Federal voters would face photo identification requirements when casting ballots

Election officials would require accepted physical photo identification before giving an in-person voter a regular ballot. The requirement would cover in-person voting in federal elections. Voters without identification could cast a provisional ballot, which is held while officials check eligibility. They would need to present accepted identification or a state-provided sworn statement that a religious objection to photographs prevents them from having it. Accepted identification would include valid state driver’s licenses or motor vehicle agency identification cards, U.S. passports, military identification, and Tribal photo identification; state and Tribal cards must show expiration dates. The three-day deadline would run from when the voter casts the provisional ballot.

Voters casting ballots other than in person would submit an identification copy or use the stated alternative. The rules would cover federal election ballots cast other than in person. The alternative would require the last four Social Security number digits and a state-provided sworn statement that reasonable efforts failed to obtain an identification copy. Exceptions would cover absent uniformed services voters and certain voters entitled to vote other than in person under federal voting-accessibility law. If enacted, the requirements would apply to federal elections held on or after the enactment date.

State and local officials would provide free access to identification-copying equipment where practical and notify voter registration applicants about the rules. The copying service would let people copy accepted photo identification, and notices would reach people registering to vote in federal elections. Free copying access at state and local government buildings would be required only to the extent practical. Online registration systems would display the notice before applicants finish registering. These duties would take effect upon enactment.