How to Vote

Remember: Those who don't vote have no right to complain.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Roll Call Online
• Newspaper Subscriptions
• Postage Stamps
• Voter Registration Forms
• Pens And Pencils
• Computers

1. Visit your state's official Web site (www.state.xx.us, where xx is your state's postal abbreviation) or contact your local city hall for information about registering to vote.
2. Pay attention to the news media, campaign materials and voting guides to educate yourself about the issues and the candidates as Election Day approaches.
3. Look on your voter registration card to find the address and hours of operation of your polling place.
4. Fill out a sample ballot to use as a reference at your polling place.
5. Visit your polling place during polling hours on Election Day.
6. Follow officials' directions about how to cast your vote properly. Voting systems vary from county to county.

Tips & Warnings

• Many jurisdictions have laws on the books stating that private employers must allow their employees time off for voting purposes. Check with your state's official Web site for more information.
• If you know that you will not be in town on Election Day, you can vote using an absentee ballot. Contact your local county officials for details.
• If you recently moved and forgot to register in your new district, it is possible that you are still registered and able to vote in your previous district.
• In many states, you have the option of registering to vote when you apply for a driver's license or other state services. Also, public libraries, post offices and public schools often have the forms needed to register to vote.
• You must be at least 18 years old and a U.S. citizen to vote.