ON ELECTION DAY, NOVEMBER 5: WHERE AND WHEN TO VOTE
Polling places will be accessible from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. As long as you are in line by 7 p.m., you will still be allowed to cast your ballot. On Election Day, it is essential to vote at the polling station assigned to the precinct where you are registered. If you need to update your registration, same-day registration can be completed at your current polling location.
BE AWARE OF THE BALLOT CONTENT
The following positions and measures will be on the ballot:
– U.S. President and Vice President (4-year term)
– U.S. Senate (6-year term)
– U.S. Representatives (2-year term, one each for Districts 8, 10, and 11)
– Herndon Town Council and Mayor (only for Herndon town residents)
– Proposed Virginia Constitutional Amendment
– Fairfax County Bond Referendums (related to transportation and public safety)
CHECK YOUR REGISTRATION AND POLLING PLACE BEFORE YOU GO
Before heading to vote, ensure your voter registration and polling place details are up to date. Your voter information card indicates the name and address of your assigned polling location. You can also verify your registration and polling place through Virginia’s online portal or by contacting the Office of Elections at 703-222-0776, TTY 711.
WHAT TO BRING WHEN VOTING
When you arrive to vote, you will need to present an identification document. Acceptable forms of ID include a photo ID such as a Virginia driver’s license (even if expired), a government-issued ID, or a Virginia college ID. Alternatively, a recent utility bill, bank statement, government check, paycheck, or any government-issued document that includes your name and address will also be accepted.
SAME-DAY VOTER REGISTRATION OPTIONS
Election Day offers the opportunity for same-day voter registration, but this can only be done at your precinct polling location. Voters who register on that day will need to use a provisional ballot, which will be verified for eligibility after the election.
CURBSIDE AND ACCESSIBLE VOTING OPTIONS
Curbside voting is available for seniors aged 65 and older or individuals with physical disabilities, illnesses, or injuries that prevent them from entering the polling place. Upon arrival, look for the “Curbside Voting” sign in the accessible parking area and call the number listed to contact an election officer.
ADA-compliant ballot marking machines are provided in four languages to facilitate private voting for individuals with visual impairments or physical disabilities. Voters may also designate an assistant to help them mark their ballot by filling out a form available through election officers.
RETURNING YOUR MAIL-IN BALLOT
Mail-in ballots can be returned to a drop box at any polling location or to a 24-hour secure drop-off box at the Fairfax County Government Center until 7 p.m. on Election Day. If mailing your ballot, ensure it is postmarked by November 5 and received by the Office of Elections by noon on Friday, November 8. Remember to include the last four digits of your Social Security number and your birth year on the return envelope, which will be covered by a flap for privacy. Signing the envelope is also required, and you can track your mailed ballot online.
SAFEGUARDING YOUR VOTE
Voters can rest assured that their votes are well protected through comprehensive security measures. Each step of the voting process, from ballot security to counting and post-election audits, is prioritized by the county’s Office of Elections.
For additional information on vote protection measures, you can learn about:
– Secure Ballot and Drop Box systems
– Voting Machine Testing and Security
– Measures against Double Voting
– The accurate Counting and Verification of ballots
– Post-Election Canvassing and Audits
FOR MORE INFORMATION
If you have any questions, please contact the Office of Elections at 703-222-0776, TTY 711, during business hours (8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on weekdays).
This information is essential for voters to ensure they can participate in the democratic process with confidence, knowing that their rights are protected and every vote counts. It’s encouraging to see efforts that prioritize voter accessibility and security, fostering community engagement in the electoral process.