Election Day is nearly here, and Iowans will soon head to the polls to cast their ballots in the Nov. 3 general election.
Before casting your ballot in races for federal, state and local offices, here's what to know about some of the rules at Iowa polling places.
What time do the polls in Iowa open on Election Day?
Polling places in Iowa open at 7 a.m. and close at 8 p.m.
What do I need to bring to my polling place?
Registered voters must present a valid form of identification to vote.
Valid forms of identification include:
How to register at the polls on Election Day
Iowa allows voters to register to vote on Election Day at the polling location corresponding to their address. To do so, voters must prove their identity and address. A valid Iowa driver's license with the voter's current address can meet both requirements.
The following documents also may serve as proof of residence if they are less than 45 days old:
Voting do's and don'ts for Election Day in Iowa
Taking a celebratory selfie with your ballot is permitted in Iowa as long as it doesn't interfere with other voters or the operations of the polling place. Make sure you don't include anyone else in your photo.
Iowa allows voters to wear campaign buttons or clothing when they vote. They must leave as soon as they are done voting, according to the Iowa Secretary of State's website. Those working for the county auditor's office, precinct election officials, poll watchers and observers at satellite voting locations cannot wear political apparel or have campaign materials at the polling place.
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Campaigning and electioneering of any kind is not permitted at polling places. The Iowa Secretary of State considers loitering at a polling place while wearing political apparel to be electioneering.
Iowa law makes it first-degree election misconduct to intimidate, threaten or coerce a voter — or attempt to do so — to pressure the voter into registering to vote or voting, or to keep them from registering or voting. It is a felony punishable by up to five years in prison. Other violations, such as loitering and electioneering within 300 feet of a polling place, are considered misdemeanors.
If you believe you witnessed election misconduct, you can fill out the Iowa Secretary of State's Voter Hotline Form or call 1-888-767-8683.
Can I use my phone while voting?
Yes, nothing in Iowa law forbids using a phone while voting to research candidates. The Linn County Auditor's Office previously told the Register voters can research candidates at the polls so long as it doesn't disrupt other people voting.
So, don't plan on FaceTiming, taking a call on speakerphone or watching videos while in the booth.
Can I bring my children with me into the voting booth?
Yes, children are allowed into the voting booth when accompanied by a parent.
Do Iowa employers have to give workers time off to vote?
Iowa employees who do not have two consecutive hours outside of work while polls are open may be entitled to paid time off to vote, according to Iowa law. The request must be made in writing before Election Day, and the employer may decide when the time is taken.
Can I get help voting?
Voters who need help marking their ballot may receive assistance from precinct election officials or anyone they choose, except their employer or representatives of their employer or union, according to the Iowa Secretary of State's website.
Voters unable to enter a polling place because of a disability may vote curbside from their vehicle. Advance notice is not required, but the Iowa Secretary of State recommends calling the county auditor in advance or bringing someone to notify precinct officials.
Kate Kealey is the growth and development reporter for the Register. Reach her at [email protected] or follow her on Twitter at @Kkealey17.
Cooper Worth is a service/trending reporter for the Des Moines Register. Reach him at [email protected] or follow him on X @CooperAWorth.