Editor’s note: This story has been updated from the print publication to reflect an expansion of early voting that was announced after the October issue went to press.
The November election is just a few weeks away—so now’s the time to make sure your voter information is updated and you are ready to cast a ballot in some of the most important elections of our time.
What you need to vote in person
A valid photo ID. That can be: a Louisiana driver’s license, a Louisiana special ID card (obtained for free at the Office of Motor Vehicles by showing your voter information card), a Louisiana Wallet digital driver’s license, or any other picture ID card that contains your name and signature. If you do not have a form of ID, you can still vote in person by signature on a voter affidavit, which will be later verified by an election official.
Voting by mail
Louisiana requires an approved reason for voting by mail, such as temporarily being out of state or overseas, or being 65 or older. Your application must be submitted by 4:30 p.m. on the fourth day before the election. Once approved, the completed ballot must be received by 4:30 p.m. the day before the election. It’s a complicated process, so apply as early as possible if you know you can’t be present to vote in person (there is no start date to apply).
