Voter Registration & Resources

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Supporting Citizens

Rely on us for the latest on election details and resources. Several Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh branches even serve as polling places for their communities, and all of our locations continue to offer in-person library services during their regularly scheduled hours.

Voting at the Polls: What to Expect

Polls are open in Pennsylvania on Election Day from 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM, and you can arrive any time during that window. If you are in line when the polls close, stay in line. You are entitled to vote.

    • Check-In. Check-in with a poll worker when you arrive at your polling place.
        • Show ID. If you are a first–time voter, or this is your first time voting at this location, you’ll need to present an approved form of ID.
        • Sign the roster. Sign the voter roster list next to your name.
        • Request accommodations. If you need any accommodations, tell a poll worker so they can help. Learn more about accessible voting at vote.pa.gov.
    • Mark Your ballot. You will be given a paper ballot to fill in by hand, or a poll worker will show you to an available ballot marking device. Learn more about Allegheny County’s Voting Systems.
    • Cast Your ballot: If you filled out a paper ballot by hand, review your selections and submit your vote by inserting your paper ballot into the ballot scanner. If you used a ballot marking device, review your choices, touch PRINT CARD to print your ballot, and submit it by inserting it into the ballot scanner.
    • Feel Accomplished! You just voted!

Voting Tips:

    • If at any point you have questions, ask a poll worker! They can help you cast your ballot correctly.
    • Remember that voting is not a test! You are allowed (and encouraged) to bring a voting plan or voting guide into the polls with you. Read our FAQ about researching candidates and make a list of who you plan to vote for before heading to the polls.
    • If you make an error on your ballot, alert a poll worker, and they can help you start over.

Who can Vote By Mail-in Ballot?

Registered voters can apply for a mail-in ballot online with a valid PA driver’s license or Photo ID from the PA Department of Transportation (PennDOT). Register to vote or Find your registration status, then follow the steps below to vote by mail.

How To Vote Using a Mail-in Ballot:

Step 1: Request a Mail-In Ballot by the specified deadline.

Step 2: Vote and Send

    • Mark your ballot. Follow the instructions that come with your ballot to mark your selections.
    • Sign your ballot. Make sure you sign and date the outside of the envelope. See an example here.
    • Remember the Stamp! Check if the provided envelope requires postage before placing it in the mail.
  • Return Your Ballot.
    • Place your completed ballot in the mail. Remember to mail early!

Don’t want to mail it? Mail-in and absentee ballots can also be dropped off at the Elections Division Office – City County Building (542 Forbes Avenue, Room 312, downtown Pittsburgh). Ballot return is available in the lobby beginning the Wednesday before the election. Parking spaces will be marked on Forbes Avenue directly in front of the building for voters to park outside and enter the lobby to drop off their ballot.