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District of Columbia

A State-by-State Guide to Absentee Voting

How do I request an absentee ballot?
You can apply for an absentee ballot online here.
Alternatively, you can download the absentee ballot here.

Where do I send the request?
D.C. Board of Elections and Ethics
441 Fourth St., N.W.
Suite 250 North
Washington, D.C. 20001

What is the deadline for requesting an absentee ballot?
Requests must be received by the Board of Elections and Ethics at least seven days before Election Day:
October 28 for the General Election

Voter registration closes October 6.

What is the voting procedure?
Vote the ballot according to the instructions. No witnesses are required unless you are unable to sign your own ballot. (Also true when requesting a ballot.)

What are the deadlines for voting absentee?
In Person: no later than 4:45 pm the day before Election Day:
November 3 for the General Election

By Mail: postmarked no later than Election Day:
General Election: November 4

What are the election dates and deadlines for 2008?
General Election: November 4
Mail-in voter registration must be postmarked by 30 days before Election Day for the voter to be eligible for that election.

How do I contact the Secretary of State / Election officials?
The District of Columbia Board of Elections and Ethics administers all DC elections.

Charles Lowery, Jr, Chairman
D.C. Board of Elections and Ethics
441 Fourth St., N.W.
Suite 250 North
Washington, D.C. 20001
Tel: 202-727-2525
E-mail: boee@dc.gov
http://www.dcboee.org

Are there requirements for first-time voters?

If you are voting for the first time, you must include a copy of acceptable identification with your absentee ballot.