Florida Voting Rights Restoration

Misdemeanor convictions in Florida

Can prisoners vote in jail? Generally, yes.

You do not lose your right to vote if you are convicted of a misdemeanor in Florida. If you are incarcerated for a misdemeanor you should check voter registration status, register to vote if necessary, and request an absentee ballot from office administrators at your complex.

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.

Felony conviction in Florida

Can felons vote in Florida?

If you are convicted of a felony that does not involve murder or sexual abuse, and adjudicated as guilty, you lose your right to vote, until the following conditions are met:

  • You have completed your sentence, including probation, parole.
  • Full payment of all restitution, fines, and other fees. 
  • In this situation, with the above items addressed, a request for clemency is not required.

A felony conviction in another state makes a person ineligible to vote in Florida only if the conviction would make the person ineligible to vote in the state where the person was convicted.

If you are convicted of a felony involving murder or sexual abuse and adjudicated as guilty, you lose your right to vote in Florida. Your right to vote can only be restored by the State Clemency Board, after:

  • You have completed your sentence, including probation, parole.
  • Full payment of all restitution, fines, and other fees. 

U.S. Vote Foundation recommends that you consult the Florida Rights Restoration Coalition guide to Clemency in Florida for further essential information and to begin the Clemency process.

Next steps for restoring voting rights in Florida

For felonies not involving murder or sexual offense, if your sentence is completed, including parole or probation, and all restitution, fines, or other fees have been paid, you may register to vote and cast a ballot. 

For felonies involving murder or sexual offense, you must apply for a formal pardon from the State Clemency Board to have your voting rights restored, only after your full sentence is completed, including parole or probation. For assistance, contact the Florida Rights Restoration Coalition hotline by calling +1(407) 901-3749 or +1(877) 698-6830 (toll-free) or emailing info@floridarrc.org.

 

- Select a State -

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.

 

HELPFUL U.S. VOTE FOUNDATION RESOURCES

For help with:

  • Registering to vote
  • Requesting an absentee ballot
  • Requesting a mail-in ballot

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For help with finding your Election Official.

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