Voters in Rhode Island need to show photo ID to confirm their identity when voting in person.
If you don’t have an acceptable photo ID, there may be other ways you can confirm your identity.
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the November 3 General Election will be conducted primarily by mail.
Most voters do not need a copy of their ID to vote by mail.
Is out-of-state ID accepted?
No!
You cannot use an ID issued by another state
Is student ID accepted?
Yes!
You can use a student ID issued by educational institutions located in the United States
Is an expired ID accepted?
Sometimes!
You can use your ID if it is expired less than 6 months, but it does not need to have your current address
COVID-19 UPDATE
Rhode Island will send a mail ballot application to all registered voters for the November 3 General Election.
ACCEPTABLE PHOTO ID
You can use the following photo IDs (not expired more than 6 months prior to voting):
If you don’t have one of the photo IDs listed above, you are eligible to receive a Rhode Island Voter ID card from the Secretary of State.
You can use this Voter ID card to cast your ballot. Check the FAQ below to learn more.
If you are a registered voter and do not have a photo ID that is acceptable for voting, you are eligible to receive a Voter ID card from the Rhode Island Secretary of State.
You will need to provide documents to prove your identity in order to receive an ID.
VoteRiders can give you free help to get the documents you need. Get help now!
You do not need a “REAL ID” to vote in Rhode Island.
Your driver’s license or state ID card will show a star if it meets REAL ID requirements under federal law. You may also hear it called a “gold star” ID.
Get in touch with VoteRiders if you have questions or need free help securing ID.
If you are a registered voter and don’t bring an acceptable ID, you may cast a provisional ballot.
You must provide the necessary documents to the Board of Canvassers before close of business on the day after the election.
Otherwise, the Board will compare the signature on your ballot to your signature on file to determine if your ballot counts.
Get in touch with VoteRiders if you have questions or need free help securing ID.
The Rhode Island DMV is open by appointment only.
Hours and locations are listed on the DMV website.
COVID-19 UPDATE
Rhode Island will send a mail ballot application to all registered voters for the November 3 General Election.
Most Rhode Island voters do not need a copy of their ID to vote by mail.
Any registered Rhode Island voter can vote by mail. No excuse is required. Other than for the November 3, 2020 General Election, you must request a mail ballot for every election.
NO!
BUT: If you are voting for the first time in a federal election in Rhode Island, you may need to submit ID. Learn more about federal ID requirements for first-time voters.
If you need a copy and don’t have the means to print one: Get free help printing a copy of your ID.
No, but the signature on your ballot must match your other signatures on file.