Vote-By-Mail Instructions

Mark, Seal, and Sign Your Envelope

Use this ballot to vote securely at home.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Mark your ballot

    • Follow the directions on the ballot.
    • Completely fill in the box next to your choice.

  2. Seal your envelope

    • Check that you have the return envelope with your name on it.
    • Put your ballot into the envelope and seal the envelope.

  3. Sign the envelope

    • Make sure your name is printed below the signature box before you sign.
    • Date and sign your name on the back of the envelope in ink.
    • Print your name and residential address.

  4. Return your ballot

Return Options

Mail Your Ballot

Mail your ballot on or before Election Day (no postage required).

Mailbox locations: ocvote.gov/mail

Secure Drop Box

Use one of the secure drop boxes located throughout Orange County.

Locations: ocvote.gov/dropbox

Vote Center

Drop off your ballot in person at any Orange County Vote Center.

Locations and hours: ocvote.gov/votecenter

Important Additional Information

  • If you make a mistake, call 714-567-7600 before Election Day.
  • Your envelope must be signed, dated, and postmarked on or before Election Day.
  • Voters may request translated election materials and accessible election materials.

How to Mark Your Vote-By-Mail Ballot

  • Follow the instructions at the top of each section.
  • Completely fill in the box with a black ink pen.

How NOT to Mark Your Ballot

  • Do NOT use checkmarks, slashes, or anything other than filling in the box.
  • You can make a correction, but do NOT initial or sign the corrections.
  • No extra marks.
  • Do NOT use a pencil or colored ink.

You may write in and vote for a candidate who is not on the ballot. To do so, neatly write the name of a qualified write-in candidate and fill in the box with a black ink pen.

Track your ballot at ocvote.gov/track

Orange County Registrar of Voters
1300 S. Grand Ave., Bldg. C
Santa Ana, CA 92705
Phone: 888-OCVOTES (888-628-6837)