When and Where to Vote

The general election will be held on November 4th, 2008.  Polls will open at 7:00am and close at 8:00pm.  You can cast your vote at your polling location which varies depending on what precinct you live in.  You can use the Secretary of State’s Poll Finder to find your polling location.

How to Register to Vote before Election Day

Fill out a voter registration card and return it in person or by mail to your county auditor or the secretary of state.

Voter registration forms are available at county courthouses, city halls, and other public buildings throughout the state.  You may also register to vote when you apply for or renew your Minnesota driver's license or state identification card.

How to Vote Absentee before Election Day

You can vote by absentee ballot if you are unable to vote in person on Election Day because you are:

• Away from home
• Ill or disabled
• An election judge serving in another precinct
• Unable to go to the polling place due to a religious holiday or beliefs.

How to Register to Vote on Election Day

You can register on Election Day, November 4th, 2008 at the polling place in your precinct. You will need one of the following to verify your identity and residence.

• Minnesota driver’s license, learner’s permit, identification card, or receipt for one, with your current address, or
• Tribal ID, or
• One of the above if the Minnesota license, Tribal ID or MN State ID has a former address, you may bring a recent utility bill, or
• Notice of Late Registration� postcard mailed to you by your city’s Elections Office, or
• U.S. passport with utility bill, or
• U.S. military photo ID card with utility bill, or
• If you are a student, you can use:
• Student ID, registration, or fee statement with your current address
• Student photo ID with utility bill
• Student ID if you are on a student housing list on file at the polling place
• Someone who is registered in the precinct where you live who will vouch for your residence

Please note that the utility bill must have your name, current address, and be due within 30 days of the election. Utility bills may be for electric, gas, water, waste, sewer, telephone, or cable TV.