Election Education

Election Day Checklist

Everything you need to be prepared

2 to 4 Weeks Before Election Day

Confirm your voter registration. Visit your state's election website or vote.org/verify to make sure your registration is current and your name and address are correct.Check your state's ID requirements. Find out what forms of identification you need to bring. If you need a new ID, get it now — do not wait until the last minute.Find your polling place. Look it up at your state election website or vote.org/polling-place-locator. Note the address and hours. Check if early voting is available in your state.Request a mail-in/absentee ballot if needed. If you prefer to vote by mail or will be away on Election Day, request your ballot now. States have varying deadlines — some require requests 7 to 30 days before the election.Plan for time off work. Check your state's laws about employer-provided time off to vote. If needed, talk to your employer about your schedule.

The Week Before Election Day

Research your full ballot. Look up a sample ballot for your precinct at your county election website or ballotpedia.org/sample_ballot. Research every race — not just the top of the ticket. Read about candidates for state legislature, judges, school board, and any ballot measures.Write down your choices. Make a “cheat sheet” listing your choices for every race. You are allowed to bring notes into the voting booth in most states. This saves time and helps you feel confident.Plan your route. Know how to get to your polling place — drive, bus, walk, or ride-share. Consider traffic, parking, and weather. Many communities offer free rides to the polls on Election Day.Consider early voting. If your state offers early voting and it is still available, voting early can save you time and avoid Election Day crowds.

The Night Before

Gather your ID and documents. Place your photo ID (and any backup documents) by the door or in your bag so you do not forget them.Print or save your cheat sheet. Have your list of choices ready to take with you. Double-check it one final time.Set an alarm. If you plan to vote before work, set your alarm early enough to account for potential wait times.Confirm your polling place hours. Most polls are open from approximately 6:00 or 7:00 AM to 7:00 or 8:00 PM, but hours vary by state and county.

Election Day

Bring your ID, documents, and cheat sheet. Double-check that you have everything before you leave.Dress comfortably. You may be standing in line. Wear comfortable shoes and dress for the weather. Leave campaign gear at home — many states prohibit wearing political clothing or buttons inside or near the polling place.Bring water and a snack. Lines can be long. Bring a water bottle and a small snack. In some states, it is illegal for others to give you food or drink within a certain distance of the polling place, but you can always bring your own.Bring something to pass the time. A book, phone, or podcast can help if the wait is long. Just be mindful of your surroundings and keep the volume respectful.Check in, vote, and verify. Follow the process at your polling place: check in, receive your ballot, vote carefully, and confirm your ballot was submitted successfully.Save the hotline number. Store the Election Protection Hotline in your phone before you go: 866-OUR-VOTE (866-687-8683). Call if you encounter any problems.

Quick Packing List

Photo ID (driver's license, state ID, passport)

Voter registration confirmation

Your voting cheat sheet / notes

Backup proof of address (utility bill)

Water bottle and snack

Phone with hotline number saved

Need Help?

Election Protection Hotline: 866-OUR-VOTE (866-687-8683) — English
Spanish: 888-VE-Y-VOTA (888-839-8682)
Asian Languages: 888-API-VOTE (888-274-8683)
Arabic: 844-YALLA-US (844-925-5287)
Verify Registration: vote.org/verify
Find Your Polling Place: vote.org/polling-place-locator

calendar_month2 to 4 Weeks Before Election Day

event_upcomingThe Week Before Election Day

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how_to_voteElection Day