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What do I need to bring in order to vote in Texas?

The November 8 election is going to be a big one for the state. Are you prepared to vote?

TEXAS, USA — The November 8 election is going to be a big one for Texas, with the Governor's seat and every U.S. Representative's seat on the ballot.

So, what do you need to bring in order to cast your ballot? 

En español: La elección de noviembre: ¿Que necesito para emitir mi voto?

Check to see if you're registered to vote

The deadline to register to vote in the Nov. 8 election is Oct. 11. If you're not sure if you're registered to vote in this election, you can check on the Secretary of State's website.

County Elections Website

You can also check for that information on many county elections websites, some of which include interactive maps to help you find the closest location. 

County websites will also often have more information on your local elections and voting.

Below is a list of North Texas county elections websites:

Don't see your county on this list? Visit the Texas Secretary of State's website for a complete list.

What to bring to a polling site to vote

To vote in person in Texas, you must present a valid photo ID. Below is a list of valid forms of identification:

  • Texas drivers licenses issued by the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS)
  • Texas Election Identification Certificate issued by DPS
  • Texas Personal Identification Card issued by DPS
  • Texas handgun license issued by DPS
  • U.S. Military Identification Card that contains the person's photograph
  • U.S. Citizenship Certificate that contains the person’s photograph
  • U.S. passport

Here’s a list of what to bring if you do not have one of the accepted forms of photo ID and “cannot reasonably obtain one”:

  • Copy or original of a government document that shows the voter’s name, address, including voter’s voter registrations certificate
  • Copy of or original current utility bill
  • Copy of or original bank statement
  • Copy of or original government check
  • Copy of or original paycheck; or
  • Copy of or original of (a) a certified birth certificate from a U.S. state or territory or (b) a document confirming birth admissible in a court of law which establishes the voter’s identity

If you are unable to present a valid photo ID but can present one of the above forms of supporting ID, you will need to fill out a Reasonable Impediment Declaration.

Election Guide: Here's everything you should know about the Nov. 8 election in North Texas

How to request a mail-in ballot

To vote by mail in Texas, you must be 65 years old or older, sick or disabled, out of the county on Election Day and during the early voting period or confined in jail but otherwise eligible.

The last day to apply for a mail-in ballot for the Nov. 8 election is Friday, Oct. 28 (received, not postmarked). You may submit your application by mail, email (ebbm@traviscounty.gov), fax (512-854-3969) or in person.

To vote by mail in Texas, you must be 65 years old or older, sick or disabled, out of the county on Election Day and during the early voting period or confined in jail but otherwise eligible.

Guía de elección en español: Aquí todo lo que necesita saber sobre la elección de noviembre en el norte de Texas

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