Voter ID now required at polling places in Iowa

DES MOINES – Secretary of State Paul Pate reminds Iowans that Voter ID is now required before casting a ballot at the polling place. A voter without one of the approved forms of identification may have the voter’s identity attested to by another registered voter in the precinct or may cast a provisional ballot.

The 2018 primary and general elections provided voters and election officials with a “soft rollout” of the Voter ID law, allowing everyone a full election cycle to become accustomed to the new requirements. The full provisions of the Election Modernization and Integrity Act for voting at the polls are now in effect, as of January 1.

“This is about making it easy to vote, but hard to cheat, while ensuring no eligible voter is turned away,” Secretary Pate said. “Voters who do not possess a valid Iowa driver’s license or non-operator’s ID are mailed a free Voter ID card, automatically. If you misplaced it or believe you did not receive the card, just call your county auditor and you will be sent a new one.”

Voters casting ballots without the necessary ID will be offered a provisional ballot and can provide ID up until the deadline for that election, which is generally the following Monday.

“Elections continue year-round in Iowa and it’s important to make sure you are voter ready before heading to the polls,” Secretary Pate said. “This year, for the first time, city and school elections will be merged. I hope that will spur greater participation on the local level. I want all eligible Iowans to make their voices heard.”

Valid forms of ID to show at the polls include:

. Iowa Driver's License

· Iowa Non-Operator's ID

· Military ID

· U.S. Passport

· Tribal ID

· Veteran's ID

· Voter ID Card