Delaware

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Delaware asks for ID to vote in person. ID is not required to vote by mail.

1 Check ID Rules

Voting in Person

Delaware requests ID to vote in person. You can vote without an ID if you sign a form confirming your identity.

Accepted IDs

You can show:
Must be unexpired 

  • Delaware driver’s license
  • Delaware state ID card
  • US Passport
  • Signed polling place card
  • Signed Social Security card
  • Signed vehicle registration
  • Signed credit card with photo
  • Other proof of identity with photo or signature

Voting by Mail

Absentee ballots in Delaware are only for some voters. 

Reasons you can vote by absentee ballot include:

  • Being away from your election district due to travel, military service, or your job 
  • Physical disability or illness

Check the FAQ “Who can vote absentee in Delaware?” below for the full list of reasons accepted by the state. 

Delaware does not require ID to vote by absentee ballot.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if I don’t have the right ID to vote in Delaware?

If your name is on your polling place’s list of registered voters, you vote a regular ballot if you complete and sign a form (called an “Affirmation of Voter Identity”).

If your name is not listed, you will be asked to sign a form affirming you are registered voter. You will then be issued a provisional ballot that allows you to vote for any federal electionsL

Can I use a digital or mobile ID to vote in Delaware?
Yes, you can use an image or digital ID document to confirm your identity and where you live.
Do I need a “REAL ID” to vote in Delaware?

You do not need a “REAL ID” to vote in Delaware.

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 Delaware DMV website to find out exactly what is required to get a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or state ID card.

Who can vote absentee in Delaware?

In Delaware, you have to give a specific reason for voting by absentee ballot.

The following reasons are accepted:

  • Temporarily living or serving overseas
  • Away from the state due to illness or injury received while serving in the military
  • Serving in the US armed forces, US merchant marines, USO, or American Red Cross
  • Illness or physical disability (temporarily or permanent)
  • Business or job prevents you from going to the polls. This includes:
    • Taking care of my parent, spouse, or child who lives at home and needs constant care due to illness, disability, or injury
    • Being a student
    • Being an eligible person who is in jail
  • Cannot vote on a certain time or day due to religious reasons
  • Away from your election district due to travel
Updated: July 2026