Tips for voters heading to the polls | News

Before you take the trip to the polls later this week, the Oklahoma State Election Board has a few tips and reminders for voters.

Voters are encouraged to make informed decisions by studying the candidates and issues before heading to the polls.

Citizens can get a free sample ballot at the County Election Board or look up all the state questions and candidates at the election board's website.

Also, voters will need to show proof of identity before they will be able to receive a ballot. Residents can bring a valid, government-issued photo identification card, free voter identification card or you can sign an affidavit and use a provisional ballot.

Voters will also be able to find their polling place location using the Polling Place Locator on the State Election Board's website. You can also call your County Election Board for personal assistance.

Citizens are able to bring personal notes about how you plan to vote but it is against the law to share your notes with other voters.

When you mark your ballot, wait until the ballot scanner finishes processing the ballot of the voter ahead of you. The scanner is finished when the blue Oklahoma flag changes to a white screen that says "Ready to Scan."

Polls will be open statewide from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 6.

Give yourself plenty of time to vote and plan for long lines.

Officials say you can save time by voting during "off-peak" hours, which include 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. to 4 p.m.