How to vote: These answers will help you prepare for Election Day
Students can register to vote and vote early at stations set up in Madison city libraries. Poll workers, pictured in the background, are available to assist at each location.
October 18, 2016
Everyone remembers their “first.” Their first love, first beer, first car, first job. This November may be another one of your firsts if you choose to cast your vote in the upcoming presidential election. Here are the answers to questions some first-time voters might have in regards to “how to vote.”
Q: When is Election Day?
A: Tuesday, Nov. 8
Q: What hours are the polls open?
A: Polls are open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. To check when you can vote, visit https://myvote.wi.gov/en-US/FindMyPollingPlace
Q: What are the requirements to vote in Wisconsin?
A: Be at least 18 years old. Live at your current residence for at least 10 days. Register to vote.
Q: How can I find out if I already registered to vote?
A: You can enter your name and birthdate on https://myvote.wi.gov/en-us/viewmyvotingactivity to see if you are registered. You can also check with your municipal clerk.
Q: How do I register to vote?
A: First, you will need to have proof of residence, such as your Wisconsin Driver License or utility bill. Then do any of the following to register to vote:
- Register the day of the election at your polling location.
- Complete the registration form online before the election, and mail it to your municipal clerk. https://myvote.wi.gov/en-US/VoterRegistration
- Request a registration form from your municipal clerk before the election for you to complete and return.
Q: Where do I go to vote?
A: Enter your address on https://myvote.wi.gov/en-us/FindMyPollingPlace to learn where you can go to vote.
Q: What do I need to take with me when I go to vote?
A: You need a photo ID when voting at the polls or by absentee ballot. A Wisconsin driver license, a U.S. passport book and a student ID card are all examples of acceptable photo IDs. A complete list of acceptable photo IDs can be found on http://www.bringitwisconsin.com/
If using your student ID, it must include, your name, signature, photo, the date the card was issued, and the date the card expires. The issued date cannot be more than two years from the expiration date. You must also provide a document that shows you are enrolled in the school at the time of the election. Madison College student IDs can’t be used for voting because they lack an expiration date, but UW does offer a separate voter ID card for its students.
Q: What if I cannot vote on Election Day?
A: You can vote absentee. To do so, you must first register to vote. Then, you can request to vote absentee online at https://myvote.wi.gov/en-US/VoteAbsentee, or you can contact your municipal clerk for an absentee ballot.
If you need additional information, helpful websites include:
