How to Vote In The US: As Election Day approaches, North Carolina voters are gearing up to make their voices heard. Whether you plan to vote in person, early, or by mail, it’s essential to know the steps to ensure your vote counts. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to vote in North Carolina.
Voting in Person on Election Day
To vote in person, you can find your polling place by visiting the North Carolina State Board of Elections website. Simply head to this link to look up your designated voting location. Polling places will be open on Election Day, providing you the opportunity to cast your ballot.
Early Voting in North Carolina
North Carolina also offers early voting, which can be a convenient option for those who may not be able to vote on Election Day. Early voting locations may differ from your designated polling place, so it’s important to check the early voting site to find a location near you. For more details on early voting and locations, visit this page.
What to Bring When Voting
When you head to the polls, remember to bring a valid photo ID. Acceptable forms include:
- North Carolina driver’s license
- North Carolina state ID
- U.S. passport or passport card
- North Carolina voter photo identification card
- College or university student ID approved by the State Board of Elections
- Employee ID card issued by a state or local government entity, including charter schools
- A driver’s license or state ID from another state (if your voter registration is within 90 days of the election)
Certain IDs, such as tribal enrollment cards and military IDs, do not have expiration requirements. Additionally, voters age 65 and older may use any expired ID as long as it was valid on their 65th birthday.
Provisional Ballots for Voters Without ID
If you do not have a photo ID on Election Day, you can still vote using a provisional ballot. This allows you to cast your vote while providing instructions on how to ensure it is counted later.
Checking Your Ballot Status
After voting, you can verify the status of your ballot on the North Carolina State Board of Elections website. This step ensures that your vote has been received and counted properly.
Additional Support for Hurricane Helene Survivors
If you lost your photo ID due to Hurricane Helene, you can fill out a Photo ID Exception Form at your voting site or with your absentee ballot. Free IDs are available from your county board of elections or NCDMV offices.
For complete information on voting in North Carolina, including updates for voters affected by Hurricane Helene, visit the North Carolina State Board of Elections website.
By staying informed and prepared, you can ensure that your voice is heard this election season. Whether voting early or on Election Day, every vote matters!
