How to Vote Using Optical-Scan Machines

Posted by Anonymous , 9/4/2007 Tags:VoteUsingOpticalScanMachines
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How to Vote Using Optical-Scan Machines

Introduction

As a voter, you will be required to use a variety of voting methods. Using optical-scan machines allows you to vote with a traditional pen-and-paper ballot, but also gives you the option of submitting the ballot to the box yourself and confirming receipt of the counted vote. Some precincts require a poll worker to submit the ballot.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Vote Using Optical-Scan Machines

Steps

1

Step One

Register to vote before going to the polls. Give yourself 2 to 8 weeks before Election Day to complete and send in a voter registration application. If your name is not on the list at the polls, chances are that you will be denied the right to vote.
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Step Two

Ask for a ballot from one of the precinct officials. They should also hand you a pencil or pen and lead you to a booth with privacy walls. You will be allowed to cast your vote for your candidate or ballot issues at that time.
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Step Three

Fill in the little box or oval next to the candidates and measures that you are voting for. On some ballots, there is a space between two arrows for you to fill in.
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Step Four

Take your completed ballot to the precinct official when done. There will either be a ballot box or a row of optical-scan machines. Using the machines is the only way to know for sure immediately that your vote was counted.
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Step Five

Feed the completed ballot card into one of the optical-scan machines. It will read your card to make sure that you haven't voted for two candidates in the same category. This is called "over-voting" and if your ballot is filled out incorrectly, the optical-scan machine will return it to you for corrections.
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Step Six

Re-do the ballot if it is returned to you. The precinct official will provide you with another copy and lead you back to the privacy booth. If you are having problems or have questions, be sure to read the ballot instructions first and then ask a poll worker for help.

Overall Tips & Warnings

  • Remember that the poll workers are trained to use the optical-scan machines, so don't hesitate to ask them for help.
  • Different precincts use different voting machines, so your local polling station may not be using the optical-scan machines.
  • If the optical-scan machines are not functioning properly, you will be required to drop your ballot into a secured and locked box where the poll workers will manually count the votes at the end of the day.
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