Updated June 03, 2022
A North Dakota voter registration is a process that the state has deemed unnecessary. In fact, North Dakota is the only state that does not require voter registration of its residents. Instead, voters identify themselves at their polling stations on Election Day and, if they are voting for the first time, provide proof of birth date and proof of residency. Once someone has voted, their name will be put into their precinct’s voting list, after which point they need only provide a valid form of identification in order to vote. Accepted forms of identification are a current driver’s license or photo ID card, tribal ID, or a long-term care certificate. If a voter cannot provide an acceptable form of ID at their polling station, they can still vote by signing a voter’s affidavit and confirming their identity and/or address by mail. People voting for the first time, who have recently changed addresses, or who simply wish to vote by mail can fill out an Absentee Ballot to participate in early voting and have their address registered. A change of address can also be performed online or in person through the Department of Transport.
Check Your Voting Status – https://vip.sos.nd.gov/WhereToVoteID.aspx?tab=VoterLookup&ptlPKID=7&ptlhPKID=50
Deadline – Ballots that are sent by mail must be postmarked for Election Day.
Find a Polling Place – https://vip.sos.nd.gov/wheretovote.aspx
Voter ID (§16.1-05-07, §16.1-01-04.1) – When voting, North Dakota residents must present either a driver’s license, a state-issued photo ID card, a tribal ID, or they must sign a Voter’s Affidavit. If a person’s ID is expired or does not display their address, they will also be required to present proof of address such as a utility bill, bank statement, or paycheck.
How to Request an Absentee Ballot
Step 1 – Obtain the North Dakota Absentee Ballot Request Form.
Step 2 – Select the type of election that you are requesting an absentee ballot for before providing the following personal information:
- Full name
- Date of birth
- Phone number
- ID type
- ID number
- Home address
- Mailing address (if different from home address)
- Signature
- The date
Step 3 – If the voter is unable to sign the document, they must make a mark where indicated and print their name. Below that, provide the signature of the person assisting the voter.
Step 4 – If the applicant is without ID, they must have another qualified elector testify to their qualifications by filling out the “Applicant Without ID” section of the form. If the voter is a military professional or overseas voter, they will need to select their situation from the three (3) options given below “Active Military and Overseas Voter.” Beneath that, they can also provide their preferred delivery method.
Step 5 – Once this form has been completed, it should be sent to the voter’s county office or elections office.