How to Find a Polling Station

It is your American right to be able to be a part of the election process, so if you are still unsure about where your local polling station is, there are a few simple ways to find out.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Find a Polling Station

1. Visit online resources such as those recommended in resources below. Google Maps, for example, offers an interactive Election Day-polling station map. Just enter your address as you normally would on Google Maps; instead of driving directions, you'll see your voting location, special instructions, and important information regarding deadlines and local regulations.

2. Check your mail thoroughly. Many times, postcards are sent out to registered voters that inform them where and when to vote at their polling station. These postcards are small, and can be unknowingly thrown out, so be careful.

3. Review your voter registration card. The location of your polling station should be typed on the bottom of the card.

4. Contact your county clerk's office, your Secretary of State office, or your Board of Elections. Or look them up online. These three sources will be able to help you find your polling station based on your current address.

5. Ask at the library or a local school. Many times, polling stations are at libraries and at local schools. By contacting these locations, you may actually find your polling station or be directed to another location.

6. Read the newspaper. Some papers publish lists of local polling stations with maps. Call the polling station before voting to confirm that it is your location.

7. Call other polling stations. If you know where a polling station is or has been in the past, try asking the officials there if they can direct you to your local station. Many times, the officials will have an area map of polling stations to direct voters who try to vote at the wrong location.

Tips & Warnings

• Be prepared to show ID at a polling station. This is done to be sure that you are at the correct location.
• You must have previously registered to vote in order to vote on Election Day.

Resources

• Google Polling Station Maps
• Vote 411: Polling Place Finder
• Find your voting info: When to vote, where, and what to bring
• Nonpartisan Election Information from the League of Women Votes
• Know Your Voter Rights

[iamageniuster]

on 11/9/2008 Great article. I appreciate it.