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of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania

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    First Time Voters

    If you are voting in Pennsylvania for the first time or if you are voting at a new polling place, find out what you need to know to ensure your voice is heard on Election Day.

    What do I need to prepare?

    What do I need to know about the polling place?

    • In Pennsylvania, polls are open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. The busiest times of day to vote are in the morning and evening. If you can, try going at less busy times.
    • If you have a question, ask a poll worker.
    • If you are in line at or before 8 p.m. (when polls close), you will be allowed to cast your vote.

    What do I do if there is a problem?

    • If you need help voting, cannot use the voting system, or cannot go to a polling place because of a disability, learn about accessible voting options.
    • If your name is not in the voter roster and you believe you registered to vote in your precinct, you may have the right to vote on a provisional ballot. Your vote will count if election officials determine that you are eligible to vote.
    • If you are away from home on Election Day, you may be able to vote by absentee ballot.

    Voter ID for First Time Voters

    When voting at a polling place for the first time, you must show proof of identification. Learn more about the types of ID you can show.

    Approved forms of photo identification include:

    • Pennsylvania driver’s license or PennDOT ID card
    • ID issued by any Commonwealth agency
    • ID issued by the U.S. Government
    • U.S. passport
    • U.S. Armed Forces ID
    • Student ID
    • Employee ID


    If you do not have a photo ID, you can use a non-photo identification that includes your name and address, including: 

    • Confirmation issued by the County Voter Registration Office
    • Non-photo ID issued by the Commonwealth
    • Non-photo ID issued by the U.S. Government
    • Firearm permit
    • Current utility bill
    • Current bank statement
    • Current paycheck
    • Government check