Fallon Deatherage-Bradley
News Editor
College students are notorious for not turning out at the polls. Reasons for this vary based on certain cases.
But voting, even in college, only requires three easy steps.
1. Register
This is the first step to voting in completing the voter registration process. In Idaho, same day registration is available, meaning if you’ve never voted before, you can show up at your polling place, complete your registration and vote right there on the spot.
In Idaho, the requirements for becoming a registered voter are U.S. citizenship, residency in Idaho at least 30 days prior to election day, at least 18 years of age and not being a felon who has not had their civil rights restored. In order to register to vote, you will need proof of name and address. This can be in the form of a driver’s license and a utility bill that has your name and address on it.
2. Find your polling place
Finding your polling place has never been easier. The local newspaper typically prints voting locations for all the precincts, but if you don’t know your precincts number this may not be helpful.
On gettothepolls.com, you can type in your street address and they will show you the address of your polling place and you can print directions if you don’t know where to find it.
3. Vote
Before you head to your polling place, it may be a good idea to do some research. Ballots are available to the public before the election so that you can research and there won’t be any surprises when you get to the booth.
Be sure to take your photo ID. In Idaho, if you don’t have it, you can sign an affidavit stating that you are who you say you are, but keep in mind that this will only be available if you’re already registered to vote.
When you get your ballot, head to the booth and make your selections. Take as much time as you want. Don’t feel rushed. Once you’re ready, return your ballot. You will receive a sticker that says you voted.
As you leave your polling place, enjoy the wonderful feeling of knowing you played a vital role in American democracy.
