Picture ID Now Required to Vote

On July 18, 2007, the Michigan Supreme Court ruled that a provision of Michigan election law, MCL 168.523, which requires voters to either present picture identification or sign an affidavit if they do not have picture identification with them is constitutional and enforceable.  Voters who apply for an absentee voter ballot are not required to comply with the picture identification requirement.

Beginning with the November 6, 2007 General Election, picture identification will be required to vote at the polls or the voter must sign an affidavit attesting that he or she is not in possession of picture identification.

Voters can satisfy the picture identification requirement by showing a Michigan driver’s license or a Michigan personal identification card.

Voters who do not possess either document may show any of the following forms of picture identification as long as they are current:

• Driver’s license or personal identification card issued by another state.
• Federal or state government-issued photo identification.
• U.S. passport.
• Military identification card with photo.
• Student identification with photo - from a high school or an accredited institution of higher education.
• Tribal identification card with photo.

Questions regarding this requirement may be directed to the City Clerk’s Office at 734-722-2204.