Become an Officer of Elections

Become an Officer of Elections

Officers of Elections are essential to the smooth operation of our voting process. By serving as an Officer of Elections, you help ensure that elections run efficiently, securely, and fairly. While poll watchers are volunteers, Officers of Elections do get paid for their time. Both are equally important. In either role, your commitment is vital to maintaining the integrity of our republic, making sure it is easy to vote and hard to cheat.

How to Become an Officer of Elections in Virginia

1. Confirm Your Eligibility: To become an Officer of Elections, you must be a citizen of the United States and a registered voter in Virginia. Additionally, you should have a keen interest in safeguarding the electoral process.
2. Make Application: You MUST apply to your local General Registrar/Electoral Board, who will appoint you to be an Officer of Elections.
3. Take the VFE Zoom Officer of Election classes: You can attend these classes by zoom, when available. See the above related button or appropriate links to Zoom training registration.
4. Express Your Interest: Many localities have their own election officer interest form. However, if your locality does not have one of these forms, you can fill one out from the state here. 
5. Must take the State offered Training: Once your application is approved by your local Electoral Board, You MUST attend the local Officer of Elections training sessions. These sessions are designed to familiarize you with election procedures, voting equipment, and your responsibilities on Election Day. Training ensures you are well-prepared to handle any situation that may arise. You can view the training information here. Consider taking third party supplemental trainings as well. 
6. Assignment: After training, you will be assigned to a polling place. Assignments are based on your location and the needs of the election office. You will receive information about your polling place, the hours you need to work, and any specific duties you will perform.
7. On Election Day: As an Officer of Elections, your tasks will include setting up the polling place, checking in voters, providing ballots, assisting voters as needed, and ensuring the polling place operates smoothly. At the end of the day, you will help close the polls and secure the ballots for counting.
8. (Optional) Request Assignment: You may choose to request assignment at the Central Absentee Precinct (CAP).

We encourage you to join us in our mission to secure fair and free elections. By becoming an Officer of Elections, you play an essential part in maintaining the integrity of our sacred processes. Your vigilance ensures that every eligible voter can cast their ballot without obstacles, and that the election results are accurate and trustworthy. Together, we can make sure it remains easy to vote and hard to cheat. Become a guardian of our republic today!

Important Links: 

Officer of Election Interest Form (virginia.gov)

Officers of Election – Training| Rise 360 (articulate.com)