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    • Can you take a photo of your ballot? What the law says in each state
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    Can you take a photo of your ballot? What the law says in each state

    Kathleen William Posted on

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    To take a selfie or not to take a selfie, that is the question.

    In some states it's not even possible to take a photo with your ballot.

    As Election Day approaches, millions of people across the country are planning to vote, and many are looking forward to sharing their civic engagement with friends, family and, of course, social media.

    Live updates on the 2024 election: Kamala Harris, Donald Trump's court swing states; Latest polls

    However, make sure you are allowed to take a photo at your polling place first. Laws surrounding sharing photos or other content from polls vary, with states divided over how to both allow free speech and protect the secrecy of voting. According to Ballotpedia, many states still have unclear laws surrounding the practice, while others have restrictions on when and where photos can be taken and whether they can be shared.

    Here's what you need to know before casting your ballot.

    In these states, you can take photos with your own ballot at the polls

    Here's a look at the states you can go to if you want to snap a photo on Election Day. Some of these states have specific rules that determine when photos can be shared. Be sure to check your local image sharing laws. Almost all states specify that you can only take and share photos of your own ballot.

    More: As poll workers face increasing hostility, we spent time with them on the ground

    In these states, you are only allowed to take photos with your own mail-in ballot

    These states do not allow taking photos while voting in or near a polling place. However, they do allow photographing absentee or absentee ballots if you are at home.

    More: The National Mission of Election Chaplains: Protecting the “Sacred Right to Vote.”

    Do not take photos of your own ballot in these states (period)

    Some states allow photos of ballots before they are filled out, but not after, according to Ballotpedia. Others ban photos altogether. Fines and penalties vary by state if a voter violates laws or policies by taking a photo of their ballot. Therefore, contact local officials or search your state's laws for more information.

    States where ballot selfie laws aren't clear

    In these states, there are no specific rules – or it is unclear – whether ballot selfies are allowed or only outside polling places. Double check local regulations or contact local authorities to confirm before taking any pictures.

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    Kathleen William
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