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Five minutes a week. Protect your vote.

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Check your ID requirements

There’s no single set of rules here. Every state has different requirements and some are more strict than others. Most states require some form of identification to vote, and others only require it for first-time voters. Voter ID laws are also subject to change, so even if you think you know your state’s rules, it’s important to check!

Things to know:

  • Does your state require a government-issued photo ID, photo ID, or non-photo ID? Or is ID only required for first-time voters?
  • Does your ID need to be current or will they accept an expired ID?

If you don’t have an acceptable ID, learn more about your backup options from your Secretary of State.

In-person voting in California

CALIFORNIA

Only first-time voters must show ID when they vote.

Acceptable forms of ID include:

  • a current and valid photo identification
  • a recent utility bill, bank statement, government check, paycheck, or other government document that shows your name and current address
Learn more about my state's ID requirements

If you have any questions, you should contact your local election commission for the most up-to-date information.

Extra credit

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Help a voter get the necessary ID

Voter ID laws might not sound like an obstacle to voting, but many Americans lack the identification required by their state. For example, 18% of U.S. citizens over the age of 65, 16% of Latino voters, 25% of Black voters, and 15% of low-income Americans do not have an acceptable photo ID.

Do you need to get an ID before voting in this election? VoteRiders provides free one-on-one help to individuals who need to secure an accepted form of ID to vote.

Do you know someone who needs help getting an ID? Send them a quick text to help them get election-ready. It only takes a minute!

Sample message

Hi [NAME], I just wanted to see if you need any help getting an ID! VoteRiders offers free one-on-one assistance to individuals who need to secure an accepted ID to vote. Here’s the link: https://voteriders.org/freehelp

Most states require some form of ID to vote.

36 states have laws requesting or requiring voters to show some form of ID at the polls.
At least 9 states have enacted new stricter voter ID requirements since 2020.
At least 6 states have voter ID measures on the ballot in the 2026 election, the highest number ever.

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