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LibGuides

Elections and Voting

Find information about national, state, and local elections in the United States, including voter registration and identification requirements, voting rights, polling places, and other resources.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Special Circumstances

Can residents of US territories vote?

There are currently 16 US territories, and five of them have permanent residents who are US citizens. These 5 includes Puerto Rico, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, American Samoa, and the US Virgin Islands. Residents of US territories cannot vote in US presidential elections and do not elect voting representatives or senators to US Congress. 

Can US non-citizens vote?

US non-citizens (including permanent legal residents) cannot vote in federal, state, and most local elections.

Can incarcerated population vote?

Rules regarding votes for incarcerated population depends on the policies for each state. US Department of Justice have compiled a Guide to State Voting Rules that Apply after a Criminal Conviction that outlines some policies for specific state. 

How do US citizens overseas vote?

US citizens overseas maintain their rights to vote anywhere they are located. The Federal Voting Assistance Program provides support with voting for service members, their families and overseas citizens.