Voting FAQ

How do I register to vote?

You can register to vote online, by mail, or in person. Visit your state's election website or use the federal registration form at vote.gov.

• Online: Visit vote.gov for quick online registration
• By Mail: Download and mail the National Mail Voter Registration Form
• In Person: Register at your local DMV, election office, or registration drive

What are the eligibility requirements?

• U.S. citizen
• Meet your state's residency requirements
• 18 years old by Election Day (some states allow pre-registration at 16-17)

What's the registration deadline?

Registration deadlines vary by state, typically 15-30 days before Election Day. Some states offer same-day registration. Check your state's specific deadline at vote.gov.

How do I check my registration status?

Visit vote.gov and select your state to check your registration status online. You can verify your registration is active and see your polling location.

When is Election Day 2028?

Tuesday, November 7, 2028

Polling locations are typically open from 6 AM or 7 AM to 7 PM or 8 PM, but hours vary by state.

Can I vote early?

Yes! Most states offer early voting, which typically begins 2-4 weeks before Election Day. Early voting locations and hours vary by state and county. Check with your local election office for specific dates and locations.

What are the primary election dates?

Democratic primary elections will be held throughout early 2028, starting with Iowa and New Hampshire. Dates vary by state. Stay tuned for the complete primary calendar.

Where is my polling place?

Find your polling location by:

• Visiting vote.gov and entering your address
• Checking your voter registration card
• Contacting your local election office

What should I bring to the polls?

• Valid photo ID (requirements vary by state - see ID Requirements section)
• Your voter registration card (helpful but usually not required)
• Sample ballot or notes on your choices

What if there's a long line?

If you're in line when the polls close, stay in line! You have the right to vote if you were in line before closing time. Bring water, snacks, and something to read.

Do I need an ID to vote?

ID requirements vary by state:

• Strict Photo ID states: Require government-issued photo ID
• Non-strict Photo ID states: Request photo ID but offer alternatives
• Non-Photo ID states: Accept documents like utility bills or bank statements
• No ID required: Some states don't require ID at all

What types of ID are accepted?

Commonly accepted IDs include:

• Driver's license
• State-issued ID card
• Passport or passport card
• Military ID
• Tribal ID
• Student ID (in some states)

Check your state's specific requirements at vote.gov.

What if I don't have an ID?

If you don't have an ID, contact your local election office. Many states provide free voter ID cards. Some states allow you to sign an affidavit or cast a provisional ballot.

Can I vote by mail?

Yes! All states allow some form of mail voting. Some states mail ballots automatically to all registered voters, while others require you to request an absentee ballot.

How do I request an absentee ballot?

To request an absentee ballot:

• Visit your state election website
• Fill out an absentee ballot request form
• Submit the form by your state's deadline (typically 1-2 weeks before Election Day)
• Wait for your ballot to arrive by mail

When should I mail my ballot back?

Mail your ballot as early as possible! The USPS recommends mailing ballots at least 1 week before Election Day. Your ballot must be postmarked by Election Day (in most states) or received by Election Day (in some states).

Pro tip: Many states offer ballot drop boxes where you can drop off your ballot in person for free. This is often faster and more secure than mailing.

Can I track my ballot?

Many states offer ballot tracking so you can confirm your ballot was received and counted. Check your state election website to see if this service is available.

What if I moved recently?

Update your voter registration with your new address as soon as possible. If you moved within the same county, you may be able to update your registration at your polling place on Election Day in some states.

Can I vote if I have a felony conviction?

Voting rights for people with felony convictions vary by state. Many states restore voting rights after completion of sentence, parole, or probation. Check your state's specific rules at vote.gov.

What if I encounter problems at my polling place?

If you experience any issues:

• Ask to speak with a poll supervisor
• Request a provisional ballot
• Call the Election Protection Hotline: 1-866-OUR-VOTE (1-866-687-8683)
• Document everything and report issues to local election officials

Where can I get more information?

For official information about voting in your state, visit:

• vote.gov - Official U.S. government voting resource
• Your state election website - State-specific information and deadlines
• Your local county election office - Local polling locations and support