Election Day


When voting and submitting my ballot, how many chances do I have to make a mistake?

As a registered voter in the District of Columbia, you have the right to receive a new ballot if you make a mistake before casting your ballot.


What is a "special ballot status?"

If a voter's name does not appear on the voter registration list or his/her right to vote may be in question he/she can vote a Special Ballot. Once the Board has determines that he or she is a registered voter and eligible to vote in this election, his/her vote will be counted.


What's the difference between a "Provisional Ballot" and a "Special Ballot?"

A provisional ballot and a special ballot are one in the same.


When is it warranted that I vote using a Special Ballot?

You must vote using a Special Ballot if:

  • You have MOVED and are updating your address information.
  • If your NAME is not on the voter registration list but you believe you are a registered voter and eligible to vote in this election and in this polling place.
  • You applied to vote absentee but did not receive your absentee ballot in the mail.
  • Your right to vote has been challenged by the Precinct Captain, by a registered voter, or by the D.C. Board of Elections and Ethics for administrative reasons.
  • You are physically unable to vote at your assigned precinct because of age or disability.
  • You believe the voter registration list is incorrect.
  • You are a first-time voter who registered by mail but you did not bring the required documents with you.


How do I know which method of voting is right for me?

If you wish to view instructions on how to use the various forms of voting equipment, feel free to visit here. There you will find detailed instructions on each method of voting allowing you to decide which method suits you most.


Will I need to present my ID prior to voting on Election Day?

D.C. election law currently does not require voters to present identification except for certain first-time voters, but some polling places require ID to enter the facility. It is, therefore, encouraged to take some form of identification with you to the polling place.

Acceptable forms of ID include the following:

  • valid photo identification
  • copy of a current utility bill
  • bank statement
  • government check
  • paycheck
  • government document that shows your name and address


What do I do if I make a mistake on my paper ballot and I've already submitted it to the machine?

If an error is made, the scanner should reject your ballot and you may take your ballot back to the ballot clerk and receive a new ballot.

Nevertheless, it is strongly advised that you carefully review your paper ballot before submitting it because if the scanner does not detect your error, such as voting for more candidates than the number allowed in a contest, your vote will not be counted for that contest.


DC Board of Elections and Ethics
441 4th Street, NW, Suite 250 North
Washington, DC 20001
Tel: (202) 727-2525 | TTY: (202) 639-8916 | Tollfree: 1-866-DC-VOTES
Don't see your Questions listed? Ask the Director now! Election Year 2008 Election Results 2008 - General Find your Polling Place Election Day Workers Interactive Maps
  • General Election: 11/2/2010
  • Primary Election: 9/14/2010