Voting while trans: Know your rights

Every trans and nonbinary person deserves to participate in our democracy without fear of discrimination or intimidation. Whether your identification doesn’t match your name or gender presentation, or you’re concerned about harassment at the polls, knowing your rights can help you prepare.

Your gender expression should not be a barrier to voting

• Explain that gender presentation does not determine voter eligibility.
• Note that voter ID requirements vary by state.
• Clarify that someone’s appearance, gender expression, or gender marker should not be used to discriminate against them.
• Direct readers to check their state’s voter ID requirements.

What if your name doesn’t match?

• Explain that people whose names differ between their identification and voter registration may still have options for voting.
• Encourage readers to review their state’s registration and identification requirements.
• Include guidance on speaking with an election official and asking about provisional ballots.

What if you’re harassed at the polls?

• Affirm that voters deserve to participate without intimidation or discrimination.
• Provide actionable steps, including speaking with the lead poll worker, documenting incidents when safe, and asking about provisional ballots when appropriate.

Make a plan to vote

• Confirm their voter registration and polling location.
• Review their state’s voter ID requirements.
• Check polling hours and required documentation.
• Save the Election Protection hotline.

Additional voting resources

• Election Protection — voter information, assistance, and election protection resources.
• Vote.org — voter registration, polling locations, and state-specific voting information.