How to vote in Nebraska

Can I trust this information?

These guides are researched, written, and updated by Democracy Works, a non-partisan 501(c)(3) registered non-profit organization, to inform voters via TurboVote and other partners. The information in these guides originates from official state sources and is reviewed by state election offices. The guides also link to authoritative state and local resources to provide additional information.

How do I report an issue with the information provided on this page?

Drop us a line to report an issue, share feedback or ask questions about the voting information on this page.

Summary

Nebraska allows any voter to request a ballot by mail. You can also vote in person. Nebraska offers early voting.

Who can register to vote?

To register in Nebraska you must:
  • be a citizen of the United States
  • be a resident of Nebraska and of the county where you are registering; if you move to another county, you must re-register
  • be at least 18 years of age or will be 18 years of age on or before the first Tuesday after the first Monday of November
  • not have been convicted of a felony, either in Nebraska or another state or in federal court; you cannot register to vote until two years after the completion of your sentence including any probation or parole term
  • not have been officially found to be mentally incompetent

How do I vote in person?

Where can I vote on Election Day?

You can look up where to vote on Nebraska's site.

Can I vote early?

  • Yes, Nebraska does offer early voting. You can choose whether to vote on Election Day or during the early voting period, whichever is easier for you. This can be especially helpful if it would be difficult or not possible for you to vote on Election Day. Early voting locations may be less crowded, as well.

What do I need to bring?

If you've voted in Nebraska before, you do not have to show ID to vote.

If you're a first-time voter who registered to vote by mail, and didn't include a copy of your ID when you registered, you'll need to show ID to vote. Acceptable forms include:
  • current photo ID
  • current utility bill
  • bank statement
  • government check
  • paycheck
  • other government document that shows your name and address

Voters without ID: If you are unable to provide ID, you will be able to vote a provisional ballot.

How can I check the status of my ballot?

You can check the status of your ballot on Nebraska’s site.

Can I vote early?

Yes, Nebraska does offer early voting.
  • You can choose whether to vote on Election Day or during the early voting period, whichever is easier for you. This can be especially helpful if it would be difficult or not possible for you to vote on Election Day. Early voting locations may be less crowded, as well.

      What do I need to bring?

      If you've voted in Nebraska before, you do not have to show ID to vote.

      If you're a first-time voter who registered to vote by mail, and didn't include a copy of your ID when you registered, you'll need to show ID to vote. Acceptable forms include:
      • current photo ID
      • current utility bill
      • bank statement
      • government check
      • paycheck
      • other government document that shows your name and address

      Voters without ID: If you are unable to provide ID, you will be able to vote a provisional ballot.

      How do I vote by mail?

      In Nebraska, any registered voter can request to get a ballot by mail. Fill out the mail ballot application and mail it to your local election office. Applications must be physically signed. You can also take a picture or scan your request and email it to your local election office.

      What should I do if I don’t get my ballot?

      If you don’t receive your ballot in the mail, then contact your local election office.

      How do I return my ballot?

      What do I need to do if I’ve moved?

      What’s on your ballot depends on where you live, so your voter registration is tied to your exact address. If you’ve moved, you need to re-register with your new address.

      How can I check the status of my ballot?

      You can check the status of your ballot on Nebraska’s site.

      Can I register to vote on Election Day?

      Nebraska does not offer registration on Election Day.

      Exception: If you were not yet registered and requested an early voting ballot from your local election office before the third Friday before the election, you may return a voter registration form provided with your early voting ballot on Election Day.

      How do I see what's on my ballot?

      View your sample ballot on the Nebraska Secretary of State, Elections Division's website. Available ballot information may vary depending on the upcoming election.

      How do I get help registering to vote?

      TurboVote can help you start the absentee/mail-in ballot request process, send you election reminders, and more. If you’d like more help planning how to vote, we can walk you through the process!

      How do I vote if I'm in the military or live overseas?

      Active-duty military, their families, and overseas citizens can register to vote and request their absentee ballot using the Federal Post Card Application (FPCA). The FPCA can be returned to your election official by email, fax, or mail. Please contact your local election office for more information about delivery and return methods, including email and fax. You can also learn more about the FPCA by visiting the Nebraska Secretary of State, Elections Division’s website for military voters and overseas voters.
      1. Fill out the Federal Post Card Application (FPCA), or download a copy. Your local election office may have questions, so please provide an email address or phone number where they can reach you.
      2. Send the application to your local election office.
      3. It is never too early to submit an FPCA! Please do so as soon as possible.
      4. Please fill out and send back your ballot as soon as you receive it.
      5. States begin mailing absentee ballots at least 45 days before Election Day. If you haven't received your ballot by 30 days before Election Day, contact your local election office.
      If after submitting your FPCA, your ballot does not arrive, contact your local election office first. Then:
      • You can still vote using the Federal Write-In Absentee Ballot (FWAB). Print, sign, and mail your FWAB to your local election office.
      • If you mail a FWAB and then receive your regular absentee ballot, you should complete and mail your absentee ballot also. Election officials will ensure that only one ballot is counted.
      The Federal Voting Assistance Program offers additional information on military and overseas voting in Nebraska. You can also call 1-800-438-VOTE (8683) or email vote@fvap.gov

      How can I check my voter registration status?

      You can look up your voter registration record and verify that your information is correct using Nebraska's voter registration lookup tool.

      Which election office should I contact?

      • In Nebraska, your local election office runs the elections in your area. They can help you with questions about registering to vote, voting by mail, and local elections.
      • The Secretary of State, Elections Division oversees elections and election administration in Nebraska. They can help you with questions about voting in your state, election security, or issues you might have at the polls. If you have concerns about voter intimidation, reach out immediately.

      How do I contact my local election office?

      Visit your state’s site to find your local election office.