Knowing What Day Is Voting Day is crucial for every eligible citizen. This guide provides comprehensive information about Election Day, including dates, times, acceptable forms of identification, and assistance available to voters. Understanding these details ensures you can exercise your right to vote with ease and confidence.
Election Dates and Times
Refer to the official election calendar for specific dates. Voting hours vary depending on the day of the week the election is held:
- Saturday Elections: Polls are open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.
- Tuesday Elections: Polls are open from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m.
It’s important to check the official election calendar or your local registrar of voters for the precise date and time of upcoming elections.
Acceptable Forms of Identification
When heading to the polls, remember to bring a valid form of identification. Acceptable forms of ID include:
- A driver’s license
- A Louisiana Special ID
- LA Wallet digital driver’s license
- A United States military identification card (containing your name and picture)
- Any generally recognized picture ID that contains your name and signature.
If you lack any of the above, you can still vote by signing a voter affidavit. You can obtain a free Louisiana Special ID from the Office of Motor Vehicles by presenting your voter information card. If you’ve misplaced your voter information card, contact your registrar of voters or print one from the Louisiana Voter Portal.
Voter Assistance
Several resources are available to assist voters:
- Voters with Disabilities: Visibly disabled voters and their assistants can proceed to the front of the line at their polling place.
- Assistance with Voting: Voters unable to read or vote without assistance due to a physical disability (including visual impairment) are entitled to help. Voters can also choose to use the audio ballot instead of receiving assistance.
- Documentation for Assistance: To receive assistance, voters must file a statement with the registrar or complete an affidavit on Election Day. Acceptable disability documentation includes letters from medical professionals or documentation showing eligibility for disability benefits.
If you encounter any accessibility issues on Election Day, report them to the ADA Compliance Officer.
You can receive assistance from anyone of your choosing with some exceptions:
- A candidate in the election cannot assist a voter
- An employer or the employer’s agent cannot assist an employee
- A union agent cannot assist a union member
- A commissioner-in-charge
- Staff for a state residential facility cannot assist residents of their facility in voting.
The person assisting the voter is required to complete a voter assistance form providing their name, address, and relationship to the voter.
If a paper ballot is used, the person helping must explain that the voter’s signature or mark certifies the truth of all statements in the certificate and that false statements are punishable by fine or imprisonment. The assistant must also sign the acknowledgment on the ballot envelope, verifying that they marked the ballot as the voter instructed.
If your assigned polling place is inaccessible, you can vote at the nearest accessible polling place with the same ballot or at the Registrar of Voters Office.
Where to Vote
Use the Louisiana Voter Portal to locate your polling place or contact your parish Registrar of Voters Office. Your voter information card, received by mail, also lists your polling place. Ensure you go to the correct polling place on what day is voting day.
Voting Systems
Louisiana utilizes the AVC Advantage voting system, an electronic system featuring a screen displaying the entire ballot. This system is wheelchair accessible, and every machine has an audio voting keypad for voters with disabilities.
The AVC Audio Voting Keypad is available for individuals who are visually impaired, physically disabled, struggle with reading, or are unable to read English. There are no requirements to use the audio keypad.
Your Vote Matters
Knowing what day is voting day, understanding the voting process, and utilizing available resources empowers you to participate fully in the democratic process. Ensure your voice is heard by voting in every election. Remember to check your registration status and local election information before each election.
