Idaho Voter Guide — New Voters

Quick, accessible steps to register, find your polling place, request absentee ballots, and research candidates & issues across Idaho.

1. How to Register to Vote

Who can register, what ID you need, and the fastest ways to sign up.

  • Online: Use the official state registration portal (recommended if you have an Idaho ID).
  • By mail or in person: Download and print the Idaho voter registration form, fill it out, and mail or bring it to your county clerk.
  • Same-day registration: Idaho allows registration in person at your polling place on Election Day if you missed the deadline.

What you'll usually need: valid photo ID and proof of residence (driver's license, state ID, utility bill, lease, etc.).

Want the registration form? Use the button below.

Go to VoteIdaho.gov Registration PDF

2. Where & How to Vote

Options: vote in-person on Election Day, early in-person voting where available, or request an absentee (mail) ballot.

  1. Find your polling place — use the state polling-place lookup with your address (polls typically open 8:00 AM–8:00 PM on Election Day but verify locally).
  2. Early voting — many counties offer early in-person voting; check your county clerk's website for locations and hours.
  3. Vote by mail (absentee) — any registered Idaho voter may request an absentee ballot; note deadlines for requesting and returning your ballot.

Find My Polling Place Absentee Application (PDF)

3. Research Issues & Candidates

Reliable sources help you make an informed choice. Use the official voter pamphlet and nonpartisan resources below.

  • Official Voter Pamphlet — published by the Secretary of State with candidate statements, ballot measures, and sample ballots.
  • VOTE411.org — enter your address to see candidate profiles, local races, and polling info.
  • League of Women Voters — Idaho — local voter education and nonpartisan guides to issues.

Official publications & voter pamphlets VOTE411 — candidate info League of Women Voters — Idaho

4. Make a Plan — Checklist

  • Confirm your voter registration status.
  • Decide whether you'll vote in person or by mail.
  • If voting by mail: request your absentee ballot early and return it before the county deadline.
  • Bring acceptable ID to the polling place if you register in person.
  • Bring a mask and plan transportation if needed.

Tip: Print your sample ballot (from your county website) and mark choices ahead of time to save time at the polls.

5. County Contacts & Help

If something goes wrong or you have questions, contact your county clerk or the Idaho Secretary of State's Elections Division.

  • Idaho Secretary of State — Elections Division: main site with statewide resources.
  • Your County Clerk: search your county website for office hours, early voting sites, and local deadlines.

Secretary of State — Elections