Tips for Election Day

If you are unsure if you are eligible to vote in an election, phone the Department of Elections.  Our telephone numbers are: (386) 736-5930 (West Volusia), (386) 254-4690 (Daytona Beach), (386) 423-3311 (New Smyrna Beach) or (386) 574-0598, x5930 (Osteen/Deltona).  The staff will be happy to answer your questions.

Locate your polling place before election day by comparing the precinct number on your current voter's information card with the list published in the newspaper the Sunday prior to each election or visit the Precinct Locator page.

First Time voters, who registered by mail, be sure you have provided the required identification with your application to the Department of Elections.  Failure to provide a copy of I.D. prior to election may cause delays at the polls.

Voting usually takes only a few minutes.  To avoid lines, vote in the mid-morning or mid-afternoon, when polling places are less likely to be crowded.

Many employers allow employees time off for voting. The polls are open from 7 a.m. until 7 p.m.  All voters in line at 7 p.m. will be given the opportunity to vote.

To save time, study candidates and lengthy ballot issues before election day.  A list of the candidates and referendums can be found on the Department of Elections website or in the newspaper the Sunday preceding the beginning of early voting.  You may also pick up a sample ballot at the Department of Elections, 125 W. New York Avenue, DeLand or at one of the early voting sites when in operation.

Voting is not a test. If you think you might forget the names of the candidates you prefer, write them on a slip of paper and bring it with you. You can also mark a sample ballot with your choices and bring it to the polls.

Once at the polls, don't be afraid to ask questions. Poll workers can explain anything you need to know about how the voting process and voting equipment works.

Remember to bring a picture and signature identification card with you to the polls.  Any combination of the following documents may be presented to fulfill the photo and signature requirements.

• Florida Driver’s License;
• Florida Identification Card issued by the Department of Highway Safety & Motor Vehicles;
• United States Passport;
• Debit or Credit Card;
• Military Identification;
• Student Identification;
• Retirement Center Identification;
• Neighborhood Association Identification;
• Public Assistance Identification.

If you need assistance to vote, notify the poll worker as you enter the polling place.

If you spoil your ballot, go immediately to the voters assistance table. The spoiled ballot will be voided and you will be given a new ballot to vote.

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