Frequently asked questions about the elections
The IEC gives some information you should know
Also read:
• All your municipal ward candidates for the elections
• All your voting stations for August 3
Q: Can I vote if I registered but have lost my ID with the sticker in it?
A: Yes, just get a temporary identity certificate (TIC) that will be valid on election day. You can apply for your TIC at the Department of Home Affairs.
Q: Can I vote if I turn 18 soon after election day?
A: No, you must have turned 18 on or before the day on which the elections are proclaimed (published in the Government Gazette) to be able to vote.
Q: Can I vote if I will be in another town or province on election day?
A: You need to vote at the voting station at which you’re registered.
Q: Can I vote if my new ID book has not arrived yet?
A: Yes, you can vote if you have a temporary identity certificate (TIC) that is valid on election day.
Q: Can I vote on behalf of someone who is unable to get to their voting station?
A: No, every voter must vote in person at the voting station.
Q: Can I vote with my temporary registration certificate (TRC)?
A: No, you can only vote with your South African, green, bar-coded ID or a valid Temporary Identity Certificate (TIC). You can apply for a green, bar-coded ID or a valid TIC from the Department of Home Affairs.
Q: Can permanent residents vote in the elections?
A: No, only South African citizens with a green, bar-coded ID book can vote in elections.
Q: How does the IEC ensure security and non-intimidation at voting stations?
A: There are police and/or army personnel at every voting station to ensure your safety.
Q: I am blind. Can someone help me at the voting station?
A: You can take anyone who is at least 18 years old and not a party agent with you to the voting station to help you cast your vote. You can also ask the presiding officer at the voting station to help you and/or provide you with a voting aid known as a universal ballot template (UBT).
Q: I have registered, but I don’t want to vote. Will anything happen to me if I don’t vote?
A: No, voting is not compulsory in SA, however, voting is an important civic duty and we encourage all South Africans to participate.
