Ohio Voter Bill of Rights

KNOW YOUR RIGHTS: Remember, never accept a provisional ballot if you have the right to a regular ballot. And, never under any circumstances, allow someone to deny you a provisional ballot if you need to use one.

Ohio Voter Bill of Rights Brochure (PDF)

 Vote Early In Person  You can vote early and in person using an absentee ballot between Sept. 30 and Nov. 3, 2008. Request, receive and vote your ballot at the board of election or at a site designated by the local board of election. You may also apply and request a ballot to mail in by contacting the local board of election.

 BRING ID  Identification is required to vote. Identification may include a current and valid photo ID card, military ID or other identification that shows your name and current address, such as a current utility bill, paycheck or bank statement. If you lack the proper ID, you have the right to vote by provisional ballot if you affirm in writing that you are a registered voter in the jurisdiction and eligible to vote in the election.

 MOVED TO A NEW ADDRESS  If you have moved within the county and have not changed your address by Oct. 6, you can change your address on Election Day at your new polling location and vote a provisional ballot there. You also have the right to vote by provisional ballot early in person beginning Oct. 7 through Election Day at the local board of election or a site designated by the board of election.

If you moved to another county, on Election Day go to one of the following: the board of elections office in the county in which you now live or a site designated by that board of elections and submit a change-of-address and provisional affirmation statement. You will have to vote a provisional ballot for your new voting address.

 ASK FOR ASSISTANCE  If you have a disability, physical limitation or trouble reading or writing, a person of your choice may assist you, except a candidate running for office, your employer or your union.

 REPLACEMENT BALLOTS  If you make a mistake while voting, you have the right to ask for a replacement ballot twice before you submit your vote.

 STAY IN LINE AND VOTE  If you are in line when the polls close, you have the right to stay and vote a regular ballot.

 DON’T LEAVE WITHOUT VOTING  If there is any question regarding your eligibility to vote that cannot be settled on Election Day, you have the right to vote using a provisional ballot.

 RIGHTS OF FELONS  A convicted felon who has been released from prison has the right to register or re-register and to vote.

Source: Ohio Voter Protection Coalition / AFL-CIO