How to Mark Your Ballot

Carefully read and follow all instructions printed on your ballot.


To ensure your vote counts:

  Bullet PointUse a blue or black ink pen.
  Bullet PointCompletely fill in the Oval to the left of the response of your choice. 

 Fill in the oval

To write-in a candidate whose name is not on the ballot:

Bullet PointFill in the oval to the left of the write-in line for the contest you wish to cast a write-in vote.
Write the candidate's first and last name on the write-in line.
   
 

 SoS Arrow

Any abbreviation, misspelling, or minor variation shall be disregarded in determining the validity of the write-in vote as long as the intended candidate can be determined.

 SoS Arrow Writing the last name only will be considered invalid (unless the individual is registered with a single name).
 
 SoS Information LogoORS 254.505 "An elector may not place on the ballot a sticker bearing the name of a person or use any other method or device, except writing or using a voting machine, to vote for a person whose name is not printed on the ballot. Any ballot that has a sticker or other device is void and may not be counted."
 
Failure to fill in the oval for the write-in will not invalidate the vote for the candidate.

Fill in the oval and write in name

Check your ballot carefully!

  Bullet Point
Make sure you have completely filled in the ovals next to your choices.
  Bullet PointThe Ballot may have contents printed on front and back.
  Bullet PointYou do not have to vote on all contests. Those you do vote on will still count.
  Bullet PointYou cannot change your vote once you have returned your ballot. 

If you vote for more candidates than allowed or you vote both Yes and No on a measure, it is called an overvote. Your vote will not count for that candidate or measure.
 
Overvote will not count
 
If you overvote or make a mistake on your ballot, contact the Elections Office to request a replacement ballot.

Any person who, by use of force or other means, unduly influences an elector to vote in any particular manner or to refrain from voting is subject to a fine. (ORS 254.470)

 Contact the Elections Division 

Contact:

 Elections
  3700 SW Murray Blvd  
Suite: 101
  Beaverton, OR 97005
  Directions and map

Mailstop:

 3

Building:

 Murray Place

Floor:

 1

Phone:

 (503) 846-5800

Fax:

 (503) 846-5810

Email:

 Elections