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What to expect at the polling station

Voting for the first time?

Here’s what happens, one step at a time. This is the ordinary process at your assigned polling station.

Before you go

  • Check your assigned polling station’s address and number using the official lookup. Special voting arrangements have separate rules.
  • Bring your Israeli identity card, a valid Israeli passport or a valid Israeli driving licence. Some official service IDs are also accepted; see the official FAQ.
  • Most stations open from 07:00 to 22:00. Some have shorter hours, so check your own station.
  • Look up your chosen list’s official ballot letters before you arrive.
Find your polling station — official information ↗Central Elections Committee: voting FAQs ↗

1Check in

Show your ID to the polling committee. They check your details and give you an official voting envelope.

2Go behind the screen

Take the envelope into the private voting booth. You will find the ballot slips there. If you need physical assistance, speak to the polling secretary before entering.

Pencil illustration of a privacy screen around a table with trays of ballot slips.

3Choose one slip

Choose one printed slip for the list you want and put it inside the official envelope. There is no box to tick: you choose a slip. Keep your choice hidden.

Pencil illustration of six compartments containing ballot slips marked אמת, ב, בד, בי, בקר and ג. These are examples, not the full set of lists.

4Put the envelope in the ballot box

Leave the booth and place the envelope in the ballot box in front of the polling committee. That completes the voting process.

Pencil illustration of a hand placing a closed envelope in a ballot box.

Illustrations only. The six ballot-letter examples are a selection, not official ballot papers or the full set of lists. Equipment and layouts can vary.

A few common questions

Do I need the voter notice that came in the mail?

No. The notice helps you find your station, but you do not need it to vote. You do need an accepted identification document.

Do I have to glue the envelope shut?

No. The official FAQ says there is no obligation to glue it shut. Keep your choice out of sight.

Can I take a photograph?

Do not take photographs in the polling station or behind the voting screen.

What if a slip is missing, damaged or something is unclear?

Speak to the polling secretary before casting your envelope. Ask for an explanation rather than guessing.

What if I need accessibility arrangements or assistance?

Check the official FAQ before setting out. Special accessible polling stations and assistance behind the screen have eligibility rules; the polling secretary can explain them.

Do I have to tell anyone how I voted?

Your vote is secret. Choose your slip behind the screen and keep it inside the envelope. You do not have to tell other people which list you chose.