What You Need To Know For Voting in the 2014 Primaries in Pennsylvania

Please, no matter what else you are doing on May 20, if you are registered to vote in Pennsylvania, make time to get to your polling place. No matter who you vote for, vote like your future depends on it.

Who is Running for Office on May 20?

On May 20, you will be able to vote for primary candidates running for Governor, the State Legislature, and the US House of Representatives. There may also be special ballot questions and local elections. You can look at a sample ballot for your polling place at SmartVoter.org.

Will I Need Voter ID?

IN MOST CASES, YOU WILL NOT NEED IDENTIFICATION TO VOTE IN THE NOVEMBER ELECTIONS. The Voter ID law has been overturned and is no longer in effect. Only first-time voters, voters using a new polling place, and voters using absentee ballots will need to provide ID.

If you are a first-time voter or if you are voting at a new polling place, you should bring an approved form of identification. To see all approved forms, visit the PA Department of State voting website.

Did I Need to Register to Vote?

In Pennsylvania, voters must be registered 30 days prior to each election. If you are not sure if you are registered, you can confirm your registration status in the Pennsylvania voter registration database. If you are not registered to vote in the May 20 election, fill out a voter registration form now so you will be ready for the next one!

Where is My Polling Place?

The Pennsylvania Department of State offers an online guide to help find your polling place. In Pennsylvania, the polls are open from 7 AM to 8 PM.

What Should I Bring With Me When I Go To Vote?

If you are a first-time voter or if you are voting at a new polling place, you should bring an approved form of identification. To see all approved forms, visit the PA Department of State voting website.

All voters may bring a list of candidates on the ballot and who they plan to vote for and/or a list of key issues or specific proposals that are on the ballot.

If you have any issues on Election Day, please call 1-866-OUR-VOTE. Be sure to bring this number with you to the polls!

How Do I Use the Voting System at My Polling Place?

Different counties use different types of polling systems. Visit Votespa.com to see the type of voting system you will use and to watch a demonstration of how it works.

What Are My Rights As a Voter?

Under the Voting Rights Act of 1965, it is illegal for any state or local government to discriminate against racial, ethnic or language minority groups by denying them the right to vote.

In Pennsylvania, you may ask for assistance to vote as long as that assistance is provided by someone other than your employer (or their agent), your union head (or their agent) or the Judge of Elections. You may choose the person who will assist you - polling workers do not have the right to choose that person for you. The first time you need assistance, you will need to fill out an Assistance Form.

If your name is not in the books at the polling place, or if you have any problems voting, please work with the Election officials to make sure you are at the right place. If you are at the correct polling place, you can vote by provisional ballot. The Board of Elections will examine the provisional ballots within seven days and will count the votes if you were properly registered and voting at the correct polling place. If you are having problems and are at the correct polling place, do not leave without casting a provisional ballot.

If you have any problems at the polls, please call 1-866-OURVOTE.