I've seen three people mention that they couldn't find their voter registration cards.
If you are anywhere near your county clerk's office, they can print a new one in about thirty seconds. Go there with your I.D. and ask them for a new one. My roommate and I had to do that a couple of weeks ago, and they were more than happy to help us.
Check your state government's website to be sure. They should have a Voter Information section, which might include your voting district and help with lost cards. I just checked a few random states, and they all have this information.
Find a form of identification to bring to the polls. Unless you are a first-time voter who registered by mail without sending identification, you have the right to vote without providing ID. However, to avoid hassles just bring ID anyway. A government-issued ID is best (such as a driver's license), but you can also bring a utility bill, paycheck stub, phone bill, or similar papers with your name on them. If your ID does not have a signature, bring two forms of identification.
Even if you are not on the voter list, federal law gives you the right to a "provisional ballot." Insist on one and vote. A regular ballot is preferable, so you should do whatever you can to get a regular ballot first, like going home and getting a second form of identification or going to the polling place where you are definitely on the voter list. But rather than be turned away, demand a provisional ballot.
You have the right to vote if you are in line when the polls close. Stay in line until you vote.
_Sarah_
Kalamazoo, MI
January 2003
NOV 01, 2004 08:17 PM