How do I Challenge a Ballot?
Poll managers, any voter, and any qualified watcher may challenge the vote of a person who may be known or suspected not to be a qualified voter. A challenge may also be made if you have good reason to believe the person has already voted or has become disqualified for any cause. Challenges of ballots cast in person in the absentee precinct and at the polling place on election day must be made prior to the voter casting the ballot. No challenges can be made after that time. All challenges must be addressed to poll managers and not directly to voters. Challenges of absentee by mail ballots must be made prior to separating the ballot from absentee return envelope, which can begin as early as 9:00 a.m. on the day preceding the election. Challenges in the absentee precinct are very rare because the voter has the opportunity to make address changes or otherwise correct his voting record with election officials before casting an absentee ballot. If a challenged voter casts a provisional ballot, the challenger must appear or produce evidence at the provisional ballot hearing to sustain the challenge; otherwise, the ballot will be counted. See S.C. Code sections 7-13-810 and 7-13-830.
What times are polls open?
Polls are open from 7:00 am until 7:00 pm.
What if I am physically unable to walk into my polling place?
Curbside voting is available for those who are not able to go into the polling location.
What identification will I need to vote?
ID is required for voting:
- Current drivers License – SC
- DMV issued Photo ID – SC
- Voter Registration Card with photo
- Current passport card or book
- Federal Military ID
Why do I need additional identification at the polls?
If you registered through the mail and DID NOT provide your ID, you will have to provide it at the polls; if you use your voter registration card, you will need one additional form of ID:
- A current and valid photo identification OR SC concealed weapons permit
- A current bank Statement – with name and address.
- A current utility Bill – with name and address.
- A current paycheck – with name and address.
- A current government check – with name and address.
- A current government document – with name and address (Voter registration card cannot be used).
Can I wear a candidate T shirt or button inside my polling place?
No campaign materials are allowed within 200 ft of voting precinct or inside the precinct; this includes button, hats, t-shirts, bumper stickers, etc.
What if I need assistance with the voting machine?
A person who is physically disabled, unable to read, or blind may request assistance. Poll workers are trained to provide instruction on voting machines.
I registered at the DMV but I never received my Voter Registration card. What should I do?
If you registered at the DMV, and have NOT gotten a voter registration card, please call our office to make sure you are currently registered.
Do I Need To Correct My Address When I Move Within Lancaster County?
If you move within Lancaster County or have a name change you need to correct your voter registration. If you do not have your card, you can drop a note in the mail making sure to include your social security number, telephone number and your signature. Mail to Registration and Elections, PO Box 1809 Lancaster SC 29721
You can also fill out a change of address form. Once you complete the form, print it out, sign and mail it to the Registration and Election Offices at PO Box 1809 Lancaster SC 29721. For the change of address form click here. A new voter registration card will be mailed to you after corrections are made. The name of your precinct will appear on the white stub attached to your card and also includes the election districts you are eligible to vote in.