Early voting has started in Georgia (but beware any ‘ballot selfies’)

Georgia voters can now cast early ballots ahead of the state's July 26 runoff election, with dozens of congressional, state and local primary races still to be decided statewide.

If you want to take advantage to get ahead of Election Day, check with your local elections office to find early voting locations.

Don’t forget to bring photo identification, which can include a Georgia driver’s license, even if it’s expired; a state-issued voter identification card; a valid U.S. passport; or a valid U.S. military photo ID.

No “ballot selfies” are allowed at the polls, so wait to snap a photo until you’re outside. It is illegal in Georgia to take pictures of a ballot or voting equipment, but the Secretary of State’s Office said last week they have seen voters in previous elections post “ballot selfies” on social media — something that could get you in trouble with the law.

Where Can I Vote?

Any voter registered in Georgia can vote early. Confirm your voter status online through the secretary of state's online "my voter page" website (www.mvp.sos.ga.gov/MVP/mvp.do).

You can use the same link to find a sample ballot or voting location. It’s important to check because a regular neighborhood polling place may not be open; often, local municipalities only open select sites during the state’s 21-day early-voting period.

Information about local elections and your “My Voter Page” can also be found on the state’s “GA Votes” mobile application. You can download the free app for both Apple and Android operating systems using either the iTunes app store for an iPhone or iPad, or Google Play for Android.