Voting FAQs

Voting FAQs

Who is eligible to vote in Michigan?
In order to vote in Michigan you must be a U.S. citizen, 18 years old by election day, a resident of the city or township where you register and not serving a sentence in jail or prison.

VOTER REGISTRATION

• How do I register to vote?
• Do I need identification to register to voter?
• How long before an election must I register?
• How often do I have to register and What if I’ve moved?

VOTING AT THE POLLS

• What is a precinct?
• How do I know where to vote?
• What should I take with me to vote?
• How long does it take to vote?
• Can I wear election related clothing to the polls?

EARLY VOTING

• What is Early Voting?

ABSENTEE VOTING

• What is an absentee ballot?
• Who is eligible for an absentee ballot?
• How do I obtain an absentee ballot?
• Can a university student who is a first time voter get an absentee ballot?

VOTING IN PRIMARY ELECTIONS

• Can I vote in the primary election if I am not a registered Democrat or Republican?
• Can I vote on either party’s primary ticket?

WRITE-IN CANDIDATES

• How can I vote for someone whose name is not on the ballot (a “write-in” candidate)?  For more information, refer to the manual here.
• What if a candidate dies before the election?
• How can I become a write-in candidate?

VOTING FOR POLITICAL PARTIES

• What is meant by a “straight party ticket”? a “split ticket”? a “mixed ticket”?
• Where can I get additional information about voting in Michigan?

VIDEOS ABOUT ELECTION SECURITY

• Adam Wit, Harrison Township Clerk, discusses Michigan Election laws and safety measures local clerks take to make sure your ballot and vote are safe and secure before election day. Learn about registering to vote, different methods of voting in Michigan and where to go for information.
• Kim Meltzer, Clinton Township Clerk, discusses Michigan Election laws and safety measures local clerks take to make sure your ballot and vote are safe and secure on election day. Learn about how your ballot is protected during the election and how Michigan clerks keep voting equipment safe and secure.
• Melanie Ryska, Sterling Heights Clerk, discusses Michigan Election laws and safety measures local clerks take to make sure your ballot and vote are safe and secure after you vote. Learn what safety measures are taken to secure absentee ballots and election-day votes.