Frequently Asked Questions

How do I register (Click Here for More Information)?

Complete this Voter Registration Card and mail it to the Board of Elections - 470 Grant Street, Akron, Ohio 44311.
Call the Summit County Board of Elections at (330) 643-5200 for a Voter Registration Card to be mailed to you. Complete it and mail it back.
You may also register to vote at any of the following locations:
- Any Public Library
- Any Public High School or Vocational School
- Any Office of the Bureau of Motor Vehicles
- Office of the Summit County Board of Elections
- Office of the Summit County Treasurer

What if I have moved or changed my name?

If you are already registered to vote in Summit County, update your voter registration by submitting a new Voter Registration Card to the Board of Elections. See registration sites above.

What address may I list as my residence?

Ohio law establishes your residence as the place to which, whenever you are absent, you have the intent to return. A post office box or a business address is not an acceptable address for your residence.

Can a college student vote from their school address?

Yes, if the student establishes that place as his or her residence and registers to vote. Otherwise, the student must vote in his or her home county where they are registered to vote. Refer to the Absentee Voting Information page for details.

Do I declare my political affiliation when I register to vote?

No. Under Ohio law, a person's political party affiliation is determined by choosing to vote a party ballot at a partisan Primary Election.

Where do I vote?

You vote in the precinct in which you reside. You will receive a postcard that will notify you of your ward and/or precinct and voting location. If you have moved, but have not updated your voter registration, call the Summit County Board of Elections (330) 643-5200 for your new precinct and voting location.

How do I vote?

Summit County voters use a precinct count optical scan system. This is new to the county as of May 2, 2006. An election official at your voting location will give you a demonstration when you go to vote.

May I vote on ballot issues in a Primary Election without declaring a political affiliation?

Yes. You may vote on questions and issues on the ballot without voting for candidates of a political party. Ask for an issues only ballot when you go to vote.