Can you take a photo of your ballot? What the law says in each state

To vote or not to vote for a selfie, that is the question.

In some states, taking a photo with your ballot isn’t even an option.

Of Election Day It’s fast approaching, millions of people across the country are making plans to go to the polls, and many are excited to share their civic engagement with friends, family and – of course – social media.

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But make sure you are allowed to take a photo at your polling station first. Laws around sharing photos or other content from the polls vary, with states divided over how to both allow free speech and protect voting secrecy. Many states still have unclear laws about this practice, while others have restrictions on the time and place where photos can be taken and whether they can be sharedaccording to Ballotpedia.

Here’s what you need to know before voting with your ballot.

In these states you can have your photo taken at the polls with your own ballot

Here’s a look at the states you should go to if you want to take a photo on Election Day. Some of these states have specific rules governing when photos can be shared, so be sure to check your local laws about image sharing. Nearly all states specify that one can only take and share photos of one’s own ballot.

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In these states, you can only take photos with your own absentee ballot

These states do not allow photos to be taken while you are in or around a polling place when you cast your vote, but they do allow photos of mail-in or absentee ballots while you are at home.

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Don’t take photos of your own ballot in these states (period)

Some states allow photos of ballots before they are filled out, but not afterward. according to Ballotpedia. Others ban photos altogether. Fines and penalties vary by state if a voter violates laws or guidelines by taking a photo of their ballot. So check with your local officials or search your state’s statutes for more information.

States where voting selfie laws are not clear

In these states, there are no specific rules – or it is unclear – whether voting selfies are allowed, or outside polling stations. Double check your local regulations or contact local officials to confirm before taking photos.