Voter ID

Voter ID laws require people to prove their identity when voting, either at the polls, by mail or both. Rules vary widely: some states require a photo ID, while others accept a utility bill, bank statement or signed affidavit. Many states with ID laws allow a voter without the required document to cast a provisional ballot and later verify identity.

The Supreme Court upheld Indiana's photo ID law in Crawford v. Marion County Election Board (2008), finding that the burden was justified by the state's interests in preventing fraud and maintaining confidence in elections. Courts have struck down certain laws found to be intentionally discriminatory, as in North Carolina in 2016, while upholding others. Challenges often rely on the Voting Rights Act.

Supporters, largely Republicans, argue that ID protects against impersonation and increases public confidence, and polling shows broad public support. Opponents, mostly Democrats, say that in-person impersonation is very rare, that some citizens, such as older, poor and minority voters, lack ID or face difficulty obtaining it, and that laws can suppress turnout. Research on the actual effects on turnout has produced mixed or small findings. States that require ID often offer free ID cards. Federal legislation to set a national standard has not passed.