Election Basics
A little know-how goes a long way.
Wait, what does everyone actually do?
You see the names. You see the promises. But what are these people actually responsible for?
Here's the quick version.
This is a general guide to elections in Canada. Local, provincial, territorial and federal rules vary. Always follow the official election authority for your area.
Mayor
The person who leads council. Not the person who makes every decision.
In many municipalities, the mayor chairs council meetings, helps provide leadership and represents the municipality. Decisions are made collectively by council.
Municipal Council
The people making decisions about your community.
- Local budgets and property taxes
- Housing, zoning and development
- Roads, infrastructure, services and bylaws
- Community priorities
Some communities elect councillors at large, others by ward or neighbourhood. Municipal structures differ across Canada.
School Trustees
People helping govern public school districts where school boards are elected.
School trustees may oversee budgets, policies and long-term planning. School governance and trustee elections differ by province and territory.
For more information on responsibilities, consult your provincial or territorial municipal affairs department and education ministry.
Never voted before? Here's what to expect.
First time voting? Here's a typical in-person process. Exact steps may differ at your polling place.
Arrive at the voting location
Go to an official polling location during voting hours. Election workers can show you where to go.
Check in
A worker will usually ask your name and confirm your eligibility. You may need to register or confirm your address if the rules for your election require it.
Show your identification
Bring identification accepted for your particular election. The number and type of documents, proof-of-address rules, and alternative identification procedures differ across jurisdictions. Not every election requires two pieces of ID.
Which documents can I bring?
Depending on the election, examples may include a government photo ID, a health card, a utility bill or other documents that confirm your identity and address. These are examples only, not a universal accepted-document list.
Check the official rules for the election you're voting in:
- Local elections in British Columbia — identification rules
- Provincial elections in British Columbia — identification rules
- Federal elections across Canada — accepted voter identification
For local elections outside B.C., or provincial and territorial elections elsewhere in Canada, consult the appropriate election authority for that jurisdiction.
Accepted identification and eligibility rules vary. The links above are official sources for British Columbia and federal elections; verify the relevant rules before voting.
Receive your ballot
An election worker will provide the official ballot and explain how to mark it. Check how many candidates you may select for each office.
Mark your choices privately
Go to the voting booth or screened area. Your vote is secret.
Follow the directions printed on your ballot: you may be asked to fill an oval, mark an X, or use another approved method. Do not select more candidates than the ballot allows.
Unmarked oval — no selectionFilled oval — selection on a ballot using ovalsIllustration only; not all elections use ovals. Submit your ballot
Keep your selections concealed and follow the election worker's instructions for depositing or submitting your ballot.
You're done!
Once your ballot has been accepted, you're finished.
Look at you, you voting machine.
What if I make a mistake?
Ask an election worker before submitting your ballot. Rules for replacing a spoiled ballot vary.
What if I need help voting?
Ask an election worker about assistance and accessible voting options while protecting the secrecy of your vote.
Can anyone see who I voted for?
Ballot secrecy is a fundamental part of voting in Canada. Follow instructions for keeping your selections concealed.
What if I'm nervous?
Ask an election worker to explain the process without influencing your choice.
Official national guidance: Elections Canada. For local, provincial and territorial voting rules, use the election authority responsible for that election.
A few common questions
Do I have to vote for someone in every race?
You can generally choose fewer candidates than the maximum permitted, but follow the rules printed on your ballot.
Is My Picks my actual vote?
No. It's a personal planning list. You still need to cast your official ballot.
Do I need to research every candidate?
Not necessarily. Compare positions on issues that matter to you, and follow the linked sources where you want more detail.
Who can vote?
Eligibility depends on the election and jurisdiction. Age, citizenship, residency, registration and other requirements can differ. Check with the election authority for your municipality, province, territory or federal riding.
What identification do I need?
Rules vary between elections. See Step 3: accepted voter ID and official links.
Where do I find out when and where to vote?
Check official election information for dates, hours, advance voting and polling locations. Confirm that the location applies to your specific election.
What's the difference between municipal, provincial and federal elections?
Municipal: local services, budgets, bylaws and planning. Provincial or territorial: regional legislation and responsibilities such as health care and education. Federal: elect Members of Parliament to Canada's House of Commons. Some responsibilities overlap.
What if I don't agree with everything a candidate says?
Compare their documented positions and decide which issues are most important to you.
Ready to vote?
Before you go, check the accepted voter ID for your election in Step 3, confirm the date and polling place with the official election authority, and review your choices.