We’re just over two weeks away from Election Day, and there’s a lot on the ballot for Madison voters to weigh in on, from a presidential race, to a Dane County Executive race, to budget referendum questions for both the city and Madison school district.
Here’s what you need to know:
How To Register To Vote
Find out if you're registered to vote by using this easy online tool at My Vote Wisconsin.
The deadline for registering to vote passed on Oct. 16, but you can still register in person starting Tuesday at an in-person absentee voting location until the Friday before Election Day (Nov. 1).
Wisconsin also offers same-day voter registration, so you can register when you go to your polling location on Nov. 5. Make sure to bring a photo ID and proof of residence, such as a utility bill or a paycheck.
How To Vote Absentee
To vote by mail, you can request an absentee ballot until 5 p.m. on the Thursday before the election (Oct. 31), but election officials urge voters not to wait until the last minute.
The ballot has to be received by your polling place on Election Day, so officials recommend mailing it at least a week in advance. You can track your ballot online at MyVote Wisconsin.
Starting this Tuesday and ending Sunday, Nov. 3, voters can also go to one of many locations around the city for “in-person absentee voting.” This differs from what’s called “early voting” in other states, in that your absentee ballot is sealed and not counted until Election Day.
How To Use Ballot Drop Boxes
Absentee ballots can also be dropped off in one of 14 secure drop boxes located at Madison’s 14 fire department stations. The boxes will be available until 5 p.m. the day before the election (Nov. 4).
How To Vote in Person
Polling places will be open 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Election Day. To find your polling place, visit the MyVote website. A photo ID is required.
How To Get a Photo ID
Wisconsin requires photo identification to vote. The list of acceptable forms of photo ID include a driver’s license, a military ID card, or U.S. passport. UW-Madison officials say they will make sure student IDs are also compliant. An acceptable ID does not have to include a current address.
If you don’t have a driver’s license, you can get a valid Voting ID from the Wisconsin DOT at either of Madison’s DMV offices.
