Warning: Mail-in voting is a convenient and safe way to vote, but your ballot might not count if it's submitted late or with errors. So follow the directions below on how to vote early or absentee and make your vote count in South Dakota.
Note - this information below may change for your state due to ongoing litigation and legislation. This page will be updated within 24 hours of any change.
You can vote in-person absentee in your state.
To vote in person with an absentee ballot, request, fill out, and return your ballot while at your county auditor's office.
Voting by mail is a two step process in South Dakota. Step 1: Request your ballot NOW. The deadline for your application to be received is June 5th at 5:00 p.m. - but you must request well before that to allow for time to mail.
You don’t need an excuse to request an absentee ballot. You can vote by mail for any reason.
After you complete your ballot, be sure to sign the reverse side of your absentee ballot return envelope. Be sure that your signature matches your signature on file with the state! If you registered online or at the DMV, check the signature on your license. If the signature does not match, your ballot could be tossed and will not count.
South Dakota voters must show valid photo ID when voting in person. Info here on what qualifies. When you apply to vote by mail, you must submit a copy of your photo ID or a notarized oath with your request. You do not need to send ID in with ballot, but signature comparison will be used to approve the ballot.
You must add a stamp when mailing in your ballot.
Any designated person can drop off a ballot for you.
Look Up Ballot Drop Off LocationsClick here to track your ballot. Your state offers electronic, barcode ballot tracking services so you can make sure your ballot gets counted. Your state does not offer voters a chance to address challenges to their ballot. Your ballot will not count if it is late, or you do not follow directions.
If you would like to vote in person, go to your polling site and vote on Election Day. The poll workers will verify that your absentee ballot was never submitted.
The national, nonpartisan Election Protection coalition was formed to ensure that all voters have an equal opportunity to participate in the political process. Made up of more than 100 local, state and national partners, Election Protection works year-round to advance and defend the right to vote.
Call 866-OUR-VOTE if you need assistance.
Find your polling place, ID laws, and more about voting for the first time below.