Office of Elections

Aloha,

For voters with disabilities, read on to learn about Hawaii’s accessible voting services. This guide highlights accessible voting options so that you can decide which voting method works best for you and your individual needs.

What Are My Voting Options?

Vote at home with a paper ballot

• If reviewing, marking, and returning your paper ballot poses any challenges, you can ask for help.
• You’re permitted to ask a friend, family member, or caretaker, to help read through your ballot, mark your choices, and be your witness if you cannot sign the return envelope independently.

Next steps: By registering to vote, you’ll automatically receive a mail ballot every election. No separate request is needed.

Vote at home with an accessible electronic ballot

• With this option, your electronic ballot is securely delivered to you via e-mail. You can then use your own at-home assistive devices to independently read and mark your ballot.

Next steps: When registering to vote, check the option to request an accessible electronic ballot and affirm that you meet the qualifications. You’ll need to provide your email address. If you’re already registered to vote, you can make the request by updating your current voter registration.

Click here to try out an accessible electronic ballot.

Vote at a voter service center using a ballot marking device

• Accessible ballot marking devices are available at all voter service centers statewide. These locations are open for up to 10 business days leading up to Election Day, so that you have plenty of time to plan your visit.
• Some features include:
  • Large touchscreen interface
  • Rotary wheel console to move through the ballot
  • Compatibility with tactile switches and “sip and puff devices”
  • Adjustable text size and screen contrast for increased visibility
  • Headphone capability for audio access

Next steps: Registering ahead of your visit may reduce your wait time at a voter service center.

Click here to watch a demonstration of the ballot marking device.

Am I Allowed to Receive Assistance?

Yes, you have the right to ask for assistance in the registration and voting process. If you need assistance with registering to vote, or reviewing, marking, and returning your ballot, you can have a trusted individual, like a family member or caretaker, provide you with the help you need.

Be mindful that to protect you against voter intimidation or persuasion and maintain the integrity of the election process, Hawaii law prohibits your employer or union agent from providing you with voting assistance. Additionally, candidates are prohibited from assisting voters with their ballot.

What Resources Are Available?

Instructions for registering to vote and resources about Hawaii elections are available in braille and audio formats. These resources can be requested from our office, the Hawaii State Library of the Blind and Print Disabled, or your County Elections Division.

Additionally, our website, including the Online Voter Registration System, is compatible with screen readers. Learn more about Hawaii elections and take advantage of the quickest way to register to vote at elections.hawaii.gov.

If you have questions regarding any of these services, please feel free to contact us at (808) 453-VOTE (8683) or email us at [email protected].