The November 2 City / School election is rapidly approaching and Linn County Elections wants to make sure you have all the information you need prior to casting your vote. Here are the top five things to know:
1. Absentee Voting Options
There are several options available if you are unable to get to the polls on Election Day. Those options include:
- Vote by Mail: Request an absentee ballot be mailed to your house by 5 p.m. on October 18. Ballot request forms are available online, in the Penny Saver, and by calling the Auditor’s Office at 319-892-5300 option 1.
- In Person Early Voting: In person early voting is available weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Linn County Elections Office at 935 2nd Street SW, Cedar Rapids now through November 1.
- Satellite Voting: There are three satellite voting locations available to Linn County voters, including: Lindale Mall, Wellington Heights Church, and IBEW Local 405. Visit the Elections website for hours of operation.
2. Your Polling Location
Linn County voters can find their polling location via the lookup tool on the Elections website.
3. What’s on the Ballot
Linn County voters can view a sample ballot for the election by entering their address into the lookup tool on the Elections website. This tool can also show you the current elected officials for your area.
4. How to Register to Vote
Linn County residents who need to register to vote or update their registration can do so in four basic ways:
- Through the Iowa Department of Transportation when obtaining an Iowa drivers license or non-driver ID
- By mail
- In person at the Linn County Auditor’s Office
- Online via the Iowa Department of Transportation website
- Election Day Registration. If you are new to Linn County or missed the pre-registration deadline, it is still possible to register and vote on Election Day. You must register at your correct polling location. Visit the Election Day Registration webpage for more information.
Learn more about registering to vote on the Elections website.
5. Voter ID is Required
Iowa law requires voters to show an ID when voting absentee in-person and at the polls on Election Day. These are the valid forms of ID:
- Iowa Voter Identification Card (needs to be signed)
- Iowa Driver's License
- Iowa Non-Operator ID
- U.S. Military ID or Veteran ID
- U.S. Passport
- Tribal ID Card/Document
A voter without one of the above forms of ID may have their identity verified by another registered voter in the precinct. The voter may also use Election Day Registration documents.
Additional information is available at the Iowa Secretary of State's website.