Voters must show identification in 38 states to cast their ballot on Election Day
The last day to cast your vote in the 2022 midterm elections is Tuesday, November 8.
In 38 states, voters are required to present a form of ID when casting their ballot on Election Day.
Some states don't require photo IDs, while others don't require proof of ID at all.
In 38 states, voters who head to the polls on Election Day — which is Tuesday, November, 8 — will need to provide proof of identification to poll workers.
The other 13 states do not require voters to show any form of ID when casting their ballot.
There are four classifications for states with voter ID laws: strict photo, non-strict photo, strict non-photo, and non-strict non-photo.
For states with photo ID requirements (strict photo and non-strict photo), proper forms of identification that must be shown to poll workers in order to vote include a state-issued driver's license, non-driver ID or voter card, US passport, or a military, tribal, student, or state employee card. Most states have exemptions for citizens who cannot be photographed due to their religious beliefs.
Non-photo ID states accept mail that verifies the voter's name and address, including pay-stubs, bank statements, and rent or utility bills. Voters can also use official government mailings as their proof of ID.
Stricter states require voters to cast a provisional ballot or later provide proof of residency to their election officials in order for their votes to count. In less strict states, voters without the required documentation are allowed to cast a sworn affidavit, reasonable impediment declaration, or have a poll worker vouch for them to vote.
Voters in Oregon are only required to show proof of ID if they are first-time voters, as noted in the chart above.
Rules on whether or not a polling place will accept an expired form of ID vary depending on the state.
Voter ID laws were implemented as a way to help prevent against voter fraud during elections. However, studies have shown that laws such as these can disenfranchise voters, especially low-income voters and people of color. Many states offer state ID cards to voters at no additional cost, however obtaining other necessary identification documents like a social security card can be difficult and costly.
As many as 11 percent of US citizens do not have government-issued photo IDs, according to the Brennan Center for Justice. Many of which are older, lower-income, or minority citizens, creating a hindrance for many to vote if their state has strict voter ID laws.
Some states also accept Medicaid or other health insurance cards as a form of ID, so be sure to see what your state will allow before Election Day.
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