Photo identification for voting, often referred to as photo voter ID, is a legal requirement in some jurisdictions that mandates voters to present a valid photo identification document at polling stations before they are allowed to cast their ballots. This measure is intended to prevent voter fraud and ensure the integrity of the election process. This article will explain what photo ID is in the context of voting, focusing on the requirements and regulations in place to ensure fair and secure elections.
In Alabama, for example, the necessity of photo identification to vote was established with the approval of House Bill 19 during the 2011 Regular Legislative Session, which became Act 2011-673. This law, effective from the primary election on June 3, 2014, stipulates that Alabama voters must present a specific type of photo identification at the polls to be eligible to vote.
Valid Forms of Photo ID for Voting
The types of photo IDs accepted at polling places vary by location, but generally include government-issued identifications. In Alabama, a voter can use any of the following forms of photo ID:
- Valid Driver’s License: This includes licenses that are unexpired or have been expired for less than 60 days.
- Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) Digital Driver’s License: The digital version of the driver’s license issued by ALEA.
- Valid Non-driver ID: Similar to driver’s licenses, these IDs should be valid or expired for no more than 60 days.
- ALEA Digital Non-driver ID: The digital counterpart to the non-driver ID.
- Valid Alabama Photo Voter ID: Specifically issued for voting purposes in Alabama.
- Valid State Issued ID: Photo IDs issued by Alabama or any other state. This category also includes:
- Valid AL Department of Corrections Release- Temporary ID (with photo)
- Valid AL Movement/Booking Sheet from Prison/Jail System (with photo)
- Valid Pistol Permit (with photo)
- Valid Federal Issued ID: Identification cards issued by the federal government.
- Valid US Passport: A valid passport issued by the United States government.
- Valid Employee ID: IDs from the Federal Government, State of Alabama, County Government, Municipality, Board, Authority, or any other entity of the state of Alabama.
- Valid Student or Employee ID from a College or University in Alabama: Including IDs from postgraduate technical or professional schools within Alabama.
- Valid Military ID: Identification cards issued to members of the military.
- Valid Tribal ID: Photo IDs issued by recognized Native American tribes.
It is important to note that if a voter already possesses any of these forms of valid photo ID, they are typically not eligible to receive a free Alabama photo voter ID card. They must present one of these accepted photo IDs when voting in person on Election Day or include a copy of the ID with their absentee ballot materials.
Obtaining a Free Alabama Photo Voter ID
For individuals who do not have any of the valid photo IDs listed above, Alabama provides a free Alabama photo voter ID. Eligible voters can apply for this free photo ID at various locations, including:
- The Secretary of State’s Office
- Local county board of registrars’ offices
- Mobile locations determined by the Secretary of State’s Office
To apply for a free photo voter ID in Alabama, individuals can download the application form online.
To obtain a free photo voter ID, you can download the application form and follow the instructions to apply. Mobile units are also available to provide photo IDs at various locations and events. You can even request a home visit or group event by the Photo Voter ID Mobile Unit.
What Happens if You Don’t Have Photo ID at the Polls?
Even if a voter is required to present valid photo identification but does not have it at the polls, they are still allowed to vote via a provisional ballot. These ballots are set aside and are counted after election officials verify the voter’s eligibility.
Furthermore, in Alabama, even without photo ID in possession at the polls, a voter may still be permitted to vote if they are positively identified by two election officials. These officials must recognize the individual as a voter on the poll list who is eligible to vote and sign a sworn affidavit confirming this identification.
Further Information
For more detailed information, voters are encouraged to consult the Photo Voter ID Guide. This guide provides comprehensive details about the photo voter ID requirements in Alabama.
For any questions regarding voter identification requirements, the Elections Division can be contacted by email at [email protected] or by phone at 242-7210 (in the Montgomery area) or statewide at 1-800-274-8683.
Understanding photo ID requirements is crucial for all eligible voters to ensure they can exercise their right to vote. By being informed about what constitutes a valid photo ID and the processes in place, voters can be prepared and confident when heading to the polls.
