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Voting in Northeast North Dakota: Information, Accessibility, and Resources


The North Dakota Primary Election will take place on Tuesday, June 9, 2026. This is the day for all in-person voting and the day that absentee ballots must be returned before polls close.


The Arc Upper Valley serves individuals and families throughout Northeast North Dakota, including Grand Forks and surrounding communities. This article shares general North Dakota voting information and accessibility resources that may be helpful across the state.


Some information included below, such as transportation options and polling location details, is specific to Grand Forks. Because voting locations, early voting options, and local election procedures may vary by county, we have also included statewide resources to help individuals find information specific to their local community.


Voting is one of the most important ways individuals can make their voices heard and participate in their communities. In North Dakota, voting is designed to be accessible and available to all eligible voters, including individuals with disabilities.


If you are a U.S. citizen, at least 18 years old, and have lived in North Dakota for at least 30 days before Election Day, you have the right to vote with the appropriate North Dakota ID.


WHAT IS NORTH DAKOTA'S VOTER REGISTRATION REQUIREMENTS?


North Dakota is the only state that does not require voter registration. However, voters must provide an acceptable form of identification when voting. Your identification must include your name, your current North Dakota residential address, and your date of birth.


Acceptable forms of identification include:

  • North Dakota Driver’s License

  • North Dakota Non-Driver ID

  • Tribal government-issued ID

  • Long-Term Care Identification Certificate


If your ID does not include your current address, supplemental documentation may be required.


WAYS TO VOTE IN NORTH DAKOTA


North Dakota offers several ways to vote, allowing individuals to choose the option that works best for them:

  • Vote in Person on Election Day: Voters may cast their ballot at their assigned polling location on Election Day.

  • Vote Early: Many counties offer early voting before Election Day. Early voting locations and hours vary by county.

  • Vote by Absentee Ballot: Any qualified North Dakota voter may vote absentee, and no excuse is required. Absentee ballots may be returned by mail, to a secure county drop box, or in person to the county auditor. Absentee ballots must be received by the close of polls on Election Day.


VOTING IN THE CITY OF GRAND FORKS


Election Information for Grand Forks


The City of Grand Forks provides information regarding elections, including voting location, early voting, and absentee ballots. Information can be found on the City of Grand Forks website.


Free Transportation to Vote in Grand Forks


Grand Forks City Bus is providing FREE bus rides on Election Day, June 9, 2026. Following are voting locations and bus route information:

  • Alerus Center: Routes 8 & 9

  • HOPE Church: Routes 7, 10 & 22

  • Runnings: Routes 2 & 22

  • ICON Arena: Route 10


MY VOTING INFORMATION


Individuals can make plans regarding voting before heading to the polls. The North Dakota Secretary of State’s website is a useful tool that allows voters to find information specific to their address and local community, including:

  • Polling locations

  • Sample ballots

  • Candidate and contest information

  • Ballot measures and ballot questions

  • Absentee voting information

  • Early voting information

  • Voting districts and precincts


ACCESSIBILITY AND VOTING RIGHTS


Voters with disabilities have the right to vote privately, independently, and accessibly. Federal laws, including the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the Help America Vote Act (HAVA), help protect these rights.


Accessibility Supports at Polling Places


Accessibility supports may include:

  • Wheelchair accessible polling locations

  • Accessible voting equipment

  • Audio ballots and headphones

  • Large print or alternative format materials

  • Sign language or communication supports

  • Service animals at polling locations

  • Chairs or accommodations if standing in line is difficult

  • Assistance from election workers or a person of your choice


A person assisting a voter may be a friend, family member, support staff, guardian, or poll worker. However, assistance cannot be provided by:

  • An employer

  • A union representative

  • A candidate on the ballot or a relative of a candidate on the ballot (unless they are a family member)


Accessible Voting Equipment


North Dakota polling locations provide accessible voting systems, including ExpressVote machines, which help individuals vote privately and independently.

Features may include:

  • Touchscreen voting

  • Audio instructions through headphones

  • Tactile keypads and accessible controls


Voters may contact their county auditor before the election with questions about accessible voting equipment or polling place accessibility.


Accessible Absentee Voting


Voters who have difficulty reading or marking a paper ballot due to a disability may request an accessible electronic absentee ballot. This option allows eligible voters to complete their ballot electronically using an internet-connected device.


Voting and Identification Assistance


If a voter with a disability does not have an acceptable ID or cannot obtain one due to disability-related barriers, another qualified North Dakota voter may serve as an attester to verify the voter’s identity and eligibility.


Voting Rights for Individuals with Disabilities


Individuals with disabilities have the right to:

  • Vote privately and independently

  • Receive assistance if needed

  • Use accessible voting equipment

  • Access an accessible polling location

  • Bring a service animal into the polling place

  • Correct a ballot if a mistake is made

  • Vote if they are in line when the polls close


Understanding your voting rights when you have a disability is important. To learn more, check out these additional resources:


We look forward to seeing you at the polls on Tuesday!



 
 
 

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The Arc Upper Valley & Thrift Store |  1200 South Washington Street  |  Grand Forks, North Dakota 58201  |  (701) 772-6191

The Arc, Upper Valley is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, donations to which are tax deductible to the fullest extend allowed by law on all solicitations. A copy of The Arc, Upper Valley's last financial statement may be obtained by contacting the organization.  In accordance with the North Dakota Charitable Gaming Code, the organizations gaming information will be made available for review upon request.

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