Here’s what to expect at the polls on Election Day

Got questions about voting in person on Election Day? We’ve got answers for you.

Whether you’re voting in person for the first time, your 50th time, or your first time in a long time, it’s always good to brush up on what you should know before heading to the polls on Election Day.

So if you plan on voting in person on Tuesday, Nov. 5, keep the following things in mind:

What time are the polls open?

In Pennsylvania, the polls are open at 7:00 a.m. and close at 8:00 p.m. If you are already in line when polls close, you have the right to vote. Stay in line. 

Where do I vote?

You can search for your polling place with your home address on the PA Voter Services website.

Do I need to bring identification?

First-time voters must bring a photo or non-photo ID. Approved forms of photo identification include:

• Pennsylvania driver’s license or PennDOT ID card
• ID issued by any state agency
• ID issued by the U.S. Government
• U.S. passport
• U.S. Armed Forces ID
• Student ID
• Employee ID

If you do not have a photo ID, you can use a non-photo identification that includes your name and address, including: 

• Confirmation issued by the County Voter Registration Office
• Non-photo ID issued by the Commonwealth
• Non-photo ID issued by the U.S. Government
• Firearm permit
• Current utility bill
• Current bank statement
• Current paycheck
• Government check

What time are polls the busiest?

Generally speaking, the peak voting times in Pennsylvania tend to be right when the polls open at 7 a.m. to 8 a.m. (before work for many),11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. (lunch time for many), and 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., when the polls close (after work for many). So if you’re looking to avoid the crowds, plan to vote at off-peak hours.

Do I have to register to vote in advance?

Yes. Pennsylvania does NOT allow same-day voter registration. You must register to vote at least 15 days before the election. You can register to vote here.

I didn’t vote in the primary. Can I still vote on Election Day?

Even if you skipped the primary, you can vote in the general election. 

What if I don’t have a ride to the polls on Election Day?

If you need a ride to the polls on Election Day, be sure to check your public transportation options. Alternatively, there are multiple organizations willing to help. One option is Drive Your Ballot, a Pennsylvania-based organization that connects voters with drivers to coordinate transportation to the polls. Check out their website for details. 

Can I bring my kid with me into the voting booth? 

Yes. There are no rules against bringing a child into the voting booth with you. Of course, make sure your child is quiet and respectful as others vote. 

What if I make a mistake on my ballot? Can I have a re-do? 

Yes, so long as you have not yet submitted your ballot. If voting in-person, simply tell the poll worker that you’d like a new ballot. They will “spoil” your first ballot by tearing it up and providing you with a new one. You cannot, however, request a new ballot once you’ve mailed in an absentee ballot or turned in your in-person ballot to be counted. 

Can I wear political gear to the polls?

Wearing buttons, hats, shirts, or other garments advertising your preferred candidates is considered “electioneering,” along with discussing your voting preferences with fellow voters at the polling location. Just don’t do it. 

What if the poll workers say I’m not eligible to vote, but I believe I am?

Ask for a provisional ballot. Per the ACLU, all voters are entitled to a provisional ballot, which will require election officials to look into your voter eligibility status after Election Day and count your ballot if you are indeed qualified. 

What is voter intimidation?

Voter intimidation is prohibited by federal law and involves attempted interference with a person’s ability to freely vote. Examples include displaying false signage about voter requirements, impersonating a poll worker to spread false information, and aggressively questioning voters regarding their citizenship or voting right status. Additionally, Pennsylvania law prohibits political campaigning within 10 feet of a polling location. 

If you believe you’ve experienced voter intimidation, report it to your local election office and call the Election Protection Hotline at 1-866-OUR-VOTE (English) or 1-888-VE-Y-VOTA (Spanish). You can find more information, including hotline options for additional languages, here.

Are you ready to vote? Make sure to check your voter registration status, see who’s on your ballot, and make a voting plan here.