Can I change my polling place? I have to vote several blocks away, but other people vote at a location closer to my house.
No, you must vote at the polling place assigned according to your residence address. Precinct boundaries are based on Census block boundaries, which in turn are based on defined street or geographical boundaries. A Census block is usually comprised of one or more residential or commercial blocks, and precincts typically are comprised of multiple Census blocks. Sometimes, a precinct boundary runs right down the center of a street.

In an ideal world, polling places would be centrally located within a precinct's boundaries. But because of the lack of available facilities in some areas of the City, this is not always possible. Sometimes we even have to designate a polling place outside of a precinct's boundaries because there are no other suitable facilities. We need a location that is open to the public and handicapped accessible, and that is available to accommodate the precinct's voters on all Election Days. Whenever possible, we try to locate polling places in public facilities such as schools or recreation centers.

Virginia law requires voters to vote at the polling place designated for the precinct in which they live. Although another polling place may be closer to your house, we cannot change your voting location.

Show All Answers

1. What information do I need to register?
2. Do I have to register with my political party preference?
3. Do I have to register for each election?
4. What should I do if I move or change my name after I register?
5. Can I transfer my registration from another state to Virginia?
6. Where will I vote?
7. Can I change my polling place? I have to vote several blocks away, but other people vote at a location closer to my house.
8. When do the polls open and close?
9. Do I have to show identification to vote?
10. Do I have to show identification to register to vote?
11. When are general elections?
12. What is a party primary?
13. Can anyone vote in primary elections?
14. What is a special election?
15. What do I do if I'm not able to go to the polls on Election Day?
16. When can I apply for an absentee ballot?
17. How do I get a ballot mailed to me?
18. When will I receive my ballot?
19. How do I mark and return the ballot?
20. How does Absentee and Early Voting Work?
21. What if I am hospitalized or called out of town before the election but after the absentee ballot deadline?
22. What if I am living overseas?