Frequently Asked Questions

QUESTION 1. Does everyone need to show identification?

No. Only voters who are voting for the first time in Shawnee County. This includes voters who have moved out of county thereby canceling their registration here and who have now returned.

QUESTION 2. What kind of identification do I need as a first-time voter?

Acceptable identification is a current and valid Kansas driver's license, non-driver's identification card, utility bill, bank statement, paycheck, government check or other government document containing your current correct name and address. The voter registration certificate is not an acceptable form of identification.

QUESTION 3. Where can I get registered to vote?

You may register to vote at any Capitol Federal Savings location, Fidelity Bank branch, the Topeka/Shawnee County Public Library or the Shawnee County Election Office. You can also view our registration locations list.

QUESTION 4. Who are my elected officials?

You can find your elected officials and your voting location from our search page.

QUESTION 5. How do I change my party?

Please download a voter registration application, complete and mail. The deadline to change your party affiliation for the 2004 August Primary is July 19th.

QUESTION 6. How long do I have to live in the county before I qualify to vote?

There is no length of residency requirement in Kansas for voting other than the 15 days one must be registered before the election.

QUESTION 7. I am a college student living away from home. Can I register at my parent's address? Can I vote from my address out of town?

You must determine your permanent residence. You have the option of maintaining your permanent address at your parent's home and voting by advance ballot or registering to vote in the county where you are residing. If you are attending school in a state other than Kansas you will need to check residency requirements for that state.