Your First Time Voting

eventBefore Election Day

1. Check Your Eligibility

To vote in U.S. elections, you must meet all of the following requirements:

• Be a U.S. citizen (by birth or naturalization)
• Be 18 years old on or before Election Day (some states allow 17-year-olds to vote in primaries if they will be 18 by the general election)
• Meet your state's residency requirements
• Not be currently serving a sentence for a felony conviction (rules vary by state — many states restore voting rights after sentence completion)

2. Register to Vote

You must be registered before you can vote. Here is how:

• Online: Visit vote.gov to register online in most states
• By mail: Download and mail the National Voter Registration Form
• In person: Visit your local election office, DMV, or other designated registration sites
• Deadline: Most states require registration 15 to 30 days before Election Day. Some states offer same-day registration — check your state's rules

3. Find Your Polling Place

Your polling place is determined by your registered address. Look it up at your state or county election website, or visit vote.org/polling-place-locator. Your polling place may change between elections, so always confirm before Election Day. Note the address, hours, and any parking or transit information.

4. Learn What Is on Your Ballot

Your ballot will include more than just the presidential race. Expect to see candidates for U.S. Congress, state legislature, governor, local offices (mayor, city council, school board), judges, and ballot measures (proposed laws or constitutional amendments). Research candidates and issues before you go — see our “How to Research Candidates” guide for tips.

backpackWhat to Bring

Requirements vary by state. Bring the following to be prepared:

• Photo ID — Required in many states. Accepted forms typically include a driver's license, state ID, passport, or military ID. Check your state's specific ID requirements.
• Voter registration confirmation — Not always required, but useful if there are questions about your registration.
• Your notes — You are allowed to bring notes, a sample ballot, or a list of your choices into the voting booth in most states. This helps you vote efficiently, especially for down-ballot races.
• Proof of address — Some states accept a utility bill, bank statement, or government document with your name and address if you do not have a photo ID.

location_onAt the Polling Place

Step 1: Check In

When you arrive, go to the check-in table. A poll worker will look up your name in the voter rolls and may ask for identification. You will sign the poll book or a signature pad. If your name is not found, do not panic — ask the poll worker for help and request a provisional ballot if needed.

Step 2: Get Your Ballot

After checking in, you will receive your ballot. This might be a paper ballot, a ballot card for an electronic machine, or directions to a touch-screen voting machine. If you are unsure how to use the equipment, ask a poll worker — they are there to help.

Step 3: Mark Your Ballot

Enter the voting booth, which provides privacy. Take your time and refer to your notes. Fill in the bubbles completely, connect the arrows, or press the buttons for your chosen candidates. You do not have to vote in every race — it is perfectly fine to leave a race blank if you are unsure. Review your choices carefully before submitting.

Step 4: Cast Your Ballot

Feed your paper ballot into the scanner, press the “Cast Ballot” button on a touch screen, or hand your completed ballot to a poll worker as directed. Make sure you see a confirmation that your ballot has been accepted. Collect your “I Voted” sticker if offered — you earned it.

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