Voting, if you have never done it before, can be confusing. Here's an easy-to-follow, step-by-step guide for new voters. If you have any questions, contact the Election Commission or ask a poll worker on Election Day. Voting is a wonderful privilege and should be easy, so never hesitate to ask questions.
Step 1 - Register
Before you can vote, you must register. Click here for information on registering to vote. There are specific deadlines to register prior to each election, so be sure to register as soon as possible.
Step 2 - Vote At Your Polling Place
Douglas County is divided into precincts, and each precinct votes at a polling place. There are polling places located throughout the county. When you register to vote, you will receive a Voter Information Card which will tell you where you vote on Election Day and which political districts you live in. It is important that you vote at the polling place for your current home address to ensure you vote for the elected officials who represent your area.
On Election Day, the polls are open from 8:00 a.m. until 8:00 p.m. If you do not have your Voter Information Card, and you do not remember where to vote, you can call the Election Commission and we will be happy to assist you. You can also obtain this by using the Find Your Voting Information tool from a computer or smart phone.
You must vote at the correct polling place, because each precinct receives a different ballot.
Once you arrive at your polling place, voting is straightforward:
- Find The Sign-In Table - You will see a group of poll workers sitting at a table with several books in front of them. Approach them and tell them your name, present valid photo ID and tell them your address. They will find your information and have you sign into the book, confirming your information is correct and that you are voting today.
- Receive Your Ballot - The poll workers will find your ballot, based on where you live, and give it and a plastic privacy sleeve to you. Take both to a nearby voting booth.
- Vote Your Ballot - Make sure you follow the instructions on the ballot. If you have questions on how to mark your ballot properly, ask a poll worker. If you make a mistake and need a new ballot, write "VOID" across your ballot, fold it in half, and return it to the poll workers. They will give you a new ballot.
- Ask Questions - If you have any questions regarding your ballot, ask the poll workers to verify that you received the correct ballot before it is placed in the ballot box.
- Return Your Ballot - Place your voted ballot in the privacy sleeve and return it to the poll workers. State law requires a poll worker to place your ballot into the ballot box. Voters are not allowed to do this.
That's it. You've now voted and are ready for the next election. If you have any questions or problems, please feel free to contact us.