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Florida Election Day Voter Rights

Here are answers to common questions about voting procedures in Florida.

What times are the polls open on election day?

Polls are open from 7 a.m. until 7 p.m. on election day. Any voter who is standing in line at 7 p.m. is still eligible to cast a vote.

What kind of identification do I need to bring to the polls?

When you go to the polling place to vote, you will be asked to provide a current and valid picture identification with a signature. Approved forms of picture identification are: Florida driver’s license; Florida identification card issued by the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles; U.S. passport; debit or credit card; military identification; student identification; retirement center identification; neighborhood association identification; and public assistance identification. (Section 101.043, F.S.) If the picture identification does not contain a signature, you will be asked to provide an additional identification with your signature.

Can I still vote if I do not bring identification?

Yes. You should not be turned away from the polls because you do not bring identification. If you do not have the proper identification, you will be allowed to vote a provisional ballot.

What happens if someone challenges my eligibility to vote at the polls?

If you are challenged on the basis that your legal residential address is not within the precinct, you will still have an opportunity to vote.

If you are challenged on any other grounds or your eligibility is questioned, you will be allowed to vote a provisional ballot.

What else do I have to do if I vote a provisional ballot?

You will be provided a written notice of your rights as a provisional ballot voter. (Section 101.048, F.S.) You have the right to present further evidence of your eligibility if you want up to 2 days after the election. Depending on the reason why you voted a provisional ballot, there may no further need in order for your provisional ballot to count.

I have requested an absentee ballot and now I have changed my mind and want to vote at the polls. May I?

Yes. If you received your absentee ballot, you should return it, whether voted or not, to the poll workers on Election Day. Your absentee ballot will be voided and you will be allowed to vote a regular ballot at the polls.

Can I vote if I am a lawful permanent resident?

No. Only U.S. citizens can register or vote in Florida.

Can I vote if I have dual citizenship?

Yes as long as you have U.S. citizenship and are otherwise properly registered, you can vote.

Read more at the Florida Division of Elections.

Click on the link to identify your Election Supervisor by Florida County.

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