Can Felons Vote in Louisiana? Voting Rights Restoration

Misdemeanor convictions in Louisiana

Can prisoners vote in jail? Generally, yes.

You do not lose your right to vote if you are convicted of a misdemeanor in Louisiana. If you are incarcerated for a misdemeanor you should check voter registration status, register to vote if necessary, and request an absentee ballot from office administrators at your complex.

You can vote while awaiting trial for any charge, even if incarcerated, as long as you have not lost your right to vote due to a prior conviction.

Felony conviction in Louisiana

Can felons vote in Louisiana?

You lose your right to vote if you are convicted of a felony. You can't vote while incarcerated, while on probation, or while on parole for five (5) years after your release from prison.

After five (5) years on probation or parole or the completion of your full sentence, including probation or parole, whichever comes first, your right to vote is restored, even if you are on parole or probation.

Conviction of an election offense in Louisiana results in permanent loss of voting rights.

Next steps for restoring voting rights in Louisiana

After completing probation and/or parole or five (5) years after you are released from prison, even if you are on parole and/or probation, you may register to vote and cast a ballot. To register, you must additionally provide documentation to prove that you have completed your probation and/or parole or that you have not been incarerated within the last five years.

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In all states, it's a felony to vote if your voting rights are currently revoked. If you are uncertain about your status from the information provided on this page, call 1-866-OUR-VOTE for more information.

HELPFUL U.S. VOTE FOUNDATION RESOURCES

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Registering to vote
Requesting an absentee ballot
Requesting a mail-in ballot

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