5 Things You Need to Bring to the Polls in Ohio

Heading to the polls in Ohio can be straightforward if you know what to bring with you.

To cast your ballot successfully, you need to have a valid form of identification.

Acceptable IDs include a driver’s license, state ID, or a passport.

If you are bringing a utility bill, bank statement, or other government document, ensure it shows your current address and is dated within the last 12 months.

Updating your voter registration is crucial.

Ohio allows you to update or complete your registration up until Oct. 7, and it’s recommended to do so online for convenience.

This can save you time and ensure you’re on the voter list when you arrive at your polling location.

1. Acceptable Forms of ID

Each of these IDs must have a photograph, a current expiration date, and your name as it appears on the voter registration records.

Some acceptable IDs include:

• Driver’s License: Ohio or other state-issued, valid.
• State ID Card: From Ohio or other states, current.
• US Passport: Must be valid and unexpired.
• Military ID: Includes US military, OH National Guard, and Department of Veterans Affairs cards.

These IDs ensure you can verify your identity at the polls without any issues. Always verify the expiration date and make sure it has not lapsed.

2. Address Verification Documents

For voters who have recently moved or changed their name, it is crucial to provide documents that confirm your current address. These documents must include your name and address, aligning with your current voter registration.

Here are acceptable options:

• Utility Bill: Must be recent and show your current address.
• Bank Statement: This should be current and reflect your address.
• Paycheck: Provided it includes your name and address.
• Government Check: Includes any government-issued checks like Social Security.

Ensuring these documents are accurate and up-to-date will help you avoid complications at the polling place. Confirm your documents before heading to vote to ensure they meet Ohio’s standards.

3. Language Support Services

If English is not your first language, polling places provide ballot translations and assistance in multiple languages.

Election materials, including voter guides and sample ballots, may be available in languages other than English. Check with your local county board of elections to confirm which languages are supported in your area.

You may also bring a person of your choice to assist with language translation while you vote. This individual can help interpret voting instructions and fill out the ballot, ensuring that your choices are accurately recorded.

4. Requesting an Absentee Ballot

To request an absentee ballot in Ohio, you need to submit an application. This application can be downloaded and printed from the Ohio Secretary of State’s website.

Complete the form with accurate information and mail it to your county board of elections. The application must be received seven days before the election.

Once you receive the absentee ballot, fill it out carefully. Return the completed ballot either by mailing it back (it must be postmarked by the day before Election Day) or delivering it in person by 7:30 p.m. on Election Day.

Missing the deadline or inaccurate information can render your ballot invalid, so pay close attention to the instructions provided.

5. COVID-19 – Personal Protective Equipment

Poll workers and voters should both wear masks at all times within the polling station. Bring a mask with you, but polling stations often have extras if you forget.

Hand sanitizers will be available at various locations, including the entrance and exit. Frequent hand hygiene is vital, especially after touching surfaces. Gloves may also be provided, but they are not a substitute for hand hygiene.

Portable barriers such as plexiglass shields may separate voters from poll workers. This helps reduce close contact but doesn’t eliminate the need for masks. Poll workers should also disinfect frequently touched surfaces like voting machines and booths between uses.

Eligibility Requirements for Voting in Ohio

To vote in Ohio, you must meet several specific eligibility criteria:

• You must be a U.S. citizen.
• You must be at least 18 years old on or before the day of the next general election. If you turn 18 on or before the general election, you may participate in the primary election to nominate candidates, but you cannot vote on issues or party central committees until your 18th birthday.
• You must have been a resident of Ohio for at least 30 days immediately before the election day.

Additionally, you must not be incarcerated for a felony conviction. This means if you are currently serving a sentence for a felony, you are ineligible to vote.

The voting schedule for 2024 is critical to note, as it outlines key dates for registration and early voting

However, once you are released, your right to vote is restored. This is different from some other states where felony convictions can permanently disenfranchise an individual.

Another requirement is that you must not have been declared incompetent for voting purposes by a probate court. If a court has specifically declared you incompetent to vote, you cannot legally participate in elections.

Finally, you must not be disenfranchised for violations of the election laws. This includes any legal restrictions placed upon you specifically related to past voting or election offenses.

Confirming Your Polling Location

It’s essential to verify your polling location before heading out to vote. Locations can sometimes change due to various factors.

Double-check by using the Vote.org Polling Place Locator to confirm your site’s address.

This additional step can save you time and ensure there are no surprises on Election Day. Make sure to check a few days beforehand to avoid last-minute issues.