West Virginia voting FAQ
In 2024, votes will be cast on issues and races that will set America’s direction for the coming years. The USA TODAY Network has everything you need to know to make the best choices for yourself and your family at the ballot box.
How do I register to vote in West Virginia?
Online: Use the state’s online portal for voter tasks such as registration, updating your details, checking your status, or adjusting your party affiliation. When submitting your registration online, ensure to provide your driver’s license number or an approved ID card number, along with the last four digits of your Social Security number. A comprehensive list of acceptable IDs can be found on the state elections website.
By mail or in person: You have the option to complete the online registration form or download a blank form, then print, sign, and deliver it to your county clerk’s office via mail or in person. Registration forms are also available at various locations including county clerk’s offices, public libraries, universities, and senior community centers. Alternatively, you can request a registration form to be mailed to you by contacting the state elections office at 304-558-6000 (or toll-free at 866-767-8683).
The deadline for registration is Tuesday, April 23, to participate in the primary election. West Virginia does not allow registration on Primary Election Day.
If you missed the deadline, you have until Oct. 15 to register to vote in the Nov. 5 general election.
Further information on the the 2024 election is available through the West Virginia Secretary of State.
Does West Virginia hold a traditional presidential primary?
Yes, West Virginia will hold a traditional presidential primary for both the Democratic and Republican party on May 14.
When are elections happening in 2024?
Mark your calendars:
Primary Election: Tuesday, May 14
General Election: Tuesday, November 5
What key races are on the ballot this year?
West Virginia voters will decide on crucial races including:
U.S. Senate: One seat
U.S. House: Two seats
Governor
Secretary of State
State Senate: 17 of 34 seats
State House: All 100 seats
Sample ballots for the primary election will be available in newspapers and online at GoVoteWV.com before early voting begins.
What do I need to bring to my polling place?
When heading to the polls, ensure you bring an acceptable form of ID such as a driver’s license, U.S. passport, birth certificate, or voter registration card. Exemptions are available for specific circumstances.
What do I need to know about absentee voting?
If you're a registered voter facing circumstances such as illness, disability, travel, or studying away from your home county, you can vote via absentee ballot. You have until May 8 to request one.
Online: Download and print the application from the designated website.
By phone: Reach out to the state elections office at 304-558-6000 (toll-free: 866-767-8683) to have an application sent to you.
In person: Visit your county clerk’s office to pick up an application.
Return your absentee ballot for the primary election:
In person: You can hand-deliver your completed ballot to your county clerk’s office by the day before Election Day, which is Monday, May 13. Remember, individuals can only hand-deliver up to two ballots.
By mail: Ensure your completed ballot is postmarked by Election Day, Tuesday, May 14, and mailed to your county clerk’s office. It must be received by Monday, May 20, to be counted. If your ballot lacks a postmark, but arrives by Wednesday, May 15, it will still be accepted. Postage is prepaid for your convenience.
Note: West Virginia doesn’t provide drop boxes for ballots.
First-time voters: If this is your first time voting, include a copy of a valid ID with your completed ballot. Remember to place the ID copy in the return envelope, not the secrecy envelope holding your ballot.
You can track your absentee ballot using West Virginia’s online tracking tool.
What about early voting?
Early in-person voting for the primary election begins on Wednesday, May 1, and ends on Saturday, May 11. Stay updated on specific locations and hours by checking the state election website or contacting your county clerk’s office.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: West Virginia voting FAQ
