Mississippi

Do You Need an ID? (Most restrictive)

Mississippi's photo ID law was awaiting preclearance when the Supreme Court's Shelby decision was issued; the law took effect June 3, 2014. It had been approved by voters in a 2011 referendum and passed by the state legislature in 2012. Voters previously were not required to present any document to vote. Now, they must present one of 10 forms of federal or state-issued photo ID.

Without ID, a voter may cast a provisional ballot, which is counted if he returns with an ID in five days or signs an affidavit swearing that he has a religious objection to being photographed.

Do You Need an Excuse to Vote Absentee? (Restrictive)

Voters must provide an excuse to mail in an absentee ballot.

What if You Have a Felony Conviction? (Most restrictive)

Felons are prohibited from voting while in prison, on parole and on probation. Many felons are also prohibited from voting after their sentence. The following convictions result in permanent disenfranchisement: murder, rape, bribery, theft, arson, obtaining money or goods under false pretense, perjury, forgery, embezzlement, bigamy, armed robbery, extortion, felony bad check, felony shoplifting, larceny, receiving stolen property, robbery, timber larceny, unlawful taking of a motor vehicle, statutory rape, carjacking, or larceny under lease or rental agreement. A 2012 law added voter fraud to the list. Those seeking to have their rights restored can petition their state representative to write a bill that allows that individual to vote. The bill must pass both houses and be signed by the governor.

Can You Vote In Person Before Election Day? (Most restrictive)

Mississippi does not allow early voting.