What is an election judge?

An election judge plays a very important role in the election process. Election judges work as a team to ensure a fair and accessible election.

Election judges are trained before election day. They report about one hour before the polls open and serve until all duties are completed after the polls close at 8:00 p.m. The polls open at 10 a.m. for early voting and 7:00 a.m. on election day.

Why should you be an election judge?

• You get paid
• You help voters
• You are involved in the election process

Who can be an election judge?

Under Maryland law, you can serve as an election judge if you are:

• Age 17 or older*;
• Are a registered voter in Maryland;
• Physically and mentally able to work at least a 15-hour day;
• Willing to work outside your home precinct;
• Able to sit and/or stand for an extended period; and
• Can speak, read, and write English.

* If you are 17 years old, you may be able to serve if you show your local board of elections that you are qualified to be an election judge and a parent or guardian gives permission.

NOTE: Some positions require election judges to be able to lift boxes and other items weighing 10 to 25 lbs.

You cannot be an election judge and a:

• Candidate or currently hold a public or political office, including State and county political party central committees, or
• Chairman, campaign manager or treasurer for a political or candidate committee

How can I be an election judge?

To become an election judge, contact your County Board of Elections or complete the Election Judge Information Form (Word) and email it to info@elections.state.md.us. If you do not have Microsoft Word or email access, you can view and print the PDF Election Judge Information Form and fax it to 410-974-2019.

Attention: State of Maryland Employees

State of Maryland employees who are scheduled to work on election day can use administrative leave to serve as an election judge and keep the election judge pay. Note: Only State employees scheduled to work on election day can use administrative leave.

If you are a State employee and want to serve as an election judge, follow your normal procedures for requesting leave and contact your local board of elections to sign up as an election judge. The local boards of elections have the paperwork you may need to provide to your supervisor.