In Alabama, ensuring the integrity of elections is paramount, and one key measure is the Photo Voter ID law. Since the June 3, 2014 primary election, Alabama law requires voters to present a valid form of photo identification at the polls. This requirement, stemming from Act 2011-673, aims to maintain secure and fair elections. If you’re wondering, “Where Do I Get A Photo Id” for voting in Alabama, this guide will provide you with comprehensive information.
Understanding Alabama’s Photo Voter ID Law
The law mandates that every Alabama voter must present a specific type of photo ID when voting in person. This is not intended to disenfranchise voters; rather, it’s designed to safeguard the voting process. For those who do not possess a valid photo ID, Alabama provides a free Photo Voter ID card.
Valid Photo IDs Accepted at Alabama Polling Places
Before exploring “where do i get a photo id”, it’s crucial to know what types of IDs are already acceptable. You might already have a valid ID that meets the requirements. Here is a list of valid photo IDs for voting in Alabama:
- Valid Driver’s License: This includes licenses that are not expired or have been expired for less than 60 days.
- Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) Digital Driver’s License: The digital version of your driver’s license is also accepted.
- Valid Non-driver ID: Similar to driver’s licenses, non-driver IDs are valid if not expired or expired for less than 60 days.
- ALEA Digital Non-driver ID: The digital format is also permissible.
- Valid Alabama Photo Voter ID: This is the free ID specifically for voting purposes.
- Valid State-Issued ID: Photo IDs issued by Alabama or any other U.S. state are acceptable. This includes:
- Valid AL Department of Corrections Release- Temporary ID (Photo Required)
- Valid AL Movement/Booking Sheet from Prison/Jail System (Photo Required)
- Valid Pistol Permit (Photo Required)
- Valid Federal Issued ID: Any photo ID issued by the U.S. Federal Government.
- Valid US Passport: Your passport serves as valid photo identification.
- Valid Employee ID: IDs from the Federal Government, State of Alabama, County Government, Municipality, Board, Authority, or other Alabama state entities are accepted.
- Valid Student or Employee ID from an Alabama College or University: This includes IDs from postgraduate, technical, and professional schools within Alabama.
- Valid Military ID: U.S. Military IDs are valid.
- Valid Tribal ID: Photo IDs issued by recognized Native American tribes.
If you possess any of these valid photo IDs, you do not need to obtain a free Alabama Photo Voter ID card. Simply present one of these at your polling place.
Where Do I Get a Free Alabama Photo Voter ID?
For voters who do not have any of the valid photo IDs listed above, Alabama offers a free Photo Voter ID. So, “where do i get a photo id” if you need the free option? You can obtain one from several convenient locations:
- Secretary of State’s Office: The main office can issue free Photo Voter IDs.
- Local County Board of Registrars’ Offices: Your county registrar’s office is a primary location to get your free ID.
- Mobile Locations: The Secretary of State’s Office operates a Mobile Photo Voter ID Unit that travels to various locations throughout Alabama. This mobile service aims to make it easier for everyone to obtain a free ID, especially in underserved communities. You can find the mobile ID location schedule online to see when the mobile unit will be in your area.
To further enhance accessibility, you can even Request a home visit or group event by our Photo Voter ID Mobile Unit if you or a group you are part of face challenges in reaching the standard locations.
To apply for a free Photo Voter ID, you can download the application form here. Completing the application beforehand can streamline the process when you visit one of the issuing locations.
What Happens If You Don’t Have Photo ID at the Polls?
Even if you arrive at the polls without a valid photo ID, you can still vote. Alabama law ensures that voters are not disenfranchised due to a lack of photo identification at the moment of voting.
- Provisional Ballot: If you are required to present photo identification but do not have it, you will be allowed to vote a provisional ballot. This ballot will be counted once your eligibility is verified.
- Affidavit Option: If you do not have a valid photo ID in your possession at the polls, you are permitted to vote if you are positively identified by two election officials as a voter on the poll list who is eligible to vote. These election officials must then sign a sworn affidavit confirming your identity.
These provisions ensure that every eligible voter can cast their ballot, even if they initially lack photo identification at the polling place.
Stay Informed and Prepared
Understanding Alabama’s Photo Voter ID requirements is essential for every voter. Knowing “where do i get a photo id” and what forms of ID are acceptable ensures a smooth and successful voting experience. For more detailed information, you can download the Photo Voter ID Guide.
If you have any questions regarding voter identification requirements, the Alabama Elections Division is available to assist you. You can reach them via email or by phone at 242-7210 (in Montgomery) or 1-800-274-8683 (statewide). Make sure you are prepared and informed for every election in Alabama.
