Alaska

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Alaska requests ID to vote in person. If you don’t have an accepted ID, there is another way to confirm your identity. Check below for your options! You need to provide ID information when you request an absentee ballot and when you return it.

1 Check ID Rules

Voting in Person

Alaska requests ID to vote in person. You can vote and sign a “questioned ballot” if you don’t have an accepted ID.

Accepted IDs

Show identification with one of the following:
Must be unexpired or show no expiration date

  • Name and signature 
  • Name and address

Common examples include: 

  • Alaska Voter ID card 
  • Driver’s license or state ID card issued by any state
  • Hunting or fishing license issued by any state

Photo ID:
Must be unexpired 

  • US passport or passport card 
  • Student ID
  • Military ID
  • Other photo ID

Document with your name and address:
Must be current 

  • Utility bill 
  • Bank statement
  • Paycheck
  • Government check
  • Other government document

Voting by Mail

Any registered voter can request an absentee ballot in Alaska. You don’t have to give a reason for not voting in person.

A copy of your ID is not required to vote by absentee ballot.

Requesting Your Absentee Ballot

Apply for your absentee ballot online or submit a paper application form. 

You will be asked to give one of the following numbers: 

  • Last 4 digits of your Social Security number
  • Alaska driver’s license number
  • Alaska state ID card number

There is a checkbox on the paper application form if you don’t have one of these numbers. You might be contacted for more information if you check this box.

Returning Your Absentee Ballot 

You don’t have to include a copy of ID with your completed ballot. 

You must sign your ballot envelope and provide one of the following: 

  • Voter Number
  • Alaska driver’s license number
  • Alaska state ID card number
  • Date of Birth
  • Last 4 digits of your Social Security number

Your ballot must also be signed by an adult witness.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

You have the option to vote by mail if you don’t have the right ID to vote in person. Alaska does not require ID for mail voting.

If you vote in person and don’t bring an accepted identification, you can vote a “questioned ballot.” 

A questioned ballot is a normal ballot. You need to sign a questioned ballot register and complete a questioned ballot envelope with your information.

A review board determines if your questioned ballot is counted. You will be informed if it is rejected or partially counted.

Learn more here!  (link to “Vote” section)  

Can I use a digital or mobile ID to vote in Alaska?

You must present a physical ID to vote in Alaska. You cannot use an image, copy, or digital ID when you are voting in person.

Do I need a “REAL ID” to vote in Alaska?

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

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