Guide
for First-Time Voters
Congratulations on being a part one of America’s greatest rights! Below are tips
to help you prepare and know what to expect going into the polls.
Find Your Polling Place
You can find your polling place online by visiting the Voter Information Portal.
Your polling place is also listed on your voter confirmation card that you received
from the county election official after registering.
Know When Polling Places Open and Close
In South Dakota, polls are open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Bring Identification
All voters who appear at a polling place for the first time must show proof of identification.
Approved forms of photo identification include:
- South Dakota driver’s license or nondriver ID card
- U.S. government photo ID
- U.S. Armed Forces ID
- Student photo ID from a South Dakota high school or South Dakota accredited institution
of higher education
- Tribal photo ID
If you do not have a photo ID, you can sign a personal identification affidavit.
If you are voting for the first time and intend to vote by absentee ballot, please
visit our absentee voter page.
If you do not bring your ID on Election Day, do not worry, you may fill out a personal
identification affidavit and still be allowed to vote.
Confirmation
You are not registered to vote until your application has been processed and accepted
by your county election official. If accepted, the county election official will
send you a confirmation card. If you do not receive a confirmation card within 14
days of the date you submit this application, contact your county election official.
Getting Assistance While Voting
Voters who have a disability, have physical limitations or have limited English
proficiency can ask for assistance at the polling place. Voters may also contact
their county election official before Election Day to ask for assistance.
Finding Out More Information
Please call (605)773-3537.