Frequently Asked Questions Regarding the Nov. 3, 2020 General Election and Voting by Mail
- As the risk of COVID-19 is still imminent, how can voters safely participate in the General Election on Nov. 3?
- Will precinct polling locations still be open for those who prefer to vote in person?
- When is the deadline to request an absentee ballot?
- How can Michigan residents without a Michigan state ID card or driver's license register to vote?
- When is the deadline to register to vote in the Nov. 3 election?
- Can eligible citizens register to vote on Nov. 3 at a Secretary of State branch office?
- How can voters ensure their registration is up to date before the General Election without an appointment to change their address at a Secretary of State branch office?
- How is the state ensuring the security of same-day voter registration?
- Are voters required to vote absentee?
- Will all those who have signed up to be on the permanent absentee voting list automatically receive an absentee ballot for the Nov. 3 election?
- When will absentee ballots be mailed to voters?
- How can voters return their absentee ballot to ensure it is received and tabulated on Election Day?
- Can voters who have already cast their absentee voter ballot early change their vote?
- Is a voter required to personally return their own absentee ballot or may another permitted individual do so on their behalf?
- What should voters do if they have not received their absentee ballot by mail before Election Day?
- What happens if the signature on a voter's absentee ballot does not match the signature on their voter file?
- How can voters return an absentee ballot application received for someone who no longer resides at the provided mailing address on Election Day?
- Are voters required to wear a face mask to cast their vote in person at their precinct polling location in the upcoming Nov. 3 General Election?
- What must voters bring with them to the polls in order to vote?
- Are 'ballot selfies' permitted for voters participating in the General Election?
- Is campaign paraphernalia permitted for in person voting?
- Are voters required to present their driver's license or state identification card in order to vote in person?
- Will the ballot for the General Election be a straight-ticket, or can voters vote for candidates of more than one political party?
- How is MDOS ensuring the safety of voters, clerks, and election workers for the General Election?
- How is MDOS ensuring election security and integrity for the Nov. 3 General Election?
- Where can I find out more about early voting by absentee voter ballot?
- As many election workers are older and may be more vulnerable to contracting COVID-19, how will the Department ensure all jurisdictions have sufficient election workers?
- What options are available to quarantined or hospitalized voters who would like to vote in the November General Election?
- How can quarantined or hospitalized voters return their absentee ballot to their local clerk?
- Is a voter required to personally return their own absentee ballot or may another permitted individual do so on their behalf?
- Can voters track when their absentee ballot is mailed and received?
- What options are available to quarantined or hospitalized voters if they do not receive their requested absentee ballot within a reasonable amount of time prior to Nov. 3?
- Can eligible Michigan citizens who are quarantined or hospitalized register to vote in the Nov. 3 election online or by mail?
- If a voter has a condition that makes it challenging for them to complete their absentee ballot independently, can another individual assist them in filling out their ballot on their behalf?
- What is the guidance in the event of an emergency if a voter is hospitalized or forced to quarantine before they have the opportunity to vote?
- Links to all Elections & Voting FAQs
