Here is important information about voting in Minnesota. Even if you don’t have a question right now, be sure to read through the information below. That way you’ll be prepared to answer questions from family, friends and coworkers.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Where do I vote?
You can look up the location of your polling place online at www.voteforchange.com
When are the polls open?
Polls will open on Tuesday November 4 at 7 a.m., and close at 8 p.m. Vote early if you can. If you are in line by 8 p.m., you have the right to register and vote.
What are the registration deadlines?
You can register at your polling place on election day, November 4.
Do I need to bring ID with me when I go vote?
You need ID to vote only if you have not registered before arriving at the polling precinct.
What ID do I need to register to vote on Election Day?
To register to vote at your polling place on Election Day, you must provide identification and proof of residence in one of three ways:
Option #1
One of the following with current address: A Minnesota driver’s license, Minnesota learner’s permit, state ID card, tribal photo ID with your signature, or notice of late registration sent to you.
Option #2
A photo ID ((may be expired) plus a current utility bill in your name. Photo IDs:
MN driver’s license or ID card
Tribal ID without an address
U.S. passport
U.S. military ID
MN student ID
Utility bills (due within 30 days of election): Gas, Electric, Solid waste, Water, Sewer, Phone (any kind: land line, cell, VOIP), TV (cable, satellite), Internet
Rent statement with itemized utilities
Current student fee statement
Option #3
If you don’t have any of these things, that’s ok! You just need someone registered to vote in your precinct who can swear that you live there.
Do I have the right to take time off from work to vote?
Yes. You have the right to take the morning off to vote on Election Day and still get paid.
What about voters with disabilities?
If you need assistance due to the inability to read English or have a physical inability to mark a ballot you may obtain the assistance of any individual you choose with the exception of the following: your employer, agent of your employer, officer or agent of your union, or a candidate for election. Alternatively, you may obtain the aid of two election judges who are members of different political parties. If you can’t easily leave your car, you can ask for the ballot to be brought out to you in your car. Upon your request, two election judges from different political parties will bring the voting materials out and assist you. Minnesota Statutes, Section 204C.1.
Can I vote early in person?
Absentee in Person voting has started in Minnesota and runs through Monday, November 3. Check with your county elections office for locations. There is no “early vote” in Minnesota, but if you are disabled or are going to be out of town on election day, you may vote absentee in person.
If you are disabled or are going to be out of town on election day, you may vote absentee in person until Monday, November 3, at your county elections office (and often at your city or town clerk’s office). Call our hotline at 877-MN-CHANGE (877-662-4264) or contact your county elections office for more information.
If you have already applied for an absentee ballot by mail, make sure you complete your ballot and mail it so it arrives by Tuesday, November 4 or hand in it in by Monday, November 3.
Other Questions?
Call the office of the Minnesota Secretary of State at 651-215-1440 or visit the Minnesota state voting information page for more information.
