4 Things To Know Before Heading Out To Vote

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- More than a half a million Minnesotans have already voted ahead of Election Day, shattering old records when you used to have to give a reason to vote absentee. We know millions will vote because our state has historically the best voter turnout in the country.

Here are the four things you need to know before you head out to cast your vote Tuesday.

Polling Hours

First and foremost, you need to know the hours you can vote. Polls open at 7 a.m. and close at 8 p.m. If you are at least in line at 8 p.m., you are allowed to cast your vote.

Your Polling Location

If you still aren't sure where to vote, it's easy to look up on the Secretary of State's website, all you have to do is enter your ZIP code, then punch in your address. It provides a sample ballot for your area.

What To Bring

If your voter registration is current and active, you do not need to bring identification. This means you were successfully registered at least 21 days before Election Day. If you still need to register, you need a driver's license, passport, military or any other form of ID issued by any state. College or high school IDs also work, along with tribal identification. You can even use a phone bill, TV or internet bill for proof of address. Finally, registered voters can go with you to the polling place and vouch for you as well.

Rules At Polling Places

Here are the rules of conduct at polling places. There is no campaigning allowed within 100 feet of polling places. You cannot display political t-shirts, buttons or literature in the polling place. You will need to either cover up or remove these items while in the polling place. There is no law that prohibits taking photos or videos in the polling place to record your own voting experience. However, the office of the Minnesota Secretary of State discourages this activity.