Wisconsin General Election
Last update: Dec 05, 2024 00:11 a.m. EST
Last update: Dec 04, 2024 21:34 p.m. UTC
Can I trust this information?
This election guide is researched, written, and updated by Democracy Works, a non-partisan 501(c)(3) registered non-profit organization, to inform voters via TurboVote and other partners. The information in these guides originates from official sources. The guides also link to authoritative state and local resources to provide additional information.
How do I report an issue with the information provided on this page?
Drop us a line to report an issue, share feedback or ask questions about the voting information on this page.
Registration Summary
Wisconsin offers online voter registration. You can register by mail to vote in Wisconsin by printing a voter registration form, filling it out, and mailing it to your local election office. You can also register to vote in person if you prefer.
Voting Summary
Wisconsin allows any voter to request a ballot by mail. You can also vote in person. Wisconsin offers early voting.
How do election officials keep voting secure?
Election officials in your state and community are working hard to ensure the integrity of our elections. All states have implemented security measures to protect the vote.
Visit the Wisconsin Elections Commission website to learn more about election security. If you’re interested in getting involved with elections in your community, contact your local election office to learn about opportunities in your area.
What can I do if I've already voted?
This Election Has Passed
- Visit the Wisconsin website to find information about election security.
- Check election results from The Associated Press.
How do I vote in person?
Where can I vote on Election Day?
You can look up where to vote on Wisconsin's site.
Can I vote in-person absentee?
- Yes, in-person absentee voting is offered in this election. You can choose whether to vote on Election Day or during the absentee voting period, whichever is easier for you. This can be especially helpful if it would be difficult or not possible for you to vote on Election Day. In-person absentee voting locations may be less crowded, as well.
- Learn more about in-person absentee voting in Wisconsin.
- In-person absentee voting locations may be different from where you vote on Election Day. Check Wisconsin’s site to find where to vote absentee in person.
What do I need to bring?
You will need to show a photo ID to vote in Wisconsin.
An acceptable photo ID is not required to contain a current address. These photo IDs are acceptable and can be unexpired or expired after the date of the most recent general election:
- Wisconsin DOT-issued driver license, even if driving privileges are revoked or suspended, with or without a star in the right-hand corner
- Wisconsin DOT-issued identification card, with or without a star in the right-hand corner
- Wisconsin DOT-issued identification card or driver license without a photo issued under the religious exemption
- military ID card issued by a U.S. uniformed service
- U.S. passport
The following photo ID is also acceptable for voting purposes, and can be expired before the date of the most recent general election:
- identification card issued by a federally recognized Indian tribe in Wisconsin
- photo identification card issued by a Wisconsin accredited university or college that contains date of issuance, expiration date no later than two years after issuance, and signature of student (must be accompanied by a separate document that proves enrollment if the student ID is expired)
The following photo IDs are also acceptable for voting purposes, but must be unexpired:
- veteran's photo identification card issued by the Veterans Health Administration of the federal Department of Veterans Affairs
- certificate of naturalization that was issued not earlier than two years before the date of an election at which it is presented
- driving receipt issued by Wisconsin DOT (valid for 45 days)
- identification card receipt issued by Wisconsin DOT (valid for 45 days)
- temporary identification card receipt issued by Wisconsin DOT through the Identification Petition Process (IDPP) (valid for 60 days)
Voters without ID: If you are unable to provide photo ID, you will be able to vote a provisional ballot. Your provisional ballot will not count unless you provide an acceptable photo ID to the poll workers by 8:00 p.m. on Election Day or to your municipal clerk in person by 4:00 p.m. the Friday after the election.
Can I register to vote online?
- Wisconsin offers online voter registration.
- To register using the Wisconsin online voter registration system, you are required to provide the number from your Wisconsin driver’s license or Wisconsin identification card issued by the Wisconsin Department of Motor Vehicles. If you don’t have a Wisconsin-issued driver’s license or identification card, you can still submit a voter registration application by mail or in person.
Watch this video about online voter registration from the Wisconsin Elections Commission.
Can I vote early?
Yes, Wisconsin does offer early voting, which in Wisconsin is called in-person absentee voting.
- You can choose whether to vote on Election Day or during the in-person absentee voting period, whichever is easier for you. This can be especially helpful if it would be difficult or not possible for you to vote on Election Day. Voting locations may be less crowded, as well.
When can I vote early?
- In Wisconsin, dates and times vary by where you live. Find when to vote.
Where can I vote early?
- Early voting locations may be different from where you vote on Election Day. Check Wisconsin's site to find where to vote early.
What do I need to bring?
You will need to show a photo ID to vote in Wisconsin.
An acceptable photo ID is not required to contain a current address. These photo IDs are acceptable and can be unexpired or expired after the date of the most recent general election:
- Wisconsin DOT-issued driver license, even if driving privileges are revoked or suspended, with or without a star in the right-hand corner
- Wisconsin DOT-issued identification card, with or without a star in the right-hand corner
- Wisconsin DOT-issued identification card or driver license without a photo issued under the religious exemption
- military ID card issued by a U.S. uniformed service
- U.S. passport
The following photo ID is also acceptable for voting purposes, and can be expired before the date of the most recent general election:
- identification card issued by a federally recognized Indian tribe in Wisconsin
- photo identification card issued by a Wisconsin accredited university or college that contains date of issuance, expiration date no later than two years after issuance, and signature of student (must be accompanied by a separate document that proves enrollment if the student ID is expired)
The following photo IDs are also acceptable for voting purposes, but must be unexpired:
- veteran's photo identification card issued by the Veterans Health Administration of the federal Department of Veterans Affairs
- certificate of naturalization that was issued not earlier than two years before the date of an election at which it is presented
- driving receipt issued by Wisconsin DOT (valid for 45 days)
- identification card receipt issued by Wisconsin DOT (valid for 45 days)
- temporary identification card receipt issued by Wisconsin DOT through the Identification Petition Process (IDPP) (valid for 60 days)
Voters without ID: If you are unable to provide photo ID, you will be able to vote a provisional ballot. Your provisional ballot will not count unless you provide an acceptable photo ID to the poll workers by 8:00 p.m. on Election Day or to your municipal clerk in person by 4:00 p.m. the Friday after the election.
Can I submit voter registration forms by mail?
Use the Wisconsin voter registration form
You can register to vote using the Wisconsin voter registration form. Be sure to read the instructions carefully and fill it out completely.
Send the completed form to your local election office.
Provide your unexpired Wisconsin driver license or DOT-issued ID card number.
- If you do not have one of these ID numbers, provide the last four digits of your Social Security number (SSN).
- If you do not have one of these ID numbers or SSN, you will still be able to register to vote.
You must also provide Proof of Residence documentation when registering. All Proof of Residence documents must show your name and current residential address. Acceptable forms include but are not limited to:
- current and valid State of Wisconsin Driver License or State ID card
- any official ID card or license issued by the Wisconsin government
Find additional forms of proof of residence from the Wisconsin Election Commission.
Send the completed form to your local election office.
Watch this video about by mail registration from the Wisconsin Elections Commission.
How do I vote by mail?
In Wisconsin, any registered voter can request to get a ballot by mail. Request your absentee ballot online by Oct 31.
What should I do if I don’t get my ballot?
If you don’t receive your ballot in the mail, then contact your local election office.
How do I return my ballot?
- Read the instructions carefully on how to mark and return your ballot.
- You can return your ballot by mail or by visiting a dedicated drop off location.
- Find a ballot drop off location near you.
- If you choose to return your ballot by mail, the United States Postal Service (USPS) recommends that voters mail their completed ballots at least one week before the due date. Find a USPS location near you.
What do I need to do if I’ve moved?
What’s on your ballot depends on where you live, so your voter registration is tied to your exact address. If you’ve moved, you need to re-register with your new address.
Can I register to vote on Election Day?
Yes, you can register at your voting location on Election Day.
Can I submit voter registration forms in person?
- You can register to vote in person. Contact your local election office for information on when and where to register to vote.
- You can also register to vote and cast a ballot in person on Election Day.
- Learn more by visiting the Wisconsin Elections Commission website or contacting your local election office.
Watch this video about in person registration from the Wisconsin Elections Commission.
What are key deadlines for this election?
Registration deadlines
- In-person at voting location on Election Day : Nov 5
- Online : Oct 16 by 11:59 p.m. CDT
- By mail (postmarked by) : Oct 16
Absentee ballot deadlines
- Request ballot (received by) : Oct 31 by 5:00 p.m. CDT
- Return ballot by mail (received by) : Nov 5 by 8:00 p.m. CST
- Return ballot in person : Nov 5 by 8:00 p.m. CST
Do I need to bring an ID to vote in person?
You will need to show a photo ID to vote in Wisconsin.
An acceptable photo ID is not required to contain a current address. These photo IDs are acceptable and can be unexpired or expired after the date of the most recent general election:
- Wisconsin DOT-issued driver license, even if driving privileges are revoked or suspended, with or without a star in the right-hand corner
- Wisconsin DOT-issued identification card, with or without a star in the right-hand corner
- Wisconsin DOT-issued identification card or driver license without a photo issued under the religious exemption
- military ID card issued by a U.S. uniformed service
- U.S. passport
The following photo ID is also acceptable for voting purposes, and can be expired before the date of the most recent general election:
- identification card issued by a federally recognized Indian tribe in Wisconsin
- photo identification card issued by a Wisconsin accredited university or college that contains date of issuance, expiration date no later than two years after issuance, and signature of student (must be accompanied by a separate document that proves enrollment if the student ID is expired)
The following photo IDs are also acceptable for voting purposes, but must be unexpired:
- veteran's photo identification card issued by the Veterans Health Administration of the federal Department of Veterans Affairs
- certificate of naturalization that was issued not earlier than two years before the date of an election at which it is presented
- driving receipt issued by Wisconsin DOT (valid for 45 days)
- identification card receipt issued by Wisconsin DOT (valid for 45 days)
- temporary identification card receipt issued by Wisconsin DOT through the Identification Petition Process (IDPP) (valid for 60 days)
Voters without ID: If you are unable to provide photo ID, you will be able to vote a provisional ballot. Your provisional ballot will not count unless you provide an acceptable photo ID to the poll workers by 8:00 p.m. on Election Day or to your municipal clerk in person by 4:00 p.m. the Friday after the election.
How do I get help registering to vote?
TurboVote can help you make your plan to vote. They can help you start the registration process, learn how to vote by mail, send you election reminders, and more.
Who can register to vote?
To register in Wisconsin you must:
- be a United States citizen
- be a resident of Wisconsin and have resided at the registration address for at least 28 days prior to the election
- be 18 years old on or before Election Day
- not have been convicted of treason, felony or bribery, or if you have, your civil rights have been restored after completion of your sentence or a pardon
- not have been found by a court to be incapable of understanding the objective of the electoral process
- not make or benefit from a bet or wage depending on the result of an election
- not have voted at any other location, if registering on Election Day
Watch this video about who can register to vote from the Wisconsin Elections Commission.
How do I vote if I'm in the military or live overseas?
Active-duty military, their families, and overseas citizens can register to vote and request their absentee ballot using the Federal Post Card Application (FPCA). The FPCA process is done by mail, but your state may offer other options to request and return ballots. Please contact your local election office for more information about delivery and return methods, including email, fax, and state online portals. To follow the FPCA process:
- Fill out the Federal Post Card Application (FPCA), or download a copy. Your local election office may have questions, so please provide an email address or phone number where they can reach you.
- Send the application to your local election office.
- It is never too early to submit an FPCA! Please do so as soon as possible.
- Please fill out and send back your ballot as soon as you receive it.
- States begin mailing absentee ballots at least 45 days before Election Day. If you haven't received your ballot by 30 days before Election Day, contact your local election office.
If your ballot does not arrive after you submit your FPCA, contact your local election office first. Then:
- You can still vote using the Federal Write-In Absentee Ballot (FWAB). Print, sign, and mail your FWAB to your local election office.
- If you mail a FWAB and then receive your regular absentee ballot, you should complete and mail your absentee ballot also. Election officials will ensure that only one ballot is counted.
The Federal Voting Assistance Program offers additional information on military and overseas voting in Wisconsin. You can also call 1-800-438-VOTE (8683) or email vote@fvap.gov
How can I check my voter registration status?
You can look up your voter registration record and verify that your information is correct using Wisconsin's voter registration lookup tool.
How do I contact my state election office?
Which election office should I contact?
- In Wisconsin, your local election office runs the elections in your area. They can help you with questions about registering to vote, voting by mail, and local elections.
- The Elections Commission oversees elections and election administration in Wisconsin. They can help you with questions about voting in your state, election security, or issues you might have at the polls. If you have concerns about voter intimidation, reach out immediately.
How do I contact my local election office?
Visit your state’s site to find your local election office.
Are the results reported on election night official?
No. While many of the votes are counted and reported on election night, election officials still need time to process all the ballots that were submitted so every eligible vote can be counted. This includes provisional ballots and ballots returned by mail. The official results are determined and certified days or weeks after Election Day, depending on state laws.
You can track election night results through The Associated Press website.
How are official election results determined?
Official election results are determined through a process called canvassing. During the canvass, state and local election officials review every ballot cast, including ballots submitted in person on Election Day, ballots returned during early voting, provisional ballots, mail ballots, and ballots from uniformed and overseas citizens. Officials also review documentation completed by poll workers to confirm all voting procedures were followed correctly during the election.
If any irregularities are identified during the canvass, election officials may investigate further depending on state law.
How are election results certified?
Certification is the confirmation of official election results. Once the canvass is complete, election officials issue a statement that every vote has been counted correctly and the final election results are accurate.
When will my state’s results be certified?
State election results in Wisconsin must be certified by the Wisconsin Elections Commission by December 1, 2024.
Are there any other ways for election officials to check the accuracy of election results?
Election officials may use post-election audits and recounts to confirm the accuracy of election results.
A post-election audit is a review conducted after an election in addition to the canvass to ensure votes were counted correctly. Most states conduct some form of post-election audit, although the procedures, requirements, and timing vary. Audits may be conducted before or after election results are certified. If any irregularities are identified during an audit, election officials may investigate further depending on state law.
A recount is an additional count of the votes cast in an election to confirm that the results are accurate. Recounts may be used when races are close or if irregularities are found during a canvass or audit. Depending on state law, recounts may occur automatically or be requested by voters, candidates, or a court order.
What is the Electoral College?
The Electoral College is the system used to elect the President and Vice President of the United States. Each state has a set number of electors based on its representation in Congress. When you vote in a presidential election, you’re actually voting for presidential electors chosen by a candidate’s political party.
Electors will meet in their respective states on December 17, 2024, to cast their votes for President and Vice President. These votes will be recorded and sent to Congress to be counted. A candidate needs at least 270 out of 538 electoral votes to win the presidency.
Visit the United States Election Assistance Commission website to learn more about the Electoral College.
When are the electoral votes counted?
Congress will meet on January 6, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. ET to count the electoral votes. The votes are tallied in a joint session of the House and Senate, with the Vice President presiding. The results are then announced, officially declaring the next president and vice president.