Vote is the process by which you elect people to represent your interests and beliefs. It’s a vitally important right that all eligible citizens should have and exercise.

Voting can happen either in person or by post, depending on what type of election you are voting in. Once you are registered to vote you will receive a poll card telling you where and when you can go to vote on election day, usually in community buildings such as local halls or schools. You can usually vote from early in the morning until 10pm at night on voting day.

A voting system consists of hardware and software to perform its intended function. The software (called application logic) is programmed in advance and includes a set of rules that determines how to operate the hardware, which is referred to as the ‘branch’. The software is tested to ensure it meets requirements and complies with the branch’s specific operating instructions.

The presiding officer or poll clerk writes the voter’s elector number next to a unique identifying number on each ballot paper issued. This list linking voters to their ballot papers is then sealed inside a packet that can only be opened by a court order if the election result is challenged.

The minimum documents you need to bring with you to register vary between states but they typically include a state ID or driver’s license and proof of address. You may also need to provide other types of documentation, but you should check with your state’s elections office to find out what documentation they accept.