Election Rights, Rules, and Regulations

When do I vote?

Polling places are open from 6:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m on Tuesday, November 6, 2018. You have the right to vote if you are in line by 7 p.m. when the polls close. (Va. Code §24.2-603)

Where do I vote?

You can find your polling place online at www.elections.virginia.gov or look on your most recently issued voter registration card.

What if I don’t know how to use the voting equipment?

Just ask a poll worker for help, that’s why they’re there. Poll workers are required to assist you at any time you ask. (Va. Code §24.2-647)

What if I’m registered but a poll worker says I’m not?

Ask the poll worker to contact the local registrar. If the registrar cannot find your name, make sure to ask for a provisional ballot. You have the right to cast a provisional ballot even if your name is not on the voter list. (Va. Code §24.2-652, -653)

What if someone challenges my eligibility to vote?

Ask for the Affirmation of Eligibility form. (Va. Code §24.2-651, -651.1)

What should I do if I make a mistake on my ballot?

Don’t cast it and request a replacement ballot immediately. You have the right to as many replacement ballots as you need. (Va. Code §24.2-645).

What if the voting machine malfunctions?

Let a poll worker know and they will direct you to a different machine or give you a paper ballot. (Va. Code §24.2-642, §24.2-646.1)

What if I need help in the voting booth because of a disability?

You have the right to have a poll worker, friend, or relative help you in the voting booth if you sign a Request for Assistance form (Va. Code §24.2-649). If you think it will be difficult to vote inside the polling place, you have the right to vote curbside. You can send someone into the polling place to request curbside voting on your behalf. (Va. Code §24.2-649 (A))

What if I need language assistance?

You have the right to bring someone who can translate the ballot. (Va. Code §24.2-649 (C))

How do I make a complaint?

Ask for an officer of election at your polling place if you need to register any compliant or file a complaint online at www.elections.virginia.gov. Candidates, political parties, and nonprofit organizations may also have poll watchers at your polling place to assist you. If anyone ask you who you voted for, call the Virginia Dept. of Elections (800-552-9745) or the Election Day hotline at the ACLU of Virginia (804-644-8080).

What are the acceptable forms of IDs to vote:

You must show an approved photo ID to vote. This includes a Valid Virginia DMV-Issued Photo ID*; Valid U.S. Passport*; Employee Photo ID; Valid Student Photo ID from Virginia College/University*; Military Photo ID; Any other Photo ID issued by the U.S., Virginia, or a political or local subdivision in Virginia; Virginia Voter Photo ID.  *Valid: Photo ID is NOT expired for more than 12 months.

What if I Don’t Have an ID?

You can get a free voter photo ID at any general registrar’s office if you are a registered voter. If you are not registered, you will need to register and sign up for the ID by completing the Virginia Voter Photo Identification Card Application and have your picture taken.

What if I forget my photo ID?

Voters without identification can cast an “ID-only” provisional ballot then submit a copy of your ID to your local electoral board no later than noon on Monday, November 13 by fax, e-mail, mail, or in-person.

What if my gender-marker doesn’t match my gender presentation?

The ACLU offers a Transgender Voter Guide to learn more about your rights.

Restoration of Voting Rights:

If you have lost your right to vote due to a felony conviction, in order to vote on Nov. 6, you must have your voting rights restored and then register to vote. Those with felony convictions from Virginia must (a) receive a letter from the Governor individually restoring their voting rights, then (b) register to vote. To check if your civil rights have been restored go to:

https://solutions.virginia.gov/RestorationOfRights/search or call 804-692-0104.

Election Day Hotlines:

Call ACLU-VA: 804-644-8080 or 866-OUR-VOTE.

CategoriesGeneral, News
mm

Grid is a solutions-oriented news platform that celebrates makers, storytellers, and community builders. Our goal is to share stories about people inspired by a purpose beyond themselves. We are interested in hard work, humility, authenticity, and stewardship. And most of all, people who roll up their sleeves and push Richmond forward.