FAQ

  • I registered to vote, but where do I go?
    • The Portage County Board of Elections should send you a voter registration acknowledgment card that will list your ward, precinct and the name and address of your polling (voting) location. 
  • What if I have not received a voter registration acknowledgment card yet?
    •  If you registered to vote in Kent or Portage County, you will need to contact the Portage County Board of Elections.  Their phone number is 330-297-3511.
      • If you live on-campus and registered to vote in Kent, you can use the KSU Residence Halls Voting Precincts chart found at the bottom of this page to find your polling place.
        • If you are registered in the area and live off-campus, you can check the precinct maps for Kent and Ravenna, also located at the bottom of this page.  You will need to enlarge them to be able to see street names.
    • If you registered in any other Ohio county, you will need to contact the Board of Elections of that county.  Contact information for each county Board of Elections can be found on the Secretary of State's web site.
    • You can also check the Find Your Polling Location tool on the Ohio Secretary of State's web site.  Keep in mind that if you registered very recently, your information may not be available yet.
  • What if I registered to vote, but when I call the Board of Elections, they say my name is not on the list?
    • If it is BEFORE the registration deadline:  You can simply fill out another Ohio voter registration form.
    • If you are told ON ELECTION DAY that your name is not on the list:
      • It is possible that you are in the wrong polling location.  In this case, the poll workers will direct you to your assigned polling location.
      • If you are in the correct polling location and your name is not on the list, the poll workers will provide you with a provisional ballot.
        • if you are asked to vote a provisional ballot, the poll worker will provide you with information regarding where and when you must visit the Board of Elections in order to offer proof that your ballot is legitimate.
  • Do I need to show ID before I can vote?
    • You are required to provide ID when voting.  Bring your Ohio driver's license or a document with your name and current address on it. Acceptable documents would include a paycheck from Kent State University, a utility bill or a bank statement with your residential address.  Please keep in mind that your University ID is NOT an acceptable form of identification for voting.  If you have moved, you need to update your address immediately so that these documents reflect your current residential address.
    • Further information regarding ID requirements is available on the Secretary of State's web site.
  • I never voted before.  Will the voting machines be easy to use?
    • Look for signs and instructions at your polling location that will provide you directions on how to use the voting machines.  If you have any questions, ask the poll workers for assistance.  Don't feel rushed or confused.  Take your time and remember, your vote is important.
  • I completed an Ohio absentee ballot; where do I turn it in?
    • If you received and voted an absentee ballot, you must return it to the Board of Elections in the county in which you are registered. 
      •  A ballot returned in-person to the Board of Elections must be received by 7:30 p.m. on Election Night
      • A ballot returned by mail must be postmarked no later than the day before Election Day.
      • Absentee ballots CANNOT be dropped off at the KSU Library; they must be taken or mailed to the appropriate Board of Elections office.
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