Can I vote while in jail?
People dealing with criminal offenses or who have a record are often unaware of their voting rights. Sharing this information is vital. If you are currently in jail or have friends or family members presently incarcerated, here is some helpful information on voting for those involved with the carceral system.
Voting from Jail
You CAN vote from jail if you are there due to a pending case or serving a sentence for a misdemeanor conviction.
You CANNOT vote from jail if you are serving a sentence for a felony conviction or awaiting transfer to state prison. Folks with felony convictions are only permitted to vote after they have served their given sentence.
Voting while on probation
If the person who wants to vote has a felony conviction then, they may vote if the following are true:
Pled “No Contest” (nolo contendere)
Sentenced under the First Offenders Act or the Conditional Discharge Statute and sentence was revoked.
Completed all terms of parole.
All fines were either paid, waived, or canceled.
If the person who wants to vote has a misdemeanor conviction then, they may vote by an Absentee Ballot if the following are true:
Are currently serving time for a misdemeanor
Still on probation for a misdemeanor
Still owe fines and fees
Still awaiting trial for a misdemeanor offense
To get an Absentee Ballot with a misdemeanor from the Georgia Secretary of State
For additional support, if your right to vote is threatened, contact the Election Protection Hotline at 866-OUR-VOTE.