Washington
1 Check ID Rules
Voting in Person
You can confirm your identity at a voter center by signing a ballot declaration.
If your signature doesn’t match your voter records, you may be asked to show photo ID.
Common examples include:
- Driver’s license
- State ID card
- US passport or passport card
- Student ID
- Employee ID
Voting by Mail
Washington automatically sends mail ballots to all registered voters. There is no need to request your ballot and no excuse is required to vote by mail.
You do not need to provide ID when you vote by mail.
Note that the signature on your ballot must match your signature on file with the state.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I don’t have the right ID to vote in Washington?
You have the option to vote by mail if you don’t have a photo ID. Washington does not require ID for mail voting.
If you are at a vote center and can’t present an ID to confirm your identity, you have to cast a provisional ballot.
Provisional ballots make sure eligible voters are not turned away from the polls.
Your ballot will count if your signature matches the one in your voter registration record.
Learn more here! (link to “Vote” section)
Can I use a digital or mobile ID to vote in Washington?
You must present a physical ID to vote in Washington. You cannot use an image, copy, or digital ID when you are voting in person.
Do I need a “REAL ID” to vote in Washington?
You do not need a “REAL ID” to vote in Washington.
REAL ID is a set of national security standards for states to follow when they issue driver’s licenses and state ID cards. Your ID will show a star if it meets REAL ID standards.
Applying for a REAL ID requires you to appear in person with a variety of documents to prove your identity.
Visit the Washington DOL website to find out exactly what is required to get a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or state ID card.