What Documents Are Needed to Vote Under the SAVE Act?

If the SAVE Act were enacted, individuals registering to vote in federal elections may be required to provide documentary proof of citizenship.

Below are commonly recognized forms of proof of citizenship to vote under federal standards.

Birth Certificate

A certified U.S. birth certificate issued by a state, county, or territory is commonly used as proof of citizenship to vote. The document must generally be an official certified copy, not a hospital souvenir document.

U.S. Passport

A valid or expired United States passport is widely accepted as documentary proof of citizenship. Because passports are issued only to U.S. citizens (with limited exceptions), they are often considered one of the most straightforward forms of citizenship verification.

Naturalization Certificate

Individuals who became U.S. citizens through the naturalization process receive a Certificate of Naturalization from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This certificate serves as official proof of citizenship.

Certificate of Citizenship

A Certificate of Citizenship is issued to individuals who automatically acquired or derived U.S. citizenship through a parent. This document also serves as formal proof of citizenship.

Specific SAVE Act voter documentation requirements would ultimately depend on the final language of the legislation and implementing regulations.

For confirmation of acceptable documents, users should consult official federal and state election authorities.