Compiled by Jackie Robinson, UMW Communications Committee
Voters can head to the polls now that the Texas Primary election is underway. Early voting started on February 14 and will run for two weeks until February 25. Election Day voting takes place on March 1.
In this election, there’s a lot at stake, with the governor and other statewide offices on the ballot, along with races for all seats in the U.S. House and Texas House up for grabs. It will be the first election held under new political district lines just drawn and approved by the Legislature. State lawmakers also have made changes to some state election laws, which may impact how voting takes place in your area.
Take the time now to visit this election voting guide and bookmark it for later, or visit it anytime at aarp.org/txvotes. A Spanish-language page is available at aarp.org/txvota.
This year’s election is important and so is your right to vote.
Not sure what to bring to the polls?
Texas requires you to bring a photo ID that also shows your residence, especially if you’re voting for the first time. Make sure you’re prepared.
Identification Requirements for Voting
Under Texas law, voters who possess one of the seven acceptable forms of photo ID must present that ID at the polls when voting in person. Voters who do not possess and cannot reasonably obtain one of the seven approved forms of photo ID may fill out a Reasonable Impediment Declaration (RID) (PDF) at the polls and present an alternative form of ID, such as a utility bill, bank statement, government check, or a voter registration certificate.
Here is a list of the acceptable forms of photo ID:
- Texas Driver License issued by the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS)
- Texas Election Identification Certificate issued by DPS
- Texas Personal Identification Card issued by DPS
- Texas Handgun License issued by DPS
- United States Military Identification Card containing the person’s photograph
- United States Citizenship Certificate containing the person’s photograph
- United States Passport (book or card)
With the exception of the U.S. Citizenship Certificate, which does not expire, for voters aged 18-69, the acceptable form of photo identification may be expired no more than four years before being presented for voter qualification at the polling place. For voters aged 70 or older, the acceptable form of photo identification may be expired for any length of time if the identification is otherwise valid. Election Identification Certificates are available from DPS driver license offices during regular business hours. Find mobile station locations here.
What are my general rights on Election Day?
- If the polls close while you’re still in line, stay in line – you have the right to vote.
- If you make a mistake on your ballot, ask for a new one.
- If the machines are down at your polling place, ask for a paper ballot.
- If you run into any problems or have questions on Election Day, call the Election Protection Hotline:
English: 1-866-OUR-VOTE / 1-866-687-8683
Spanish: 1-888-VE-Y-VOTA / 1-888-839-8682
Source: AARP.org and VoteTexas.gov