Many states now require Voter ID at the polls in order to vote. Find out your state's ID requirements so you know what to bring with you to cast your ballot.
Voter ID
in West Virginia
Do all voters need ID?
Yes
ID required for first time voters?
Yes
ID required when voting absentee?
No
Acceptable ID Types for West Virginia
Voters in West Virginia must show ID to cast their vote at the polls. The following IDs are acceptable: Must be valid and unexpired. Non-photo ID
- Voter registration card
- Medicare card
- Social Security Card
- Birth Certificate
- West Virginia Hunting or Fishing License
- West Virginia SNAP ID card
- West Virginia TANF ID Card
- Bank or debit card
- Utility bill/bank statement within 6 months of the election
- Health Insurance card issued to voter
- West Virginia driver's license or other DMV issued West Virginia ID
- Driver's License issued by another state
- US passport
- US Military card
- US or West Virginia government employee ID card
- Student ID card
- Concealed carry permit
Voter ID Details
There are three exceptions to voter ID law in West Virginia. Exception 1: A voter does not have to show an ID to vote if the voter has an adult with them who has; known them for at least 6 months, shows a photo ID with their name and address, and signs an affidavit at the polling place confirming the voter's identity. Exception 2: If a poll worker knows the voter and has known the voter for at least six months no ID is required. Exception 3: Residents of licensed West Virginia state care facilities do not have to show ID to vote if all of the following are true: The voter is a resident of the care facility. The care facility is a polling place. The resident's polling place is located at the care facility. If a voter does not have ID and does not fall under any of the three exceptions, the voter may still vote a provisional ballot. The voter can prove their residence at the county clerk's office before the canvass begins which is usually five days after the election. If voting by mail the voter does not need to submit ID with their application or their ballot. If a first-time voter neglected to complete voter ID information on their voter registration form, they will need to submit ID with their application.
What happens when you go to vote without an ID
You can vote using a provisional ballot For your ballot to count, the signature on your provisional ballot envelope must match the signature in your voter registration record. You can also bring an acceptable ID to the polling place before it closes on Election Day. OR You can bring an acceptable ID to the municipal clerk by 4:00 pm on the Friday following the election
Trans and Non-Binary Voters
Click here for state specific information for updating your ID and voter registration.
More Questions? Get Chat Help
Visit our friends at VoteRiders for detailed state specific information. (Note: this link will take you to the VoteRiders chatbot on Facebook Messenger.)
