Voting While Disabled in Nashville

Disabled voters in Nashville have multiple options for voting safely, comfortably, and legally. This guide covers accessibility features, important dates, curbside voting, absentee rules, transportation tips, and what to expect at Tennessee polling places.

2026 Tennessee Election Dates

  • Registration Deadline: October 7, 2026
  • Early Voting: October 14–29, 2026
  • Absentee Request Deadline: October 29, 2026
  • Election Day: November 3, 2026

Official election calendar: Davidson County Election Commission

Ways Disabled Voters Can Vote

Early Voting (Most Accessible)

Early voting sites in Nashville typically have shorter lines, more parking, and more staff available to help. This is the easiest option for many disabled voters.

Election Day Voting

  • Every polling place must have an ADA-compliant voting machine
  • You may request curbside voting
  • You may bring someone to assist you
  • You may request to skip the line if you cannot stand

Absentee Voting

Tennessee allows absentee voting for voters with temporary or permanent disabilities. Request your ballot here:

Tennessee Secretary of State – Elections

Permanent Absentee List

Voters with permanent disabilities may apply once and automatically receive ballots for every election. Requires a doctor’s note.

Accessibility Features at Nashville Polling Places

Curbside Voting

If you cannot enter the polling place, a poll worker will bring a ballot to your vehicle. No medical proof required.

Assistance Inside

You may bring a caregiver, friend, or family member to help you read or mark your ballot. Poll workers may also assist.

Accessible Voting Machines

  • Audio ballots
  • Large print
  • Tactile buttons
  • Adjustable height

Service Animals

Service animals are allowed in all polling places.

What You Need to Bring

Tennessee requires a photo ID for in-person voting.

  • Tennessee driver’s license
  • Tennessee state ID
  • U.S. passport
  • Military ID
  • Tennessee handgun carry permit

Absentee voters do not need photo ID.

Transportation Options

WeGo AccessRide: Door-to-door paratransit service.

Note: AccessRide requires an application and an in‑person or phone evaluation to determine eligibility. Approval is not immediate, so apply early.

https://www.wegotransit.com/ride/transit-services/access/

Uber WAV availability varies by neighborhood.

Your Legal Rights as a Disabled Voter

  • You cannot be denied curbside voting
  • You cannot be denied assistance
  • You cannot be denied priority access if you cannot stand
  • Polling places must be accessible under the ADA

If you experience discrimination, report it to the Davidson County Election Commission:
https://www.nashville.gov/departments/elections

Quick Voting Checklist

  • Check your registration status
  • Choose early voting, Election Day, or absentee
  • Arrange transportation
  • Bring your ID
  • Request curbside voting if needed
  • Ask for the ADA machine
  • Bring a caregiver if you want assistance