This guide is a quick resource for Folly Beach residents based on the Charleston County Board of Voter Registration & Elections. It covers the essentials: who can vote, how to register, deadlines, voting options, and ID requirements.
Also, the Civic Club, together with the League of Women Voters, invites you to join them for two informative Candidate Forums. Learn more here.
Who Can Vote / Register
You are eligible if you:
- Are a U.S. citizen
- Live in Charleston County
- Will be at least 18 by the next election date charlestoncounty.gov+2charlestoncounty.gov+2
- Felony convictions: You can regain eligibility once your full sentence is completed, including parole or probation. charlestoncounty.gov
- Are not under a court order declaring you mentally incompetent charlestoncounty.gov
You can also register if you’re 17 and will turn 18 by the next general election; you can vote in primaries if you’ll be 18 by the general election. charlestoncounty.gov
Deadlines & Registration
- You must register at least 30 days before an election. charlestoncounty.gov
- Registration can be done online, by mail, fax, email, or in person. charlestoncounty.gov
- If registering by mail, email, fax or in person and not using the online system, you’ll need to provide either a valid photo ID or a document showing your name and county address (bank statement, utility bill, etc.). charlestoncounty.gov
How to Vote
You have three main options:
- In-person on Election Day at your assigned polling place. charlestoncounty.gov
- Early voting, at any Early Voting Center in Charleston County. charlestoncounty.gov
- Usually this is in the two weeks before the election, hours vary. charlestoncounty.gov
- Absentee (Vote by Mail), if you qualify. charlestoncounty.gov
Absentee Voting Details
You’re eligible to vote absentee if any of the following applies:
- You have work conflicts or care giving responsibilities
- You’re out of town or out of the country
- You are age 65 or older or have a disability or are physically unable to be at the polls charlestoncounty.gov
Process:
- Request an absentee ballot (in person, by phone, or by mail) charlestoncounty.gov
- Fill it out, sign it, have a witness sign (no notary needed), place in the return envelope charlestoncounty.gov
- Return it either by mail or in person by 7:00 PM on Election Day charlestoncounty.gov
ID & What to Bring
- You must present a valid, unexpired photo ID when voting in person. Options include: SC Driver’s License, SC DMV ID, Passport or passport card, Federal military ID, or SC voter registration card with photo. charlestoncounty.gov
- If you don’t have a photo ID, you may vote a provisional ballot, after signing an affidavit explaining why you didn’t have ID. The Board of Voter Registration & Elections will review it. charlestoncounty.gov
Polling Locations & Hours
- Polls are open on Election Day from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM. If you’re in line by 7:00 PM, you still get to vote. charlestoncounty.gov
- Early voting locations and times are posted ahead of each election. You may vote at any early voting center in Charleston County.
