Michigan Elections FAQ: Do you need ID to vote or register to vote?

Is ID required to register in Michigan?

Michigan residents may register to vote online, by mail, or in person, but must do so in person within 14 days of the election.

• To shop online you will need a valid driver’s license or identity card.
• At the post office, you will be asked for your driver's license/ID number or the last four digits of your social security number. If you don't have these, you can still register, but you will have to sign an affidavit stating that you are a U.S. citizen.
• If you appear in person, you will be asked to provide photo identification. If you do not have one, you may sign an affidavit confirming your citizenship and eligibility.

“After each type of voter registration, multiple audits are conducted to identify and correct any accidental registrations,” said Michigan's Secretary of State. More information can be found here.

Do you need ID to vote in Michigan?

When you vote in Michigan, you will be asked for photo identification at the polling place. This can be a driver's license, state identification card, concealed carry license or military photo ID. Governor Whitmer signed a law last year that expanded the list of accepted photo IDs to include a high school or college photo ID, a U.S. passport or a tribal ID.

If you do not have a photo ID or forget to bring it to the polling place, you will be required to sign an affidavit stating that you do not have your ID with you. After signing, you can cast your vote and your ballot will be counted as usual.

Residents who sign an affidavit are asked to provide their name and home address and are warned that making false statements constitutes perjury. Even if your driver's license or identification card has expired, you can still vote by signing an affidavit.