Dos and Don’ts for Election Day

THE WOODLANDS, TX – Across the Lone Star State, and particularly in Montgomery County, voting requires adherence to specific state and local rules to ensure your ballot is safely cast.

Woodlands Online has a few primary dos and don’ts for Montgomery County voters heading out to the polls for the Tuesday general election:

The Dos

• DO bring an acceptable photo ID – You must present one of seven state-approved IDs, such as a Texas Driver License, US Passport, Texas Handgun License, or US Military ID.

• DO use alternative ID if you have a reasonable impediment – If you cannot reasonably obtain a photo ID, you can sign a Reasonable Impediment Declaration and bring a supporting document like a certified birth certificate, utility bill, or bank statement.

• DO get in line between 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. – As long as you’re in line by then, polls must remain open until you can cast your ballot.

• DO be patient – The wait time for early voting stretched out to three hours or more; bring a book or earbuds to help pass the time.

The Don’ts

• DON'T forget to check your registration – Texas does not offer same-day voter registration on Election Day. You must be fully registered at least 30 days prior to an election to participate.

• DON’T wear or carry anything that can be viewed as campaign material – This includes hats, shirts, and other items that identify a candidate, party, or political ideal.

• DON’T use electronic devices to help you vote – Once you’re within 100 feet of the polling location, phones and tablets must be turned off. You can carry in any printed material you like, whether you print it from home or take materials from candidates and their helpers.

• DON’T argue with polling officials – It’s a pretty safe bet that the certified polling officials know more about election law than you do. There are ways to air your grievances without holding up the line.

Your Polling Location

Unlike early voting, your authorized precinct polling location is the only place you can cast your ballot. If you don’t know where your precinct location is, simply visit elections.mctx.org/vrlookup.asp and type in the requested information.

Stay tuned to Woodlands Online for updates and results as they occur!