Nelson County, Virginia Elections

FAQs

Find answers to some of our most frequently asked questions below. If you still need help, you can reach us by email at registrar@nelsoncounty.org or phone at 434-263-7190.

Registering to Vote

Do I need an ID to register online to vote?

All Virginia residents who are eligible to vote may fill out a voter registration application online on the Department of Election’s website. If you don’t have a Virginia driver license or identification card number but you enter your other information, the website will create a voter registration application for you to print, sign, and mail.

I’ve moved. How do I change my address?

You can update your Virginia residence address by re-registering online or by submitting a paper voter registration application.

When is the deadline to register to vote?

Virginia residents must be registered to vote at least 22 days before a General or Primary Election Day. For this date and other important election deadlines, see our election calendar.

How do I change my political party preference?

Virginia residents do not register by party.

How and Where to Vote

When does early voting start?

Virginia law allows voters to cast their ballots as early as 45 days before an election. For the November 7, 2023 General Election, early voting will begin Friday, September 22, 2023 at:

  • Nelson County Voter Registration and Elections Office: 571 Front Street, Lovingston, VA 22949.
  • Phone: (434) 263-7190. Open Monday – Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Where can I vote on election day?

Voters in Nelson County vote in the precinct in which they are registered on Election Day. You can find out where to vote by using the polling place lookup tool.

What to Expect on Election Day

What do I need to bring with me?

Virginia law requires all registered voters to show one acceptable ID to vote in person. If you get to your polling place without acceptable ID, you can sign an ID Confirmation Statement or vote a provisional ballot. You will need to submit a copy of a valid ID by 12:00 noon the Friday after the election. You will be given instructions on what to do so your vote can count. See the full list of acceptable forms of ID.

What are my rights as a voter?

  • Vote if you have been registered at your current address at least 22 days before Election Day.
  • Ask any election officer for help.
  • Be shown how to mark and cast your ballot.
  • Ask for a new ballot if you want to change your vote before you cast it.
  • Vote a provisional ballot if your name doesn’t appear on the voter list and you believe it should, or you forgot to bring an acceptable ID and refuse to sign an ID Confirmation Statement.
  • You may be accompanied into the voting booth by your child age 15 or younger. into the voting booth.
  • Vote if you are in line by 7 pm when the polls close

If you have a complaint related to your registration or voting experience, the law provides several options for you to take action.

Accessible Voting

What if I have a permanent disability and want to vote in person?

It is your right to vote privately and independently. For information about your options, visit our Accessible Voting page.

How to Get Involved

How can I become an election worker?

If you’d like to serve your community and make money as an election worker, see what’s involved on our Become an Election Worker page.

How do I run for office? How can I help add a measure to the ballot?

For information for candidates and campaigns, visit our Resources for Candidates page.

How can I get to know my local election department?

Elections are people powered! To learn more about your local election department and get in touch, visit the Contact Us page.