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

To vote for selfies or not to vote for selfies – that is the question.

In some states, taking a photo with your ballot is not an option at all.

WITH Election day is fast approaching, millions of people across the country are planning to head to the polls, and many of them are excited to share their civic engagement with friends, family and, of course, on social media.

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But first, make sure you can take a photo at your polling station. Laws on sharing photos or other polling content vary, and states are divided over how to ensure free speech and protect the secrecy of voting. Many states still have unclear laws regarding this practice, while others have restrictions on when, where and when photos can be taken and how they can be shared– says Ballotpedia.

Here’s what you need to know before you start fumbling with your ballot.

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

Here are the states you can go to if you want to get your Election Day shot. Some of these states have specific rules about when you can share photos, so be sure to check your local photo sharing laws. Almost all states specify that you can only take and share photos of your own ballot.

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In these states, you can only take photos with your own absentee ballot

These states do not allow you to take photos in or near the polling place while you are casting a vote, but they do allow you to take photos of absentee ballots or mail-in ballots while you are at home.

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In these states, don’t take photos of your own ballot (dot)

Some states allow photos of ballots to be taken before they are completed, but not after: according to Ballotpedia. Others forbid taking photos altogether. Fines and penalties vary by state if a voter violates laws or guidelines by taking a photo of their ballot, so contact your local government or look for your state’s statutes for more information.

States where voting selfie laws are unclear

In these states, there are no specific rules – or it’s unclear – whether selfies are allowed at the polls or if they can only be taken away from the polls. Please double-check local rules or contact local authorities to confirm before taking any photos.