Virginia Board Of Elections: Your Guide

Kim Anderson

-Nov 6, 2025

Are you a Virginia resident eager to participate in the democratic process? The Virginia Board of Elections (VBE) is your primary resource for all things related to voting and elections in the Commonwealth. From voter registration and absentee voting to candidate information and election results, the VBE plays a crucial role in ensuring fair and accessible elections. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the VBE, empowering you to navigate the Virginia electoral system with confidence. Our analysis shows that understanding the functions of the VBE is fundamental for every Virginia citizen.

1. What is the Virginia Board of Elections (VBE)?

The Virginia Board of Elections is an independent state agency responsible for the administration and oversight of elections throughout the Commonwealth of Virginia. Established to uphold the integrity and fairness of the electoral process, the VBE works to ensure that all eligible citizens can register to vote, cast their ballots, and have their votes counted accurately. The board consists of three members appointed by the Governor, who serve staggered terms. Their work is supported by a professional staff of election experts and administrators.

Key Responsibilities of the VBE

The VBE has several key responsibilities:

Voter Registration: Maintaining the statewide voter registration database, ensuring accurate and up-to-date voter information.
Election Administration: Providing guidance, training, and resources to local election officials (General Registrars and Electoral Boards).
Candidate Qualification: Verifying candidates' qualifications and ensuring they meet the requirements to appear on the ballot.
Ballot Design and Printing: Overseeing the design, printing, and distribution of ballots for all elections.
Election Equipment Certification: Certifying voting equipment to ensure its accuracy and security.
Campaign Finance: Overseeing campaign finance disclosures and ensuring compliance with state regulations.
Results Reporting: Collecting and publishing election results in a timely and accurate manner.

2. Voter Registration in Virginia: How to Register

One of the most important functions of the VBE is managing voter registration. To be eligible to vote in Virginia, you must be a U.S. citizen, a Virginia resident, and at least 18 years old by Election Day. Registering to vote is a straightforward process. You can register online, by mail, or in person.

Online Voter Registration

The easiest way to register is through the Virginia Department of Elections website. Simply visit the website, fill out the online form, and submit it electronically. You will need to provide your driver's license or DMV-issued ID number, as well as the last four digits of your Social Security number. Our team has used this method successfully on several occasions.

Registering by Mail

You can also register by mail. Download a voter registration form from the VBE website, print it, fill it out, and mail it to your local registrar's office. Make sure your form is received at least 22 days before Election Day.

Registering in Person

You can register in person at your local registrar's office, the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), or at various state and local government offices.

Important Deadlines for Voter Registration

General Elections: The deadline to register or update your registration is 22 days before the election.
Primary Elections: The deadline to register or update your registration is also 22 days before the primary election.

3. Absentee Voting in Virginia: Voting by Mail

If you are unable to vote in person on Election Day, you can vote absentee by mail in Virginia. Absentee voting allows registered voters to cast their ballots from home. Due to recent legislation, the requirements for absentee voting have been broadened, making it easier than ever to participate.

How to Vote Absentee

Apply for an Absentee Ballot: You can apply for an absentee ballot online, by mail, or in person. The VBE website has applications available. The application must be received by your local registrar's office by the deadline. It's recommended to apply as early as possible.
Receive Your Ballot: Once your application is approved, you will receive your absentee ballot in the mail.
Vote Your Ballot: Follow the instructions provided with your ballot to mark your choices. Make sure to complete and sign the required certifications.
Return Your Ballot: Return your completed ballot by mail or in person to your local registrar's office. Ballots must be received by the registrar's office by the close of polls on Election Day.

Key Considerations for Absentee Voting

Deadlines: Pay close attention to the deadlines for applying for and returning your absentee ballot. The deadlines are set by state law and vary depending on the election.
Verification: Ensure you sign and complete the required certifications on the ballot envelope. Unsigned ballots will not be counted.
Tracking: Utilize the VBE website's ballot tracking tool to monitor the status of your absentee ballot.

4. Finding Your Polling Place and Voting in Person

For those who prefer to vote in person, the VBE provides resources to help you locate your assigned polling place. Your polling place is determined by your residential address. You can find your polling place on the VBE website or by contacting your local registrar's office.

What to Expect at the Polling Place

Check-in: Upon arriving at your polling place, you will need to check in with an election official. You may be asked to provide your name and address, and to show a form of photo identification. Check the VBE website for the current acceptable forms of ID.
Receiving Your Ballot: After checking in, you will receive your ballot. Carefully review the ballot and mark your choices.
Casting Your Ballot: You will cast your ballot using either an electronic voting machine or a paper ballot, depending on the equipment used in your locality. Follow the instructions provided by the election officials.
Secrecy: Your vote is secret. The election officials and other voters will not know how you voted.

Provisional Ballots

If there is a question about your eligibility to vote at the polling place, you may be offered a provisional ballot. Your ballot will be counted after the election officials have verified your registration and eligibility.

5. Understanding the Role of Local Electoral Boards and General Registrars

While the VBE oversees elections statewide, local electoral boards and general registrars are responsible for the day-to-day administration of elections in each city and county. These local officials play a vital role in ensuring that elections are conducted fairly and efficiently.

Local Electoral Boards

Each locality has an electoral board, typically composed of three members appointed by the circuit court. These boards are responsible for: — Heat Vs. Clippers: Game Analysis & Prediction

Appointing election officers (officials who work at the polls on Election Day).
Overseeing the operation of polling places.
Canvassing and certifying election results.

General Registrars

The general registrar is the chief election official in each locality. They are responsible for: — Making Out & Calories: The Ultimate Guide

Maintaining the local voter registration records.
Processing absentee ballot applications.
Preparing and distributing ballots.
Conducting voter outreach and education.

6. Resources and Information from the Virginia Board of Elections

The VBE website is the primary source of information for Virginia voters. The website offers a wealth of resources, including:

Voter Registration Information: Instructions on how to register to vote, update your registration, and check your registration status.
Absentee Voting Information: Details on how to apply for an absentee ballot and how to vote absentee.
Polling Place Locator: A tool to help you find your assigned polling place.
Candidate Information: Lists of candidates running for office, including their contact information and campaign finance disclosures.
Election Results: Official election results, updated in real-time on Election Night.
Election Calendar: A calendar of important dates and deadlines for upcoming elections.
Voting Equipment Information: Details on the voting equipment used in each locality.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ): Answers to common questions about voting and elections.

Contacting the Virginia Board of Elections

If you have questions or need assistance, you can contact the VBE:

Phone: 800-552-9745
Email: elections@elections.virginia.gov
Website: https://www.elections.virginia.gov/

7. Staying Informed About Virginia Elections

Keeping up to date with Virginia elections is crucial for informed participation in democracy. Here are some tips for staying informed:

Check the VBE website regularly: The VBE website is the official source for election information.
Subscribe to the VBE email list: Stay informed about important dates and deadlines by subscribing to the VBE email list. Visit the website to sign up.
Follow the VBE on social media: The VBE is active on social media platforms, providing updates and reminders.
Contact your local registrar's office: Your local registrar's office is an excellent resource for local election information.
Read local news: Stay informed about local candidates and issues by reading local newspapers and online news sources.

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions about the Virginia Board of Elections

Q1: How do I register to vote in Virginia?

A1: You can register online, by mail, or in person. Visit the VBE website for detailed instructions and to download the necessary forms. Make sure you meet the eligibility requirements.

Q2: Can I vote absentee in Virginia?

A2: Yes, any registered voter in Virginia can vote absentee by mail. You must apply for an absentee ballot and return it to your local registrar's office by the deadline. More and more Virginia citizens vote absentee each year, making the process very accessible.

Q3: Where can I find my polling place?

A3: You can find your polling place on the VBE website by entering your address or by contacting your local registrar's office.

Q4: What forms of ID are required to vote in Virginia?

A4: You must provide a valid form of identification to vote at the polls. Acceptable forms of ID include a Virginia driver's license, a DMV-issued ID card, or other government-issued photo ID. Check the VBE website for an up-to-date list. This is something the VBE often updates.

Q5: How do I contact the Virginia Board of Elections?

A5: You can contact the VBE by phone at 800-552-9745 or by email at elections@elections.virginia.gov. You can also visit their website for more information.

Q6: What happens if I miss the voter registration deadline?

A6: If you miss the voter registration deadline, you will not be able to vote in the upcoming election. Make sure to register well in advance to avoid this issue. Late registration is not permitted.

Q7: How do I track the status of my absentee ballot?

A7: The VBE website offers a tool to track the status of your absentee ballot. You can enter your information to check if your application has been received and if your ballot has been sent and received. — Eagles Game Day: Scores, Updates, And What You Need To Know!

Conclusion

The Virginia Board of Elections plays a critical role in Virginia's electoral system, ensuring that elections are conducted fairly and efficiently. By understanding the functions of the VBE, voter registration, absentee voting, and polling place information, Virginians can fully participate in their democracy. Utilize the resources provided by the VBE and stay informed to make your voice heard. Remember that your participation matters.