Fairfax County (Map, News) - Jackie Harris
Fairfax County general registrar

What should voters remember to bring with them to the polls?

Voters in Virginia are asked to show ID before voting.

For most voters, this ID may be their Virginia driver's license or DMV photo ID, a Virginia Voter Information Card, a photo ID issued by an employer, a Social Security card or other government-issued ID. If voters have no ID, they may complete an Affirmation of Identity at the polls and vote in the usual manner.

Certain first-time voters who registered to vote by mail are required to show a valid photo ID or a document, such as a utility bill or bank statement, that shows their name and address. These voters may cast a provisional ballot if they do not have an acceptable ID.

When are the polls opening and closing?

All polling locations in Virginia are open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m.

What if a voter is unsure of where to go to vote?

If unsure, voters may contact their local Registrar for verification of polling location. For contact information, visit www.sbe.virginia.gov or look under Voter Registration in the phone book.

How can people guarantee their vote will be recorded properly?

Each style of voting equipment provides an opportunity for the voter to review their vote before casting. On electronic equipment, this is normally a “summary screen.” Optical scan units allow the voters to review their paper ballots before inserting into a ballot counter. After review, voters should make sure to cast their ballot in accordance with the specific machine instructions. In Fairfax County, voters must press the “VOTE” button to cast their ballot.

What percentage of Virginia voters are in Northern Virginia?

Twenty-seven percent of the commonwealth's registered voters are located in the nine jurisdictions in and around Fairfax County that traditionally constitute the Northern Virginia region. (Fairfax County, Fairfax City, Arlington County, Alexandria City, Loudoun County, Prince William County, Manassas City, Manassas Park City and Falls Church City.)

Part of the Washington DC Examiner's 2006 election coverage.