Kentucky Voting Rights Restoration

In all states, it's a felony to vote if your voting rights are currently revoked. If you are uncertain about your status from the information provided on this page, call 1-866-OUR-VOTE for more information.

Misdemeanor convictions in Kentucky 

You can vote while awaiting trial for any charge, even if incarcerated, as long as you have not lost your right to vote due to a prior conviction.

You lose the right to vote while incarcerated if you are convicted of a misdemeanor in Kentucky. Once released, you can register to vote as normal. 

Felony convictions in Kentucky

You lose your right to vote if you are convicted of a felony. You can't vote while incarcerated, while on probation, or while on parole. Your right to vote can only be restored by the Governor.  However, Governor Beshear has made the process effectively automatic. This is subject to change under future Governors, this page will be updated as needed. 

Next steps for restoring voting rights in Kentucky

If your sentence is completed, including parole or probation, you should check the status of your voting rights, apply to the Governor for a pardon if necessary, then you may register to vote and cast a ballot.

For more information, visit the Kentucky State page for Civil Rights Restoration.

To apply to the Governor for a pardon, use this form.

To check the status of your right to vote, you can use this tool.

 

Helpful U.S. Vote Foundation Resources

Click here for help with: 

  • Registering to vote

  • Requesting an absentee ballot

  • Requesting a mail-in ballot

Click here for help with finding your Election Official.