What is an Election Judge?

An Election Judge plays a very important role in the electoral process by administering voting procedures in an assigned precinct and ensuring a fair and accessible election for all eligible voters. Without Election Judges, there would be no elections!

Election Judges receive training before the election and serve on Election Day from 6:00 a.m. until all duties are completed after the polls close at 8:00 p.m.

Why should you be an Election Judge?

• You will be paid for working on Election Day and for the training you receive. The amount of money you will be paid varies by county.
• You will receive an increased appreciation for the democratic process.
• You will have facilitated the right to vote for your fellow citizens.

Who can be an Election Judge?

Under Maryland law, you can serve as an Election Judge if you:

• Are a registered voter in Maryland and
• Can speak, read, and write English.

In order to encourage young adults to serve as Election Judges, Maryland allows 17 year olds who are not registered voters to serve as Election Judges. A 17 year old can serve if he or she demonstrates, to the satisfaction of the county Board of Elections, the ability to speak, read, and write English, and his or her parent or guardian gives permission. 

Bilingual Election Judges are also needed.

Attention: State of Maryland Employees

Under a State law enacted in 2003, State of Maryland employees who are scheduled to work on Election Day are entitled to use administrative leave to serve as an Election Judge and keep the compensation received for service as an Election Judge. Note: Only State employees scheduled to work on Election Day are entitled to use administrative leave.

If you are a State employee and are interested in serving as an Election Judge, please follow your normal procedures for requesting leave and contact your County Board of Elections to sign up as an Election Judges. The County Boards of Elections have the necessary paperwork to assist you in justifying your use of administrative leave.

How can I be an Election Judge?

In order to become an Election Judge, you can either 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