For those registered to vote in New York State the answer is complex. Repeat voters are not required to present identification. However, first time voters may be asked to provide identification the first time they vote.
Per Ballotpedia: https://ballotpedia.org/Voter_ID_in_New_York
New York does not require voters to present identification while voting. However, if a voter did not provide valid identification at the time of registration, they must show identification at the polling place when voting for the first time.
Forms of ID that are accepted include:
- A current, valid photo ID – including but not limited to a drivers’ license or DMV-issued non-driver photo ID. (a student ID may not be considered enough proof)
- A current utility bill, bank statement, government check, paycheck, or other government document with the voter’s name and address.
Students voting for the first time using their campus address should plan to bring their student ID and any documentation they have that shows their name and campus address with them to the polls.
Those who registered using on-line registration options are likely to be asked to provide ID the first time they vote.
If I don’t have the required ID can I still vote in NY?
Yes, voters who are unable to provide identification have the right to cast an affidavit ballot. You can ask for that at your polling place. Affidavit ballots are counted once the county election board researches and supports the claim the voter makes in their oath on the ballot envelope. You should be provided with a website or phone number where you can check to see whether your ballot was counted.
What about Other States?
You can check with your state’s Board of Elections to see what the voter ID rules are for your home state.
For more information about registering to vote, to check your registration status, or for information about absentee ballots go to vote.gov.
For more election information go to: https://libguides.ithaca.edu/polticomm