Voting FAQ

ANSWERING COMMON QUESTIONS
ABOUT VOTING IN MINNESOTA

For information in other languages, including Somali, Oromo and Spanish, click here.

Can you vote in Minnesota?

To vote in Minnesota you must be:

  • A U.S. citizen
  • At least 18 years old on Election Day (November 7th)
  •  A resident of Minnesota for at least 20 days
  • Not currently incarcerated with a felony 

WHO CANNOT VOTE IN MINNESOTA?

  •  Citizens under the age of 18 cannot vote.
  • You can vote while under guardianship unless a judge specifically has revoked your right to vote.
  • You cannot vote if a court has ruled that you are legally incompetent.

CAN YOU VOTE IF YOU HAVE A CRIMINAL RECORD?

Your criminal record does not affect your right to vote in Minnesota unless you are currently incarcerated with a felony. You can vote if you are on probation or parole. Visit the ACLU's guide or mnvotes.org for more information.

What is ranked choice voting?

Minneapolis uses a system known as “ranked choice voting.” This means that you rank up to three candidates in order of preference, from #1 (your top choice) on down to #3. If a candidate receives a majority of first choice votes, they win the election outright. If not, lower–ranking candidates are eliminated and votes are redistributed to the voter’s second choice (and third choice, if needed).

More information on ranked-choice voting is available at the city’s elections website.

What is the voter registration process?

How do you register?

In Minnesota you can register to vote either online or on paper. You can register to vote before the election or at your polling place on Election Day. 

How do you register online?

You will need your Minnesota driver’s license or Minnesota identification card number, or the last four numbers of your Social Security number.

You can register to vote online by going here and entering your information clearly and accurately.

How do you register on paper?

Download the forms from here and print forms in English and other languages. Use these forms to register yourself or to register others in a voter registration drive.

How do you register on Election Day?

You can register or update your registration when you vote either at your polling place on Election Day or at an early voting location. You will need proof of residence to register to vote. 

Here is a comprehensive list of acceptable ID forms:

1. ID with current name and address

To register at your polling place on Election Day, bring one of the proofs of residence documents listed below.

  • Valid Minnesota driver’s license, learner’s permit or ID; or a receipt for any of these.
  • Tribal ID with name, address, photo and signature.

2. Photo ID and a document with current name and address

APPROVED PHOTO IDS (CHOOSE ONE)

The ID can be expired.

  • Driver's license, state ID or learner’s permit issued by any state
  • U.S. Passport
  • U.S. Military or Veteran ID
  • Tribal ID with name, signature, and photo
  • Minnesota university, college, or technical college ID
  • Minnesota high school ID

APPROVED DOCUMENTS (CHOOSE ONE)

Can be shown on electronic devices.

  • Bill, account, or start-of-service statement due or dated within 30 days of the election for:
    • Phone, TV, or internet
    • Solid waste, sewer, electric, gas or water
    • Banking or credit card
    • Rent or mortgage
  • Residential lease or rent agreement valid through Election Day
  • Current student fee statement

3. Registered voter who can confirm your address

A registered voter from your precinct can go with you to the polling place to sign an oath confirming your address. This is known as 'vouching.' A registered voter can vouch for up to eight voters. You cannot vouch for others if someone vouched for you.

4. College student ID with housing list

Colleges and universities may send election officials a student housing list. If you are on the list, show your college photo ID to complete your registration.

5. Valid registration in the same precinct

If you are registered in the precinct but changed names or moved within the same precinct, you only need to tell the election judge your previous name or address.

6. Notice of Late Registration

If you registered to vote within 20 days of the election, you may get a Notice of Late Registration in the mail. Bring it with you and use it as your proof of residence to register.

7. Staff person of a residential facility

If you live in a residential facility, a staff person can go with you to the polling place to confirm your address. This is known as 'vouching.' A staff person can vouch for all eligible voters living in the facility.

The staff person must prove their employment at the facility. There are several ways to do this, including by showing an employee badge. Learn more about voter registration in residential facilities. 

How do you check my registration?

You can see if you are registered at your current address by clicking here and entering your information accurately.

Do you have to register if you move or change names? 

You must re-register each time you change address, change names, or do not vote at least once during a four-year period. Update your registration by completing a new registration application in the above link. 

Is there a registration deadline?

Unlike many states, you can wait until Election Day to register in Minnesota. However, we encourage you to register before Election Day—it will save you time at the polling place.

Can you register when you renew my driver's license or state ID?

You can register to vote by checking a box on your driver’s license or state ID application or renewal form.

Can I register when I change addresses with U.S. Postal Service?

If you move to a new Minnesota residence, you can submit a United States Postal Service (USPS) change-of-address form. USPS will notify election officials of the change. If election officials can match the record in their system, they will update your address and mail a green confirmation postcard to you.

Where can I get proof of registration?

Proof of registration can be obtained from your county election office. Pick your county, and contact them either in person, by phone or email.

My registration has a typo—what do I do?

If you note a typo in your name on the confirmation postcard you receive after registering, contact your county election office. Pick your county, and contact them either in person, by phone or email.

How do I cancel my voter registration? 

Complete the Request to Inactivate Voter Record, and send it to your county election office.

Voting on Election Day?

When is Election Day?

Election Day for 2023 is November 7th.

 Where do I vote?

Use this Polling Place Finder to find out when and where the next election is being held. As well as a sample ballot.

 Are there rules at the polling place?

Yes, there are a few rules of conduct at polling places. Visit this web page for the comprehensive list of polling place rules.

 What are the voting hours?

Polling places are usually open between 7am and 8pm on Election Day. As long as you are in line by 8pm, you can still vote. 

Can I take time off work to vote?

You have a right to take time off work to vote without losing your pay, personal leave, or vacation time. Your employer cannot directly or indirectly refuse, limit, or interfere with this right, including what time you choose to vote. But may request you coordinate your absences to minimize workplace disruptions. Visit mnvotes.org to find a letter you can give to your employer explaining your right to time off for voting.

 What is a sample ballot?

A sample ballot is a document sent to registered voters to help them prepare for the elections. It will have details regarding your polling place, hours of the polling place, and information about candidates who are running in that election. You can also find a sample ballot here by entering your zip code or county. You have the right to bring the sample ballot into the voting booth on election day.