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1. What are the qualifications to register to vote in Virginia?

You must be a U.S. citizen, a resident of Virginia, and be 18 years of age by the next general election. You must have had your rights restored if you have ever been convicted of a felony or have been judged mentally incapacitated in a Circuit Court.

2. Where can I register to vote?

Register at DMV, the Office of Voter Registration, Department of Social Services and other state agencies. Register online at elections.virginia.gov or print and complete a Virginia Voter Registration Application Form and mail to 300 Lee Street, Suite 101, Bristol, VA  24201.

Applications are also available at the Bristol Public Library.

To request an application be mailed to you, please call (276) 645-7318.

3. When are elections held in Virginia?

General elections are held on the first Tuesday after the first Monday every November. Local government elections for City Council and School Board are held on the first Tuesday in May of even-numbered years. Visit this website or consult the local news media outlets for further information on special elections and primaries.

4. Is an ID card required in order to vote?

Virginia requires a photo ID when voting.  Acceptable forms of identification include: Valid Virginia Driver's License, DMV-issued photo ID card, valid U.S. Passport, valid employee photo ID card, other federal or Virginia state government-issued photo ID.   A valid photo ID from a college, university, or high school from an institution in Virginia may also be used. Voters without an acceptable form of ID may visit the local voter registration office to have a photo ID card for voting made free of charge.  Voters who fail to provide a photo ID at the time of voting may be offered a provisional ballot.  For more information visit elections.virginia.gov.

5. Can I vote an absentee ballot?

Absentee voting begins 45 days before a general or primary election for eligible voters. If you are unable to go to the polls on Election Day, you may qualify to vote an absentee ballot either in person at the office or by mail.  Voters who have a disability, active duty military personnel and family, students attending college away from home or being out of town are just a few of the accepted reasons.  Visit the Virginia Department of Elections website or call your local voter registration office for a full list.

Department of Elections

6. What time do the polls open on Election Day?

Voting precincts are open from 6:00 am until 7:00 pm.