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 Virginia.
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 early in your state before Election Day. Early voting begins on 05/06/2023 and ends on 06/17/2023
Early voting will be available at your local elections office and other locally designated locations.
In Virginia, voting by mail is a two step process: Step 1: Request your ballot NOW. The deadline for your application to be received is June 9th. Step 2: Return your ballot ASAP.
You don’t need an excuse to request an absentee ballot. You can vote by mail for any reason.
After you complete your ballot, sign the "Statement of Absentee Voter" on envelope B.
Grab a friend! After you complete your ballot, you must sign the absentee ballot return envelope in the presence of an adult witness. They must sign, too.
Virginia voters must show valid photo ID or proof of residence when voting in person. Info here on what qualifies. You do not need to submit a copy of your photo ID when voting by mail in a state election. In federal elections, first time mail voters do have to submit a copy of their ID.
Your postage is prepaid.
Click here to track your ballot. Your state offers electronic, barcode ballot tracking services so you can make sure your ballot gets counted.
If you decide to vote in person rather than use your absentee ballot, take the following steps:
Unsused ballot: First, go to your local registrar and return your ballot. Then, go to your polling place and vote in person on Election Day.
Lost ballot: You must go to your local registrar and sign a statement, at which point you are entitled to a provisional ballot. This is better than not voting, but may not be counted.
Made a mistake: If you made a mistake on your ballot, you may return it to your local registrar or to your polling place on Election Day. Then, vote in person.
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.