Kentucky Voting Rights Restoration

Misdemeanor convictions in Kentucky

Can prisoners vote in jail?

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 conviction in Kentucky

Can felons vote in Kentucky?

Non-violent felony convictions in Kentucky

You lose your right to vote if you are convicted of a non-violent felony. You can't vote while incarcerated, while on probation, or while on parole. Your right to vote is automatically restored once you complete your full sentence.

Treason, bribery, and violent felony convictions in Kentucky

You lose your right to vote if you are convicted of a felony involving treason, bribery, or a violent crime,  or if you are convicted of a felony outside of Kentucky. You can't vote while incarcerated, while on probation, or while on parole. Once you have completed all terms of your sentence including probation and parole, your right to vote may only be restored by the petitioning the Governor.

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.

- 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.

 

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