When a Provisional Ballot is Used
An election judge will issue you a provisional ballot at your polling place if:
- Your name does not appear on the lists of registered voters for the precinct.
- Your voting status has been challenged by an election judge, poll watcher or another voter and a majority of election judges agree.
- A court order is issued instructing your polling place to remain open after 7 p.m. (Everyone voting after 7 p.m. must cast provisional ballots if this occurs).
- You are required to show identification because you registered by mail, but you did not bring ID to the polling place on Election Day
*In this instance, you must supply the Clerk's office with a copy of acceptable identification by 7 p.m. the Thursday after Election Day.
- Acceptable forms of identification include:
- a current and valid photo ID
- a copy of a utility bill, bank statement, government check or paycheck
- other government document showing your name and address
Bring the ID to the Clerk's downtown Chicago office (69 W. Washington St., Room 500) or fax a photocopy of your ID to the Clerk's office at (312) 603-9786.