Free, private, no sign-up
Know exactly what to bring before election day
Pick your state and how you plan to vote. Get a tailored checklist of required documents, deadlines, and common pitfalls. Your data stays in your browser.
Build your checklist
Start by selecting your state and voting method below.
Used to show deadline warnings for absentee requests.
Your checklist
Select a state to begin
Select your state and voting method above to see your personalized checklist.
How this checklist works
1. Pick your state
Voter ID laws are not the same everywhere. Some states require a photo ID. Others accept a utility bill or bank statement. A few require no document at all for in-person voting. Selecting your state filters the list to match your local rules.
2. Choose your voting method
In-person voters usually need to show ID at the polling place. Early voters may need the same documents. Absentee voters often need to include a copy of their ID inside the return envelope. This checklist adjusts based on your choice.
3. Check items off
As you gather each document, tap the checkbox. Your progress is saved in your browser so you can close the page and come back later. Nothing is sent to a server.
4. Print or share
Use the print button to get a clean paper copy you can carry. The copy link encodes your state and method in the URL so you can send it to a friend or family member.
Common mistakes to avoid
Bringing an expired ID
Some states accept IDs that expired after a certain date (for example, within the last four years). Others do not. Check the note next to each item in your checklist. If your only photo ID is expired, look at the backup documents listed.
Wrong address on registration
If you moved and did not update your registration, you may be asked for proof of your current address. Bring a recent piece of mail, lease, or bank statement with your name and new address.
Missing the absentee request deadline
Absentee ballot requests often have a deadline one to two weeks before election day. If you enter an election date above, this page will warn you when the request window is closing.
Forgetting a witness or notary
A few states require your absentee ballot envelope to be signed by a witness or notarized. The checklist will note this if it applies to your state.
Using the wrong polling place
Most states assign you a specific polling location. Going to the wrong one can mean a long drive or a provisional ballot. Look up your assigned location on your state election website and write it in the field above.
Not bringing a backup
Even in states with strict ID laws, there is usually a backup option like a provisional ballot or a signed affidavit. Knowing your backup plan reduces stress if something goes wrong.
Questions people ask
What if my state is not in the list?
Pick the closest match or use the general checklist. Then visit your state or local election office website for the exact requirements. We add states regularly based on user feedback.
Can I use a student ID?
In some states, yes. In others, only government-issued photo IDs are accepted. Your checklist will note whether student IDs are valid in your state.
What if I lost my ID?
Contact your local DMV or vital records office for a replacement as soon as possible. Many states also allow a signed affidavit at the polling place if you can prove your identity another way.
Does this save my data?
Your checklist progress is saved in your browser using localStorage. No data is sent to any server. If you clear your browser data, your progress will be lost.
Is this affiliated with any political party or candidate?
No. This is a nonpartisan civic resource. It does not endorse any party, candidate, or position.
Quick reference table
This table shows a snapshot of accepted ID types for in-person voting. Rules change. Always verify with your state election office.
| State | Photo ID required | Non-photo accepted | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Georgia | Yes | Limited | Free state ID available |
| Indiana | Yes | No | Must be issued by state or US government |
| Kansas | Yes | Limited | Expired ID accepted if voter is 65+ |
| Mississippi | Yes | No | Free voter ID card available |
| Tennessee | Yes | No | Student IDs not accepted |
| Wisconsin | Yes | Limited | Student ID must have issue date and expiration |
| Arizona | Yes (or 2 non-photo) | Yes | Utility bill, bank statement, vehicle registration |
| Ohio | Yes (or 1 non-photo) | Yes | Military ID accepted without address |
| Florida | Yes | With signature affidavit | Student ID, debit/credit card with photo |
| Colorado | Yes (or alternative) | Yes | Utility bill, bank statement, paycheck |
| New York | No (first-time voters may need ID) | N/A | First-time voters who registered by mail may need ID |
| California | No (first-time voters may need ID) | N/A | First-time mail registrants may need to show ID or document |
| Oregon | No (vote by mail) | N/A | All voters receive ballots by mail; ID not required to return |
| Washington | No (vote by mail) | N/A | Signature on return envelope is verified |
| Minnesota | No | N/A | Registered voters do not need ID; same-day registrants do |