Voting in Ohio: Myth vs Fact

Navigating the voting process can often be complex, whether intentionally or not. We're here to clarify the truth behind seven common myths about voting in Ohio (as of this publication).

MYTH 1: “I don’t have an Ohio ID; I cannot vote”

FACT: In Ohio, there are several types of valid photo identification, some of which are free to obtain. You may vote with any of the following, provided they are not expired, contain your photograph, and your name substantially conforms to your name in the Ohio Secretary of State’s Poll List or Poll Book.

• Ohio Driver’s License,

• State of Ohio ID Card (Get One FREE),

• Interim ID form issued by the Ohio BMV,

• U.S. Passport or U.S. Passport Card,

• U.S. Military ID Card,

• Ohio National Guard ID Card, or

• U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs ID Card

Source: Ohio Secretary of State

MYTH 2: “My ID has the wrong address; I cannot vote.”

MYTH 3: “I lost my right to vote by being convicted of a crime”

MYTH 4: “I have to be elderly, homebound, or in the military overseas to vote (absentee) by mail”

MYTH 5: “My voter registration should be fine, I haven’t moved”

MYTH 6: “I’m a college student, I can’t vote while on campus”

MYTH 7: “Why should I vote? It won’t affect the election outcome”