Exceptions to North Carolina's voter ID requirements

In North Carolina, all voters are asked to present a photo ID when voting. However, the law provides specific provisions for voters who are unable to show an acceptable ID.

If you do not have an acceptable ID, you can use a Photo ID Exception Form.  This form applies to all voters, including overseas voters who vote by portal or email. 

When completing this form, you will need to indicate the reason you cannot provide an ID, choosing from permitted exceptions which include:

  • A "Reasonable Impediment": This category covers a variety of circumstances that prevent you from obtaining or showing an ID.

  • Religious Objection: An exception exists for individuals who have a religious objection to being photographed.

  • Natural Disaster Victim: Voters who were victims of a declared natural disaster within 100 days of Election Day may also qualify for an exception.

For the full list of acceptable IDs, detailed instructions on how to use the ID Exception Form (including specific "reasonable impediments" recognized by the state), and procedures for voting by mail or in person without an ID, please consult the official resources provided by the North Carolina State Board of Elections.

If you do not have a valid photo ID, the state provides options to obtain one for free. You can find more information about getting a "No Fee ID Card" through the NCDMV or a free Voter Photo ID card from the Johnston County Board of Elections office.

How to Get a Photo ID Exception Form

How you obtain a Photo ID Exception Form depends on how you are voting in North Carolina.

Voting in Person

If you are voting in person—either on Election Day or during early voting—you do not need to obtain the form beforehand or print it out at home.

Simply inform the check-in official at your polling place that you are unable to provide an acceptable photo ID. They will provide you with the Photo ID Exception Form right there at the voting site. You will fill it out on the spot, claim your exception (such as a "reasonable impediment"), and then cast a provisional ballot.

Voting by Mail (Absentee)

If you are voting by mail, you have two options for obtaining the form so you can include it when returning your ballot envelope:

  1. Included with Materials: A blank Photo ID Exception Form is automatically included with the absentee ballot materials mailed to you by your county board of elections. You can fill out this physical form and place it in the designated clear pocket on the outside of your ballot container envelope.
  2. Accessible Online Portal: If you are a blind or visually impaired voter utilizing the NC Absentee Ballot Portal to request and mark your ballot online, you will be prompted within the digital portal to complete a Photo ID Exception Form electronically before submitting your ballot.
You can also find a draft copy of the Absentee Photo ID Exception form (PDF) hosted online by the NCSBE to review what it looks like before you receive your official materials.

Page last updated: September 17, 2026