North Carolina Voting Rights Restoration

Misdemeanor convictions in North Carolina

Can prisoners vote in jail? Generally, yes.

You do not lose your right to vote if you are convicted of a misdemeanor in North Carolina. 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 North Carolina

Can felons vote in North Carolina?

You lose your right to vote while incarcerated if you are convicted of a felony. Convicted felons cannot vote until they have finished any parole, probation or supervised release.

 

Next steps for restoring voting rights in North Carolina

If your sentence is completed, including parole or probation, you may register to vote and cast a ballot.

Starting on July 26, 2022, as soon as you are released from prison, you may register to vote and cast a ballot. (This is subject to currently pending ligitation and may change.  This page will be updated accordingly.)

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

For help with:

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

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For help with finding your Election Official.

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