West Virginia Voting Guide

When is West Virginia's voter registration deadline?

No matter how you register to vote, you must do so at least 21 days before Election Day.

How do I request an absentee ballot in West Virginia?

If you are eligible for absentee voting, you can fill out a West Virginia Absentee Ballot Application and submit it via fax, e-mail, mail,, or in person to your local County Clerk six days before the election. If it's your first time voting, include a copy verifying your identity, such as a valid photo ID, utility bill, or bank statement.

Under some specific circumstances, which are stated on the application, you may qualify for an Emergency Absent Voter's Ballot. If you do qualify, you can submit a filled-out Application for Voting an Emergency Absent Voter's Ballot to your County Clerk.

Voters who qualify under the Uniformed and Overseas Citizens Absentee Voting Act (UOCAVA) have the option to file their votes online.  

What do I need to bring to the polls in West Virginia?

Under most circumstances, you will be required to show some form of identification when you go to the polls, i.e., some form of ID that is currently valid and contains your name. You can show a photo ID and/or a non-photo ID. Some examples of acceptable photo IDs include:

• Driver's license
• U.S. Passport
• Student ID card

Some acceptable forms of non-photo IDs include:

• Voter registration card
• Utility bill
• Bank statement
• Social Security card
• Birth Certificate

For additional information regarding acceptable IDs and exceptions to the voter ID rule, you can visit the Be Registered and Ready page of the West Virginia Secretary of State's website.

What special accommodations are available?

You are entitled to assistance at the polling place if you are:

• Blind
• Disabled
• Elderly
• Illiterate

If you are disabled and able to vote with the proper equipment, you can use an ADA-compliant machine to cast your ballot. If you require assistance to cast your ballot, you can be assisted by either a person of your choosing or two poll workers of opposing political parties. Additional information regarding polling place accessibility can be found on the Secretary of State's website.

What do I do if I see something illegal at the polls?

If you witness illegal activity at the polls, you should notify a poll worker, your County Clerk, and possibly the Secretary of State's Office. If you believe your voting rights have been illegally limited, you may want to consider contacting an experienced legal professional for advice and assistance.