The Voting Process

The polls are open in Dover on election day from 7 am to 8 pm. For all elections, voting is at the Dover Town House in the Great Hall.

When you approach the check-in tables, seek the table that displays the alphabet sequence that includes the first letter of your street. First tell the poll worker the name of street where you live, then the number of your residence, and finally your name and your party. As the voters list is arranged by street, this is the quickest way to receive your ballot and keep any lines moving.

Independent Voters

In a primary election, voters who are registered in a political party may only obtain a ballot for that party. If you are an unenrolled voter (commonly referred to as an independent voter), you may request the ballot of any party participating in the primary election. You will not become registered in a political party because of your participation in a state primary.

If Your Name Is Not on the Voters List

If your name does not appear on the list of voters, the Warden should contact the Town Clerk to determine if you are considered an inactive voter. If you cannot be qualified to vote but believe you are registered, you may request a provisional ballot. The provisional ballot allows you to cast your vote. It will at a later date be researched and if you are determined to be a valid voter your vote will be counted.

Casting Your Votes

Once you receive a ballot, you cast your votes in the privacy of the voting booth. You may vote for the choices available on the ballot, or, if you prefer, write-in the name of a candidate in the space provided on the ballot. If you mismark your ballot, you must return it to the poll worker to have it marked as spoiled so that you may receive a new ballot (you may receive up to 3 ballots). If you are disabled and need assistance, you may be accompanied by someone who can provide the needed assistance, or you may request a poll worker to provide you with confidential, nonpartisan help.

When you have finished voting, you must proceed to the check-out table and again state the street where you live, the number of your residence and your name. (The check-in/check-out procedure allows for a full accounting of all ballots to reduce the chance of fraud). After you have checked-out, you deposit your ballot in the ballot box.

Prohibited Activities

State law prohibits the display of political paraphernalia within 150 feet of the entrance to the polling location. Signs, stickers and even lapel buttons are not permitted within this restricted zone.