District of Columbia Absentee Ballot Process

You do not need a reason to vote absentee. There are two ways to cast an absentee ballot. You can vote absentee ballot by mail or cast an in-person absentee ballot at the board of elections office.

You can fill out an absentee ballot request form here.

You may request a mail absentee ballot in writing up to seven days prior to an election. Your absentee ballot must be received by the board of elections office on or before Election Day. The return envelope must be signed in order for your vote to be counted.

You do not need to provide ID if you've already voted in DC at least once. If you're voting for the first time in DC and you did not provide any ID at the time of registration, you must include a copy of your ID with your absentee ballot applications. You may provide either:

• A copy of a current driver's license or other photo ID that shows your name and address
• A copy of a utility bill, bank statement, governement check, paycheck or government document that shows your name and address

Overseas citizens and U.S. military personnel can find information on how to register to vote and request an absentee ballot at the Overseas Vote Foundation.