Rhode Island

Recent Changes Affecting Rhode Island's Voting Laws

Last year, Rhode Island passed a law requiring voter's to show a photo ID to vote. The law takes effect January 1, 2012. Before January 1, 2014, voters, besides the ID’s required in 2014, can provide their birth certificate, social security card, or a government-issued medical card without a photo as ID. After January 1, 2014, the only acceptable forms of ID (must contain a photo) include valid and current:

  • Rhode Island driver’s license or voter ID card;
  • U.S. passport;
  • ID issued by any U.S. educational institution;
  • Any U.S. or Rhode Island government issued ID;
  • Government-issued medical card.

If a voter does not show acceptable ID, they will vote a provisional ballot. The ballot will be counted if the signature on the provisional ballot application matches the signature in the voter registration file.

FELN Guides

Rhode Island Elections Website

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