ACLU: Lack of photo ID should not prevent you from being able to vote

The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of Virginia is encouraging all registered voters to visit the polls this Election Day (Tuesday, November 4) and cast a ballot, even if they lack photo ID.  The ACLU of Virginia will be monitoring the polls and will have a hotline available to ensure that all of Virginia’s registered voters are able to exercise their constitutional right to vote.  Voters may call the hotline number at 1-800-678-9885.  Voters who encounter problems may also send emails to:[email protected] or [email protected].

“There have been many questions regarding the new photo ID law and what voters can expect when they arrive at the polls on Tuesday,” said ACLU of Virginia Staff Attorney Hope Amezquita. “Polling places should be prepared to offer provisional ID ballots to voters lacking acceptable photo ID and provide written instructions on how to get a free voter photo ID to ensure their vote is counted.  Confusion about the new requirements of the law should not deter any voter from going to their assigned polling place and casting his or her ballot.”

• Voters who lack a photo ID may get a free, temporary photo ID instantly from their general registrar, even on Election Day and through November 7, 2014.
• At the polls, voters without valid photo ID may cast a provisional ID ballot, but to ensure their vote is counted, they must show proof of photo ID to their general registrar by the deadline, 12 p.m. on Friday, November 7, 2014.  Voters may submit proof of photo ID in-person, by email, fax, or by mail delivery service (note: mail must be received by the general registrar by 12 p.m.)
• Before heading to the polls, voters are encouraged to verify their assigned polling place by calling their general registrar’s office or online at: www.elections.virginia.gov

Acceptable photo IDs include:

• Virginia Driver’s License or other Virginia dmv Photo ID (not expired more than 12 months);
• U.S. Passport (not expired more than 12 months);
• Other Government Photo ID Issued by the U.S., Virginia, or local or political subdivision of Virginia;
• Virginia College or University Student Photo ID;
• Employee Photo ID; and
• the free Virginia Voter Photo ID

Voters encountering problems at the polls are encouraged to call the ACLU of Virginia at 1-800-678-9885, or email: [email protected], or [email protected].