How to Vote
Voting is your right. Here's a straightforward guide to every method available — in person, early, or by mail.
Vote In Person on Election Day
Find your polling place
Use Ballotbox or your local election office website to locate the polling place assigned to your address.
Bring valid ID
ID requirements vary by state. Check your state's rules before election day — acceptable forms include driver's licenses, passports, and more.
Check your registration
Confirm your voter registration is active and your information is up to date well in advance of the election.
Go to your assigned polling location
On election day, you must vote at the polling place assigned to your registered address, not just any polling location.
Cast your ballot
Poll workers will verify your registration, provide a ballot, and guide you through the process. Your vote is private.
Vote Early
Check early voting dates in your area
Early voting periods and availability vary by state and county. Look up your local dates before making plans.
Find an early voting site
Early voting sites are often county clerk offices, libraries, or community centers. Use Ballotbox to find sites near you.
Bring your ID
The same ID requirements that apply on election day typically apply during the early voting period.
Vote at any authorized early voting site
Unlike election day, you can usually vote at any official early voting location in your county — not just the one assigned to your address.
Vote by Mail or Drop Box
Request your mail ballot
Deadlines to request a mail ballot vary by state — some require weeks of advance notice. Check your state's deadline early.
Complete your ballot following all instructions carefully
Read every instruction. Errors such as stray marks or incomplete forms can cause a ballot to be rejected.
Sign the envelope
Most states require a signature on the outer envelope. Missing or mismatched signatures are a leading cause of rejected mail ballots.
Return by mail or drop box before the deadline
Mail ballots must be received (or postmarked, depending on your state) by the deadline. Drop boxes offer a secure alternative to mailing.
Track your ballot status online
Most states provide an online tracker so you can confirm your ballot was received and counted.