BET's State-by-State Guide to Early Voting and Voter ID Laws

What you need to know to vote on or before Nov. 4.

Vote Early! - In 2008, African-American voters turned out at the polls in record numbers to support Barack Obama and send him to the White House. Without them, the U.S. would likely not yet have elected its first Black president once, never mind twice. Fast forward to 2014 and Obama has run his last race. So, do you stay home as many voters did in 2012, enabling state legislatures to implement new laws that make it harder for them to vote? Or do voters turn out again in record numbers — this time for themselves — to elect officials, from dog catcher to U.S. senator, who share their views and values? Most states allow voters to cast ballots early. Some have strict voter ID laws, while others do not require voters to present identification. Thanks to the National Conference of State Legislatures, here's a guide to how quickly you can make your voice heard and what you need to bring ...
Alabama - Alabama does not allow early voting and an excuse is required for absentee voting. Voters must present photo ID. Click here to learn which forms of identification are acceptable. (Photo: State of Alabama)
Alaska - Early voting and in-person absentee voting begin on Oct. 20 and continues through Election Day. Certain elections can be held entirely by mail. Voters must present photo ID. Click here to learn which forms of identification are acceptable. (Photo: State of Alaska)Arizona - Early voting begins on Oct. 6 and ends the Friday before Election Day. Permanent absentee status is available and certain elections can be held entirely by mail. Voters must present photo ID. Click here to learn which forms of identification are acceptable.(Photo: State of Arizona)

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Vote Early! - In 2008, African-American voters turned out at the polls in record numbers to support Barack Obama and send him to the White House. Without them, the U.S. would likely not yet have elected its first Black president once, never mind twice. Fast forward to 2014 and Obama has run his last race. So, do you stay home as many voters did in 2012, enabling state legislatures to implement new laws that make it harder for them to vote? Or do voters turn out again in record numbers — this time for themselves — to elect officials, from dog catcher to U.S. senator, who share their views and values? Most states allow voters to cast ballots early. Some have strict voter ID laws, while others do not require voters to present identification. Thanks to the National Conference of State Legislatures, here's a guide to how quickly you can make your voice heard and what you need to bring ...

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