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Public Service Announcements

Secretary of State Tre Hargett has prepared two public service announcements to remind voters about Tennessee’s new photo ID law. If you would like to broadcast or link to the announcements, click PSA 1 or PSA 2.

Free Photo ID Information

Visit the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security’s Free Photo ID information page to find out more about obtaining a free photo ID for voting or having your picture added to your non-photo drivers license.

 

Helpful Links

Honor Vote Program

honor vote

The Honor Vote program has given Tennesseans an opportunity to dedicate their vote to active-duty military personnel and veterans. The program was an overwhelming success in its inaugural request for dedications, having received nearly 3,500 submissions.

While the program is currently closed for new entries, the list of honored soldiers and veterans is still accessible for viewing.

The program will accept dedications again during the 2014 election.

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Voter Identification Requirements

All voters must present an ID containing the voter’s name and photograph when voting at the polls, whether voting early or on Election Day. The information on this website is provided to ensure that all Tennessee voters have access to information about the new law. If you have further questions, please see the Contact Us information at the bottom of the page.

 

What IDs are acceptable?

Any of the following IDs may be used, even if expired:

  • Tennessee drivers license with your photo
  • United States Passport
  • Photo ID issued by the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security
  • Photo ID issued by the federal or Tennessee state government
  • United States Military photo ID
  • Tennessee handgun carry permit with your photo
What IDs are not acceptable?

College student IDs and photo IDs not issued by the federal or Tennessee state government are NOT acceptable. This includes county or city issued photo IDs, such as library cards, and photo IDs issued by other states.

Who is exempt?
  • Voters who vote absentee by mail (view requirements here)
  • Voters who are residents of a licensed nursing home or assisted living center and who vote at the facility         
  • Voters who are hospitalized
  • Voters with a religious objection to being photographed
  • Voters who are indigent and unable to obtain a photo ID without paying a fee
What if I registered by mail and am voting in my first election?

Federal law requires first time voters who register by mail to present one of the following:

  • A current photo identification with voter’s name and photo OR
  • If the photo identification is expired, the voter must also present one of the following: a copy of a current utility bill, bank statement, government check, paycheck or other government document that shows the voter’s name and address.