Voter identification laws
laws requiring proof of identity to vote
A voter identification law is a law that requires a person to show some form of identification to vote. In some jurisdictions requiring photo IDs, voters who do not have photo ID often must have their identity verified by someone else (such as in Sweden) or sign a Challenged Voter Affidavit (such as in New Hampshire) to receive a ballot to vote. Free or affordable voter or photo identification proving citizenship was argued to put no significant burden on voters in the United States. Voter ID was found to have no negative impact on voter turnout. Photo ID was required by 176 countries or jurisdictions for voting as of 2021.
By country
Argentina
In Argentina, voting is compulsory for all citizens between 18 and 70 years old, non-compulsory for those older than 70 and between 16 and 18, and citizens with domiciles in foreign countries. To vote they must present a valid Documento Nacional de Identidad at the corresponding voting center.
Other countries in Latin America have similar policies.
Australia
In Australia, voting is compulsory for all adult citizens. Failure to cast a ballot in a federal election without a valid reason may as of 2023 attract a fine of A$20, and each state imposes its own fines for the same offence in state elections.
The public source identifies “Voter identification laws” as laws requiring proof of identity to vote. This brief keeps that definition visible, then builds a research path around Voter, identification and laws.
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