NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — Deadlines for the 2020 election are quickly approaching. Here's what Tennessee voters need to know about the election on November 3.
Tennessee Secretary of State Tre Hargett says the state is taking all the necessary precautions to keep voters and poll workers safe during the COVID-19 pandemic. He also asks voters to wear facial coverings when voting in person. In addition to equipping poll workers with PPE, he said they’re also implementing social distancing guidelines and reducing touch points for voters.
Important deadlines:
- Last day to register to vote in the General Election: Monday, October 5, 2020
- Last day to request an absentee ballot: Tuesday, October 27, 2020
- Early voting: Wednesday, October 14 – Thursday, October 29, 2020
Important links:
- Click here for more COVID-19 election information
- Click here to register to vote
- Click here to find out if you're registered to vote
- Click here to request an absentee ballot
- Click here to find your county election commission
Voting in person? Here’s what you’ll need at the polls:
All voters must present a federal or Tennessee state ID with the voter’s name and photograph, whether voting early or on Election Day unless you're exempt (read more about exemptions here).
What IDs are acceptable?
The state says any of the following IDs may be used, even if expired:
- Tennessee driver license with your photo
- United States Passport
- Photo ID issued by the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security
- Photo ID issued by the federal or Tennessee state government
- United States Military photo ID
- Tennessee handgun carry permit with your photo
What IDs are not acceptable?
College student IDs and photo IDs not issued by the federal or Tennessee state government are not acceptable. If you are unsure or have questions about your photo ID, contact your county election commission or the Division of Elections at 1-877-850-4959.
You can also get a free photo ID to vote from the Department of Safety and Homeland Security at any participating driver service center across the state. Click here to read more about what you'll need to provide to Homeland Security.
What's on the ballot: 2020 November General Election candidates
Hargett also says they would like to have an additional 2,000 – 2,500 poll workers this year to help count absentee ballots. Click here for more information on how to become a poll official.
Additional voting links:
Download the GoVoteTN App here
Voter registration information lookup and absentee ballot status tracker
