SALT LAKE CITY – The general election is on Nov. 3, and voters want to make sure their votes are counted.
Here’s what to know when voting in this year’s general election.
Who can vote in Utah?
To vote in Utah, you must meet the following:
- Be a US citizen.
- Be a resident of Utah for at least 30 days immediately preceding Election Day.
- Be at least 18 years old on or before the next election.
If you’re a college student or have otherwise recently moved to Utah, as long as you meet the requirements above, you’re eligible to vote.
Utahns who meet the above requirements and are incarcerated can vote if:
- They have not been convicted.
- Have been convicted of a misdemeanor, unless they were convicted for violating the election code.
Residents who have been convicted of a felony may vote after they are released from incarceration, but will need to re-register.
Utahns who are experiencing homelessness have the right to vote. They must provide a mailing address.
The ACLU of Utah recommends listing a “local advocacy organization, shelter, outreach center, or anywhere else that is willing to accept mail on your behalf.”
Utah residents in the military or living overseas may request a ballot. The last day to make the request is Nov. 2.
Voters who do not speak English, have issues reading or writing, or need accommodations for a disability can have someone assist them with the voting process.
They may choose whoever they want as long as it isn’t:
- Their employer or an agent of the employer.
- An officer or agent of their union.
- A candidate.
How to register to vote in Utah
In Utah, voters can vote by mail or in person on Election Day or in advance.
Every active registered voter in Utah should receive a ballot in the mail starting Oct. 13.
Voters can register online or by email/mail through Oct. 23. If sending your registration form through the mail, check online for your county clerk’s address.
Utahns who haven’t registered by that date can still register in person at early voting locations or on Election Day.
To register in person, you must provide two valid forms of identification:
- A document that verifies your identity
- A document that shows proof of residence
Utah’s voter information website offers a full list of acceptable documents.
How to cast your vote in Utah
Every active registered voter in Utah should receive a ballot in the mail.
You can vote by mail by:
- Returning it via the postage-paid return envelope provided within the ballot.
- Dropping it in a secure drop box.
- Dropping it at an early voting location or on Election Day.
- Dropping it at a Voting Center on Election Day.
If you are voting by mail, your county clerk must have it before 8 p.m. on Election Day. A postmarked ballot will not be counted if it is not received by that deadline.
If you prefer to vote in person, you can do so as long as you haven’t sent in your mail-in ballot.
If you are voting in person and are already registered, you must have a valid photo ID or two documents that prove your identity and address. Find a full list of acceptable documents on Utah’s voter information website.
If you’re voting in person on Election Day, you can cast your vote as long as you are in line by 8 p.m.
If you have questions or concerns about voting in Utah, contact your county clerk.
