office: https://myvote.wi.gov/en-US/MyMunicipalClerk
Contact Information
Find Local Contact Information
Office Address
Wisconsin Elections Commission
212 East Washington Ave, 3rd Floor
Madison, WI 53703
Local: (608) 266-8005
Toll-Free: (866) VOTE-WIS
Fax: (608) 267-0500
Contact page: <a href="https://myvote.wi.gov/en-us/Contact-Us
Mailing Address
Wisconsin Elections Commission
P.O. Box 7984
Madison, WI 53707-7984
Email: Elections@wi.gov
Wyoming
State website: https://sos.wyo.gov/Elections/Default.aspx
Eligibility
Who can register to vote?
To register to vote, you must be:
- A Wyoming resident
- A U.S. citizen
- At least 18 years of age by Election Day.
You must register at least 14 days before Election Day.
Felony Restrictions
If you were barred from voting due to a disqualifying felony conviction, you must first complete all of the terms of your sentence before you can have your voting rights restored.
Mental Capacity Restriction
If you have been declared mentally incompetent by a court, you will not be able to register to vote until your voting rights are restored.
How to Register
Easiest Way to Register
In person at your local county clerk’s office.
Other Ways to Register
You can also register to vote by mail. Refer to the section “How to Register to Vote in Each State & Territory” for more information on your voting options.
Where to Check Voter Status
By contacting your local county elections office.
Absentee Ballot (Vote by Mail)
Voters in Wyoming do not need an excuse to vote by absentee ballot.
Deadline to Request an Absentee Ballot
In Wyoming, you have until the day before Election Day to request an absentee ballot..
Deadline to Submit an Absentee Ballot
Your absentee ballot must be received by 7 p.m. on Election Day.
How to Request an Absentee Ballot
Visit: https://sos.wyo.gov/elections/state/AbsenteeVoting.aspx
- Option 1: Download your absentee ballot and mail in your request to your local county elections office.
- Military and overseas voters: https://sos.wyo.gov/Forms/Elections/General/AbsenteeRequestForm.pdf
- All other voters: https://sos.wyo.gov/Forms/Elections/General/AbsenteeRequestForm-Standard.pdf
- Option 2: Request your absentee ballot application in person.
Voting Options
What to Bring
An acceptable form of photo identification, which includes:
- Wyoming driver’s license or ID card
- Valid U.S. passport
- Tribal ID card
- U.S. military ID card
- Driver’s license or ID card from another state
- University of Wyoming student ID
- Wyoming Community College student ID
- Wyoming public school student ID
- Valid Medicare or Medicaid insurance card (only accepted until December 31, 2029)
Find Your Election Day Voting Location
https://sos.wyo.gov/Elections/PollPlace/default.aspx
Information on Early Voting
Wyoming permits in-person early voting, but whether this is available to you depends on which county you live in. Contact your local county government to find out if/when early voting is available. If you live in a county that does not have early voting, you may vote early by requesting and returning an absentee ballot.
Contact Information
Find Local Contact Information
Elections Division
Herschler Building East
122 W 25th St Suite 100
Cheyenne, WY 82002-0020
Email: Elections@wyo.gov
Phone: 307-777-5860
Fax: 307-777-7640
Third-Party Organizations That Can Help You Register
Third-party organizations are also resources to register to vote. They also provide other voting-related services, allowing you to:
- Register to vote in your state.
- Check your registration status.
- Request absentee ballots to vote by mail in your state.
- Get election reminders.
- Locate your nearest local polling place.
- Fill out census forms.
These organizations typically help you register to vote online through their websites. They process your voting registration application for free.
They also provide information and answer any questions you may have regarding voting registration, where and how to vote, and other helpful information. Check out the contact information for third-party organizations that provide registration assistance and services below:
- Vote.org at Vote.org
- Rock the Vote at RockTheVote.org
- U.S. Vote Foundation at USVoteFoundation.org
- When We All Vote at WhenWeAllVote.org
Instances When You May Need to Re-Register
You may need to re-register to vote if one of the following applies to you:
- You were deemed incompetent by a court
- You recently completed a criminal sentence
- You have changed your name, address or political affiliation
Do you have to vote with the party you are registered with?
For federal, state or local general elections, you are not required to vote with the party you are registered with. However, you may be required to do so for your primary election or caucus depending on your state. Review the section “Primary, General, and Special Elections” to see if your state has open primary elections, which would allow you to vote with any party.
Voting Registration Information as Public Record
Once filed, voter registration information is public record. However, each state has rules on what is included in public records, who can request voter files and what information is kept confidential. To learn who can request voter records in your state, as well as what information is available to requestors, view the chart here: https://www.ncsl.org/research/elections-and-campaigns/access-to-and-use-of-voter-registration-lists.aspx
How to Vote
Early Voting and Absentee Voting
Early voting and absentee voting are both processes that allow electors to vote ahead of Election Day, but there are key differences between the two. Absentee voting is available in every state. However, in some states, only certain voters can request an absentee ballot. Early voting, on the other hand, is not available in every state but does not have any eligibility requirements.
Early Voting
What is early voting?
Early voting allows you to cast your ballot at your designated polling place ahead of Election Day. Early voting periods vary by state and can range anywhere from one to 46 days before Election Day. However, it is not allowed in all 50 states.
States That Allow Early Voting
- Alaska
- California
- D.C., Washington
- Florida
- Georgia
- Idaho
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Iowa
- Kansas
- Louisiana
- Maine
- Maryland
- Arizona
- Massachusetts
- Michigan
- Minnesota
- Montana
- Nebraska
- Nevada
- New Jersey
- New Mexico
- New York
- North Carolina
- North Dakota
- Ohio
- Arkansas
- Oklahoma
- Pennsylvania
- South Dakota
- Tennessee
- Texas
- Utah
- Vermont
- Virginia
- Washington
- West Virginia
- Wisconsin
- Wyoming
Time Frames for Early Voting by State & Territory
| Location | Early Voting Begins | Early Voting Ends |
|---|---|---|
| Alaska | 15 days before | Day of Election Day |
| Arizona | 26 days before | Friday before Election Day |
| Arkansas | 15 days before | 5 p.m. on the Monday before Election Day |
| California | 29 days before | Day before Election Day |
| District of Columbia | 7 days before Election Day | Saturday before Election Day |
| Florida | At least 10 days before Election Day | 3 days before Election Day, but the supervisor of elections may extend to the second day before the election. |
| Georgia | Fourth Monday before Election Day | Friday before Election Day |
| Idaho | Third Monday before Election Day | 5 p.m. on Friday before Election Day |
| Illinois | 40 days before Election Day for temporary polling locations and 15 days before permanent locations | Day before Election Day |
| Indiana | 28 days before Election Day | Noon the day before Election Day |
| Iowa | 29 days before Election Day | 5 p.m. the day before Election Day |
| Kansas | 20 days before Election Day | Noon the day before Election Day |
| Louisiana | 14 days before Election Day | 7 days before Election Day |
| Maine | 30 days before Election Day | 3 business days before Election Day |
| Maryland | Second Thursday before Election Day | Thursday before Election Day |
| Massachusetts | 11 days before Election Day | Second business day before Election Day |
| Michigan | 40 days before Election Day | Day before Election Day |
| Minnesota | 46 days before Election Day | 5 p.m. the day before Election Day |
| Montana | 30 days before Election Day | Day before Election Day |
| Nebraska | 30 days before Election Day | Election Day |
| Nevada | Third Saturday before Election Day | Friday before Election Day |
| New Jersey | 45 days before Election Day | 3 p.m. the day before Election Day |
| New Mexico | Third Saturday before Election Day | Saturday before Election Day |
| New York | 10 days before Election Day | Second day before Election Day |
| North Carolina | Third Wednesday before Election Day | Third Wednesday before Election Day |
| North Dakota | 15 days before Election Day | 15 days before Election Day |
| Ohio | 28 days before Election Day | 2 p.m. Monday before Election Day |
| Oklahoma | 2 p.m. Monday before Election Day | 2 p.m. Monday before Election Day |
| South Dakota | 45 days before Election Day | 5 p.m. the day before Election Day |
| Tennessee | 20 days before Election Day | 5 days before Election Day |
| Texas | 17 days before Election Day | 4 days before Election Day |
| Utah | 14 days before Election Day | Friday before Election Day but could be extended until the day before the election |
| Vermont | 45 days before Election Day | 5 p.m. the day before Election Day |
| Virginia | Second Saturday before Election Day | 5 p.m. on the Saturday before Election Day |
| West Virginia | 13 days before Election Day | Three days before Election Day |
| Wisconsin | 14 days before Election Day | Sunday before Election Day |
| Wyoming | 40 days before Election Day | Day before Election Day |
Absentee Voting and Voting By Mail
Absentee vs. Voting by Mail
Absentee voting is a process available to registered voters who are unable to head to the polls on Election Day. This is generally military service members and citizens who are currently overseas. Some states have expanded the eligibility requirements so check your specific state.
Voting by mail is the process of completing a paper ballot and mailing it to a local elections office to be counted in an upcoming election. It can be considered a form of absentee or early voting, as those who vote by mail are not physically heading to local polling stations.
Colorado, Hawaii, Oregon, Washington and Utah automatically allow all state residents to vote by mail. In these states, residents do not need to specifically register for a mail-in ballot. Instead, an automated mail-in voting system sends every registered voter a ballot to fill out and send back once completed.
Absentee Voting Rules
In some states, voters must meet certain eligibility requirements to request an absentee ballot, while other states are “no-excuse” states that allow anyone to request absentee ballots.
No-Excuse States Where Anyone Can Request an Absentee Ballot
- Alabama
- Arizona
- District of Columbia
- Florida
- Georgia
- Idaho
- New Mexico
- North Carolina
- North Dakota
- Ohio
- Illinois
- Iowa
- Kansas
- Maine
- Maryland
- Oklahoma
- South Dakota
- Utah
- Vermont
- Minnesota
- Montana
- Nebraska
- Nevada
- New Jersey
- Wisconsin
- Wyoming
States Where an Excuse Is Required for Absentee Voting
- Arkansas
- Connecticut
- Delaware
- Indiana
- Kentucky
- Louisiana
- Massachusetts
- Michigan
- Mississippi
- Missouri
- New Hampshire
- New York
- Pennsylvania
- Rhode Island
- South Carolina
- Tennessee
- Texas
- Virginia
- West Virginia
States With All-Mail Voting
Registered voters in these five states automatically receive ballots that they submit by mail:
- Colorado
- Hawaii
- Oregon
- Washington
- Utah
How to Request an Absentee Ballot
Refer to the section called “Voter Registration Information by State and Territory” to learn about requesting an absentee ballot in your specific state or territory.
You must be a registered voter to request an absentee ballot. If you do not live in a “no-excuse
state,” you will have additional requirements set by your specific state to qualify for an absentee ballot.
Be sure to double check which ballot you are requesting. Some states require you to request an absentee ballot for each specific election. Therefore, you will have to request an absentee ballot for the primary election, and then again for the general election. When there are primary and general elections happening on different schedules countrywide, you may accidentally request a ballot for the wrong election.
In most states, there are deadlines to request and return your absentee ballot. Take note of the dates to ensure that you do not miss any important deadlines.
Voting In-Person at Your Polling Place on Election Day
To vote in person, you must visit your designated polling place. Your polling place will depend on your address and it can be a school, library or other public venue. You will likely not be allowed to vote if you attempt to vote at a polling place to which you were not assigned. In some cases, you may need to obtain a provisional ballot.
Every state assigns its residents designated polling places where they will go to cast their votes on Election Day. They can change between elections. As such, double check your polling place before every election.
Learn about resources to find your polling place and/or access contact information for your state elections office by referring to the “Voter Registration Information by State and Territory” section.
Can I change my polling place?
You can request a change in polling locations if you have a disability and the location is not accessible. If you have changed addresses, you may be assigned a new polling location.
Find your local election office contact information on your state’s election website to request a polling location change or to check if you have been assigned a new polling place location after you moved. You can find your state election website of this guide in the “Voter Registration Information by State and Territory” section.
What to Bring to Your Designated Polling Place by State & Territory
In the following states, residents are not required to bring any documents to vote (an asterisk (*) indicates that documents are required in certain situations; refer to the next section to learn more about these situations.):
- California
- District of Columbia
- Washington
- Illinois
- Maine*
- Maryland*
- Massachusetts*
- Minnesota
- Nebraska*
- Nevada*
- New Jersey*
- New Mexico*
- New York*
- North Carolina
- Oregon
- Pennsylvania
- Vermont
- Wyoming
If your state is not listed above, view the requirements for the remaining states here:
Alabama: You must present a photo ID to vote. If you only have a non-photo ID, you will receive a provisional ballot and must bring the proper ID by 5 p.m. on Election Day. You can also receive a waiver if two election officials confirm your identity.
Alaska: A photo or non-photo ID must be presented, such as a voter registration card, driver’s license, birth certificate, passport, hunting/fishing license, utility bill, bank statement, government check or document that includes your name and address.
American Samoa: You must present your voter ID when heading to the polls. If you do not have one, you can present a government photo ID or U.S. passport.
Arizona: You must present a photo ID to vote. If you only have a non-photo ID, you will receive a provisional ballot and must return to bring a photo ID within five days of casting your provisional ballot..
Arkansas: You must present a photo ID to vote. If you only have a non-photo ID, you will receive a provisional ballot and must return to bring a photo ID no later than the first Monday following the election.
Colorado: You must present an acceptable form of identification, such as a Colorado driver’s license, U.S. passport, voter ID card, or a utility bill from the last 60 days with your name and address.
Connecticut: You must bring identification, but the ID does not have to have a photo. If it does not have a photo, it must have your name and signature or name and address.
Delaware: A photo or non-photo ID must be presented, such as a driver’s license, birth certificate, passport, utility bill, bank statement, government check or document that includes your name and address. If you do not have proof of ID, you must sign an affidavit to confirm your identity and address.
Florida: You must present a photo ID to vote, such as a Florida driver’s license or ID card, U.S. passport, debit or credit card, military identification, student ID, retirement center ID, neighborhood association identification, public assistance identification, veteran health ID card issued by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs, or license to carry a concealed weapon. If you only have a non-photo ID or do not have one at all, you will receive a provisional ballot, which will be examined by the Supervisor of Elections to determine your eligibility to vote. Your identity will be confirmed by comparing the signature on your provisional ballot certificate envelope with the signature on your voter registration record. If you are deemed eligible to vote, your provisional ballot will be counted just like a standard ballot; if you are not eligible, your ballot will remain sealed in the certificate envelope and be marked “rejected.” You should then receive a notice explaining the reason for your rejected provisional ballot.
Georgia: You must present a photo ID to vote. If you only have a non-photo ID, you will receive a provisional ballot and must return to bring a photo ID within three days of the polls closing.
Hawaii: If it is your first time voting in Hawaii and you are registered to vote by mail, a photo or non-photo ID, current utility bill, bank statement, government check or document must be presented. Otherwise, you are not required to provide any ID.
Idaho: A photo or non-photo ID must be presented, such as a driver’s license, passport, concealed carry weapon license, tribal ID card or student ID card. If you do not have proof of ID, you must sign an affidavit to confirm your identity and address.
Indiana: You must present a photo ID to vote. If you do not have one, you will receive a provisional ballot and have until noon 10 days after the Election to provide the proper documentation.
Iowa: You must present an acceptable form of photo identification such as an Iowa driver’s license, U.S. passport or Iowa voter ID card.
Kansas: You must present a photo ID to vote. If you don’t have one, you will receive a provisional ballot and have until noon 10 days after the Election to provide the proper documentation.
Kentucky: You must present an acceptable form of photo identification such as a Kentucky driver’s license, U.S. passport or military ID.
Louisiana: You must present a photo ID to vote. If you do not have one, you must cast your vote by signing a voter affidavit that contains personal identification information.
Maine*: If it is your first time voting in Maine, a photo or non-photo ID, current utility bill, bank statement, government check or document must be presented. Otherwise, you are not required to provide any ID.
Maryland*: If it is your first time voting in Maryland, a photo or non-photo ID, current utility bill, bank statement, government check or document must be presented. Otherwise, you are not required to provide any ID.
Massachusetts*: If it is your first time voting in Massachusetts, a photo or non-photo ID, current utility bill, bank statement, government check or document must be presented. Otherwise, you are not required to provide any ID.
Michigan: You must present a photo ID to vote. If you do not have one, you must cast your vote by signing a voter affidavit attesting that you are not in possession of a picture identification.
Mississippi: You must present a photo ID to vote. If you do not have one, you must cast your vote by signing on a voter affidavit and returning with a photo ID within five days of casting your affidavit ballot.
Missouri: A photo or non-photo ID must be presented. If you do not have one, you will receive a provisional ballot and have until Election Day to return with a photo ID or your signature is verified by an election official.
Montana: A photo or non-photo ID must be presented. If you do not have proof of ID, you can request a “Polling Place Elector ID form.” You can also vote by provisional ballot and return to the county by 5 p.m. the day after the election with an acceptable form of ID.
Nebraska*: If it is your first time voting in Nebraska and you are registered to vote by mail, a photo or non-photo ID, current utility bill, bank statement, government check or document must be presented. Otherwise, you are not required to provide any ID.
Nevada*: If it is your first time voting in Nevada, a photo or non-photo ID, current utility bill, bank statement, government check or document must be presented. Otherwise, you are not required to provide any ID.
New Hampshire: You must present a photo ID to vote. If you do not have one, you can still vote if an election official can confirm your identity. Otherwise, you must complete a Challenged Voter Affidavit and have your photo taken. If you cannot have your photo taken for religious reasons, you can complete a Religious Exemption Affidavit.
New Jersey*: You may have to show identification at the polls if your registration cannot be verified and you are a first-time voter. Otherwise, you are not required to provide any ID.
New Mexico*: If it is your first time voting in New Mexico and you submitted your voter registration application by mail, a photo or non-photo ID, current utility bill, bank statement, government check or document must be presented. Otherwise, you are not required to provide any ID.
New York*: If it is your first time voting in New York and you submitted your voter registration application by mail, a photo or non-photo ID, current utility bill, bank statement, government check or document must be presented. Otherwise, you are not required to provide any ID.
North Dakota: You must present a photo ID to vote. If you do not have one, you may vote with a provisional ballot and return with a photo ID for your vote to be counted.
Ohio: You must present a photo or non photo ID to vote, such as a state-issued driver’s license, military ID, utility bill, bank statement, government check or document. Social Security cards, passports, driver’s licenses from other states, birth certificates and insurance cards are not acceptable. If you do not have an acceptable ID, you may vote with a provisional ballot and give your driver’s license number, state ID number or Social Security Number (SSN).
Oklahoma: A photo ID must be presented when heading to the polls. If you do not have one, you will receive a provisional ballot and must sign a voter affidavit.
Puerto Rico: The Electoral Identity Card (TIE, in Spanish) needs to be presented at the poll. You can also vote by presenting your driver’s license or U.S. passport.
Rhode Island: A photo ID must be presented when heading to the polls. If you do not have one, you will receive a provisional ballot and your signature must match the one on your voter registration card.
South Carolina: A photo ID must be presented when heading to the polls. If you do not have one, you will receive a provisional ballot and must return before the election is certified.
South Dakota: A photo ID must be presented when heading to the polls. If you do not have one, you will have to sign a personal identification affidavit.
Tennessee: A photo ID must be presented when heading to the polls, such as a state-issued driver’s license or ID, U.S. passport, military ID or handgun carry permit photo ID. If you do not have one, you will receive a provisional ballot and will have to return to your local election commission office within two business days.
Texas: A photo ID must be presented when heading to the polls. If you do not have one, you can still cast a ballot by providing a form of ID and completing a “Reasonable Impediment Declaration.”
Utah: One primary ID (state-issued driver’s license or ID card, concealed carry permit, U.S. passport or tribal ID card) OR two secondary IDs (utility bill, bank statement, birth certificate, Social Security card) must be presented when heading to the polls. If you do not have one, you will receive a provisional ballot and have two days to return with a valid photo ID and sign an affidavit.
Virginia: A photo ID must be presented when heading to the polls, such as a state-issued driver’s license or ID, U.S. passport, military ID, student ID, utility bill, bank statement, government check or other document. If you do not have one, you will receive a provisional ballot.
Washington: This state has all-mail voting but, in some cases, voters may need to visit a polling place to cast their ballot. You can either show a valid photo ID or sign an affidavit.
West Virginia: A photo ID must be presented when heading to the polls. If you do not have one, you will receive a provisional ballot and your signature will be matched to the one on your voter registration card.
Wisconsin: A photo ID must be presented when heading to the polls, such as a state-issued driver’s license or ID card, military ID card, U.S. passport, ID card receipt, certificate of naturalization or Veteran Affairs ID card.
How to Report Polling Location Issues
To report polling location issues in your state, contact your local elections office. You can also file a report by filling out the Election Complaint Report form online (https://civilrights.justice.gov/report/) and by contacting the Voting Section within the Civil Rights Division here: https://civilrights.justice.gov/#contact-crt.
Find your local election office contact information by visiting your state’s election website. Find your state or territory election website on this guide in the “Voter Registration Information by State and Territory” section.
Can I vote online?
In the United States, you cannot vote online for local, state or federal elections. You must cast your vote by mail or in person.
Elections in the United States
Types of Elections in the United States
In every election, there are two stages: the primary election followed by the general election. In some cases, there is a special election held to fill a vacant position in the case of a death, impeachment or resignation.
Primary, General, and Special Elections
In a primary election — the first stage in the voting process in any election — voters cast a ballot to determine which candidates will be selected for the general election. Depending on the state, primary elections can be either an open election or closed election.
In an open primary election, you can vote for any candidate, regardless of your or the candidate’s party affiliation. In a closed election, you can only vote for a candidate who belongs to the political party you are registered with, if it is a “partisan” position.
The winners of the primary elections will move on to the next stage in the process: the general election.
A general election is the final election in the voting process and will determine who wins the election and is elected into office.
A special election, on the other hand, is not a part of the regular election process. It only occurs if an officeholder can no longer occupy his or her position due to death, resignation or impeachment.
Congressional, State, and Local Elections
Congressional Elections and Midterm Elections
Congressional elections are elections that occur every two years to vote in members of Congress. Unlike presidential elections, which use the Electoral College to determine the winners, representatives or senators are chosen by popular vote. This means that the representative or Senate candidate with the most votes wins.
Midterm elections are the Congressional elections that occur during the halfway point between presidential elections. They are the Congressional election that occurs two years into a presidential term — mid way through the presidency.
How Congressional Elections Work
Congressional elections differ based on which chamber is hosting the election: The U.S. House of Representatives, and the U.S. Senate.
Each chamber has its own eligibility requirements, voting schedule and chamber size.
U.S. House of Representatives
There are 435 voting members in the U.S. House of Representatives, and every two years they are up for re-election. States are broken down by district and voters elect their chosen representative for that district.
To be a representative, there are certain requirements you must meet: You must be at least 25 years of age, be a U.S. citizen for at least seven years and live in the state you are seeking to represent. Every state has a different number of representatives, determined by population size.
U.S. Senate
Every state has two senators, regardless of population size. To be a senator, you must be a U.S. citizen for at least nine years, live in the state you are representing, and be at least 30 years of age. Senators serve six-year terms, and are voted in by popular vote.
Congressional elections to elect members of the Senate occur every two years. In each election — either the midterm or presidential election — a total of one third of all senators are on the ballot. In other words, the election of senators is staggered and is held every two years with voters electing senators one third at a time.
State and Local Elections
Offices to Elect in State and Local Elections
At the state level, the following offices are generally elected:
- Governor
- Lieutenant Governor
- Secretary of State
- Attorney General
- Comptroller
- Treasurer
- State Senators
- State Legislators.
At the local level, the following offices are generally elected:
- Mayor
- City council members
- County offices (county commission, board of education, etc.)
- Municipal offices
Election Administration at the State Level
For elections conducted at the state level, a chief election official is selected to oversee the entire election process for the state, and have full authority to operate as they see fit within the bounds of the law. What differs from state to state is who is selected as the official.
In 24 states, the official is the elected Secretary of State. However, in Maine and Tennessee, the state legislatures select the chief election official. In states like Hawaii and New York, a board or commission appointed by the governor is responsible for overseeing the elections process.
Election Administration at the Local Level
Each state has its own way of operating when it comes to the election administration. In some states, a Board oversees the elections, while in others, it is a commission or a single person.
Ballot Initiatives
Ballot initiatives are proposed statutes or amendments that are written by state or local residents and go on the ballot to be voted on in the upcoming election. This gives voters the power to raise awareness on an issue — and in some states — bypass the state legislature.
Each state has its own requirements for ballot initiatives to pass, but the general requirement for approval is a majority vote. The unique consideration in some states occurs when votes cast on the initiative only equal a fraction of the total amount of votes cast in the election. In these cases in some states, the initiative must receive at least 35% to 51% of the total votes cast in the election to pass, depending on the state.
Only the following 25 states (and Washington D.C.) offer ballot initiatives:
- Alaska
- Arizona
- Arkansas
- California
- Colorado
- D.C., Washington
- Florida
- Idaho
- Illinois
- Maine
- Maryland
- Massachusetts
- Michigan
- Mississippi
- Missouri
- Montana
- Nebraska
- Nevada
- North Dakota
- Ohio
- Oklahoma
- Oregon
- South Dakota
- Utah
- Washington
- Wyoming
Direct vs. Indirect Ballot Initiatives
There are two types of initiatives: direct initiatives, which are proposals that go directly on the ballot once they qualify, and indirect initiatives, which are first submitted to the state legislature.
Not all states allow direct ballot initiatives or indirect ballot initiatives, and some states allow both.
States with direct ballot initiatives are: Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, District of Columbia, Florida, Idaho, Illinois, Maryland, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Oregon, South Dakota.
States with indirect ballot initiatives are: Alaska, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Mississippi, Nevada, Ohio, Wyoming.
States that offer both: Utah, Washington
How an Initiative Is Qualified for the Ballot
Each state sets its own requirements regarding what it takes for an initiative to qualify for the ballot.
The initiative will typically start by filing the proposed petition with a state official and having it reviewed to ensure its compliance with statutory requirements and overall language. This is followed by drafting a ballot title and summary that voters will read when casting their votes. Then, petitioners usually must gather a certain number of signatures from registered voters in the state and submit it to the state elections office for verification. The initiative will then go directly on the ballot or go to the state legislature, depending on the state.
Voting on Initiatives
Once an initiative is on the ballot through a direct or indirect process, it must obtain a certain number of votes to pass. The number of votes needed to pass varies by state. In some states, the initiative with the most votes passes. In others, the initiative will only pass if it reaches a specific percentage based on total votes cast in the current or previous election.
Presidential Elections
U.S. Constitutional Requirements for Presidential Candidates
To qualify as a presidential candidate in the United States, you must meet three key eligibility requirements:
- You must be a natural-born citizen of the United States.
- You must be at least 35 years of age.
- You must have been a resident of the United States for 14 years.
Presidential Election Cycle
The presidential election process happens every four years on the first Tuesday after the first Monday in November. Unlike congressional elections, the presidential candidate is voted in by the Electoral College, not by popular vote.
In any presidential election, there are four steps. It starts with the first voting phase, which can be a primary election or caucus, depending on the state. This is followed by a series of national conventions, during which each political party selects its nominee to represent the party and the presidential candidate then announces his or her vice president (also known as a running mate). The general election, on Election Day, comes next and requires voters to cast their ballot for their choice of president and vice president. The Electoral College, comprising a group of electors from each state, then casts a vote to elect the president. The candidate who gets more than half of the electoral votes wins the election. Then, in December, members of the Electoral College officially vote in the elected president who will start his or her term on January 20.
Primaries and Caucuses
Primaries, Caucuses, and Political Conventions all have the same goal: to determine which candidates will represent voters in the general election.
Primary election and caucuses are events wherein citizens vote for the candidates they would like to represent them in the general elections. Some states use primary elections to vote for candidates, while others use a caucus.
State Primaries and Caucuses for the Presidential Elections
There are two main types of state primaries: open primaries, which allows voters to select any candidate they like, regardless of political party, and closed primaries, which limits voters to the candidates in their political parties. Each state decides which system it will use.
While most states conduct primary elections, some U.S. states and territories organize caucuses. The states and territories that hold conduct caucuses rather than primary elections are:
- American Samoa
- Guam
- Iowa
- Nevada
- North Dakota
- Wyoming
- Kentucky (only for the Republican candidate)
- The U.S. Virgin Islands
For the above locations, a caucus can fall into one of two categories. The first type is an open caucus, where voters can select a candidate from any political party (similar to open primaries). The second type is a closed caucus, which limits voters to the candidates in their political parties.
In the caucus process, meetings are held in various venues throughout the country during which members of the political parties express their support for the candidates and attempt to rally more supporters. At the end of the caucus, residents vote for their candidate of choice.
Political Conventions
Political conventions happen after a primary or caucus. At political conventions, the political party officially announces which candidate will represent the political party in the general election.
Depending on the election process and election outcomes while electing a party candidate, there are four types of political conventions:
- National convention – This occurs when a political party is ready to declare its candidate for the presidency (the delegates have elected a winner).
- Contested convention – This is the type of political convention where no candidate has the majority of delegates needed for them to be named the party representative. This will then require delegates to vote for the presidential nominee.
- Brokered convention – This is the type of political convention where, after pledged delegates vote for their candidate of choice, there is still no majority win. At this point, both unpledged superdelegates and pledged delegates get to vote for their candidate of choice to represent the party.
- State convention – This is a convention run by a political party to determine which electors will be chosen for the party in the Electoral College process.
What happens at a national political convention?
At a national convention, the political party committee officially declares which candidate will become its nominee and represent the party in the general election. The nominee will also announce his or her vice-president, or their running mate. It is usually a full-day event where speakers talk about the party’s key priorities, and ends with the formal nomination of the candidate.
The candidate is elected by delegates of the political party hosting the convention. A delegate is someone who has been elected for a 2-year term to represent their political party within a specific voting precinct. Delegates meet at national conventions to select the candidates that will be in the running to represent their party in primary and general elections. They also vote on the rules governing the party, the platform of the party, and party officials.
There are two types of delegates present at the national convention: the pledged delegates and the unpledged delegates.
Pledged delegates are those who support the candidate that won the first voting phase — the primary election or caucus. Unpledged delegates, or superdelegates, are members of the party who are not bound by the primary or caucus election and can support any candidate.
Contested and Brokered Conventions
A national political convention is considered “contested” if no candidate has the majority of delegates. This will then require delegates to vote for the presidential nominee. This can take one or several rounds to determine the nominee depending on how the first one goes.
For the first round, the candidate will typically receive votes from the pledged or bound delegates they awarded during the primary or caucuses. However, unpledged delegates are free to vote for anyone. If there is still no majority win following the first one, the convention is then called “brokered,” which allows superdelegates to vote in subsequent rounds and pledged delegates to vote for anyone.
Electoral College
The Electoral College is the group of state electors who elect the president during every presidential election. There are currently 538 state electors in total, making up the Electoral College. Unlike congressional and state elections whose winners are determined by popular vote, the Electoral College votes for the president, not the citizens directly.
Every state has a specific number of state electors who are responsible for voting for the president by representing their state. The number of state electors each state has is equal to the number of Congressional members — from the House of Representatives and the Senate — that the state has.
Electoral College members are selected via a two-part process:
- Political parties select potential electors in each state: Parties will typically nominate electors at state conventions, or the central committee of the party will vote for the candidates they wish to be electors.
This process varies from state to state and by political party. The types of candidates typically selected to be electors include party leaders and elected officials, or people who have an affiliation with the party’s candidate for president.
- Voters cast their vote for the president and potential electors: The second part of the selection process takes place on Election Day. When voters cast their vote for president, they are also casting their votes for electors in their state (either the Republican or Democratic electors that have been selected in step one above). Then, whichever candidate who wins the presidency, the electors affiliated with their political party are also elected.
The only exceptions to this occur in the states Nebraska and Maine, where they have a proportional distribution of electors. The winner receives two electors and the others go to the winner of each congressional district.
How the Electoral College Process Works
The Electoral College operates on a winner-takes-all system. On Election Day, as each vote is counted, the candidate who earns the most votes — the popular vote — for that state earns the electoral votes for the entire state. To win the presidency, the candidate must earn at least 270 electoral votes; half of the total electoral votes.
With this system, winning the nationwide popular vote does not guarantee winning the election. Instead, earning votes in states with the highest number of electors is generally what impacts winning the election the most.
On Election Night, there is a projected winner. However, electors do not meet until mid-December to cast their vote. In many states, electors are required to follow their state’s popular vote.
What Happens If No Candidate Wins the Electoral College
If no candidate earns 270 or more electoral votes, the House of Representatives will then be responsible for choosing the new president, and the Senate is responsible for choosing the vice president.
Swing States
In the United States, most states are known as “red” or “blue” states, based on which political party most residents of the state align with. Some states are considered “swing” states because they do not have a majority of one political party affiliation. Therefore, it is not obvious which political party will win elections in the state beforehand.
These states tend to have higher numbers of state electors, which necessarily has a larger impact on election outcomes. The most prominent swing states are:
- Arizona
- Colorado
- Florida
- North Carolina
- Ohio
- Georgia
- Iowa
- Michigan
- Pennsylvania
- Virginia
- Minnesota
- Nevada
- New Hampshire
- Wisconsin
Political Parties in the U.S.
Democratic Party – www.Democrats.org
Republican Party – www.GOP.com
Green Party – www.GP.org
Libertarian Party – www.LP.org
Constitution Party – https://www.constitutionparty.com
Democratic Socialists of America – https://www.dsausa.org
Independent Party – www.independentamericanparty.org
Reform Party – www.reformparty.org
Tea Party – www.teaparty.org
Communist Party USA – www.cpusa.org
Who can you vote for on Election Day?
Who you can vote for on Election Day will depend on your state rules and the type of election it is. Each state has its own rules regarding who residents can vote for in primary elections and caucuses. Some limit voters to candidates within their own political party while others allow them to vote for anyone.
To see your state’s rules regarding who you can vote for, see the “Voter Registration Information by State and Territory” section of this guide.
For general elections, residents countrywide are able to vote for any candidate, regardless of political affiliation.
Write-In Candidates for Federal and State Elections
In some states, candidates who are not listed on the ballot for the election can be written in by voters who want to elect them. However, the candidates may need to complete a pre-approval process for their votes to be counted.
As the rules vary by state, visit your state’s elections site for more information about write-in candidate policies. You can find your state or territory’s election website in the “Voter Registration Information by State and Territory” section of this guide.
Where to Learn More About the Candidates Up for Election in Your State
You can learn more about the candidates running in your state by visiting your state’s elections website or Secretary of State website. Refer to the section “Voter Registration Information by State and Territory” for contact information and more.
What are sample ballots?
Sample ballots give voters an idea of what their real ballots will look like on Election Day. They typically show the races, candidates and ballot measures for that election. You can request a sample ballot through your state or territory website, which you can find on this guide in the “Voter Registration Information by State and Territory” section.
How Voting Results Are Calculated
Each state uses its own method to calculate votes on Election Day. However, there are some standard ways to tally up votes. In most states, voters use electronic machines to cast their votes. As such, the system automatically tallies up the votes for each candidate.
Paper ballots are generally counted using optical scanners. As of 2019, less than 5 percent of ballots were counted by hand across the nation.
How to Volunteer at a Polling Site on Election Day
To volunteer at a polling site, you must first make sure you are eligible to work. Click the following link to review your state’s worker laws and statutes to ensure you qualify: https://www.eac.gov/sites/default/files/eac_assets/1/28/Compendium.2016.pdf
If you meet the requirements, visit this page https://www.eac.gov/help-america-vote and follow the instructions under the “Be a Part of Democracy. Help America Vote” section to look up how to apply to volunteer in your state county.
You can also get jobs specifically for election season, including but not limited to:
- Poll worker
- Election communications coordinator
- Voter outreach coordinator
- Voter translator
- Election technology specialist/voting system technicians
