Can Felons Vote in Washington?

Overview

Washington automatically restores voting rights when a person is released from total confinement under the Department of Corrections. Since HB 1078 took effect on January 1, 2022, people on community supervision (probation, parole) can vote — the restriction applies only while a person is serving a sentence of total confinement in a DOC facility. Unpaid fines, fees, and legal financial obligations (LFOs) do not affect voting eligibility. The DOC is required to notify people in writing of their restored voting rights prior to release. Approximately 20,000 people regained their right to vote when HB 1078 took effect, and Washington continues to expand outreach to ensure formerly incarcerated residents know they can vote.

Quick Answer

Yes, you can vote in Washington with a felony conviction as long as you are not currently serving a sentence of total confinement under the Department of Corrections. Your voting rights are automatically restored upon release. You can vote while on community supervision, probation, or parole. Unpaid fines do not block your right to vote. Register at VoteWA.gov.

Step-by-Step Process

Key Laws

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I vote in Washington if I have a felony conviction?

Yes, as long as you are not currently serving a sentence of total confinement in a DOC facility or federal prison. Your voting rights are automatically restored upon release. You can vote while on community supervision, probation, or parole. Unpaid fines and LFOs do not affect your eligibility.

How do I register to vote after release in Washington?

Register online at VoteWA.gov using your Washington driver's license or state ID number. You can also register by mail, in person at your county auditor's office, or at a voter registration drive. If you were previously registered, you must re-register after release from total confinement.

What changed with HB 1078?

Before HB 1078 took effect on January 1, 2022, people in Washington had to complete all terms of their sentence — including community supervision and legal financial obligations — before they could vote. HB 1078 changed the law so that voting rights are restored immediately upon release from total confinement, regardless of supervision status or unpaid fines. Approximately 20,000 people regained their right to vote.

Does Washington have polling places?

Washington is a vote-by-mail state. Once registered, you automatically receive a ballot in the mail before each election. There are no traditional polling places for most voters. You return your ballot by mail (postage prepaid) or at an official drop box by 8 PM on Election Day. Some counties also offer in-person voting centers for those who prefer to vote in person or need accessible voting equipment.

Do I need an ID to vote in Washington?

When registering to vote, you need your Washington driver's license or state ID number, or the last four digits of your Social Security number. When returning your mail ballot, your signature on the return envelope serves as your identification — it is compared against your registration signature. No photo ID is required at a ballot drop box.

Can I register to vote on Election Day in Washington?

Yes. Washington allows same-day voter registration. Online and mail registration must be received at least 8 days before Election Day. After that deadline, you can register in person at your county auditor's or elections office up to and including Election Day.

How does the DOC notify me about my voting rights?

Under RCW 10.64.140, the Department of Corrections is required to provide written notice of your restored voting rights before you are released from total confinement or transferred to partial confinement. This includes information about how to register. However, even without this notice, your rights are automatically restored upon release.

Can I vote from county jail in Washington?

It depends on your situation. If you are in county jail awaiting trial (pretrial) and have not been convicted, you retain the right to vote and can request an absentee ballot. If you are in county jail on a misdemeanor sentence, check with your county auditor — jail time for a misdemeanor may still allow you to vote. If you are in county jail serving a DOC sentence, you cannot vote while confined.

What if I miss the deadline to return my ballot?

Your mail ballot must be postmarked by Election Day or placed in an official drop box by 8 PM on Election Day. If you miss both deadlines, your ballot will not be counted for that election. Make sure to return your ballot promptly. You can track its status at VoteWA.gov.

What if I was wrongly told I cannot vote because of my felony?

Misinformation about felon voting rights is common, especially since the law changed in 2022. If you have been released from total confinement, you can vote — even if you are on community supervision or owe LFOs. Contact the Secretary of State at (800) 448-4881 or the ACLU of Washington (aclu-wa.org) for assistance confirming your eligibility.