Voting Process

What to Expect


Once you have registered to vote, voting in the City of Lowell is easy. The following information will help you successfully cast your ballot:
  1. Report to your voter polling location.
  2. Each polling location has a separate check-in and check-out table, used to allow for a full accounting of all ballots, reducing the chances of fraud.
  3. Since the voters list is arranged by street name, when you approach the check-in table, you will be asked for the following information:
    • The name of the street where you live at
    • The number of your residence
    • Your name
  4. Once the poll worker identifies you on the polling list, you will be given a ballot.
    • Note that in a Primary election, voters who are registered in a political party may only obtain a ballot for that party. If you are an unenrolled voter (commonly referred to as an independent voter), you may request the ballot of any party participating in the Primary election. You will not become registered in a political party because of your participation in a State Primary.
  5. Once you receive a ballot, you may then cast your vote(s) in the privacy of the voting booth.
    • You may vote for the choices available on the ballot, or if you prefer, write-in the name of a candidate in the space provided on the ballot.
    • If you find that you made an error in marking your ballot, you must return it to the poll worker at the check-in table where you were checked-in to have your ballot marked as "spoiled" in order to receive a new ballot.
    • If you are disabled and need assistance your may be accompanied by someone who can provide the appropriate assistance or request a poll worker to provide you with confidential, nonpartisan help.
  6. Once you have finished voting, you must then proceed to the check-out table, where you will be asked for the following information:
    • The name of the street where you live at
    • The number of your residence
    • Your name
  7. Once you have checked out, you will deposit your ballot into the ballot box, and have completed voting.

Unlisted Voters


What if your name isn't on the voter's list?

If your name does not appear on the list of voters, the local polling Warden will contact the City of Lowell's Election and Census Commission to determine if you are registered in another precinct or if you are considered an inactive voter. If you are registered in another precinct, and appear on another list within the City, you are required to go to that polling location and cast your ballot there.

If you are not on listed as an active voter, but believe you registered, you may request a "provisional" ballot. The provisional ballot allows you to cast your vote. The provisional ballot will be counted if it is determined that you are registered as a voter in the City of Lowell. The Election and Census Commission will review each provisional ballot to determine if the votes should be counted.

State Voter Laws


State law prohibits the display of political paraphernalia within one hundred and fifty (150) feet of the entrance to the polling location. Signs, stickers, and even lapel buttons are not permitted within this restricted zone.

If you have any comments, questions, or concerns regarding the voting process, please contact the Election and Census Commission at 978-674-1200 for assistance.