Can You Vote from Jail in Maryland? What People in Cecil County Detention Need to Know

Here's the key rule in Maryland: you cannot register to vote if you're currently serving a sentence of imprisonment for a felony conviction. That phrase - "currently serving" - is what matters. If that doesn't describe your situation, you may still be eligible to register and vote, even while being held at Cecil County Detention Center.

No. Being held at Cecil County Detention doesn't automatically disqualify you. The only disqualifying condition under Maryland law is actively serving a sentence of imprisonment for a felony conviction. If that's not your situation, don't assume you're barred just because you're in custody. Unsure how your case fits? Contact the Cecil County Board of Elections directly before mailing anything.

For registration to count, the form must be completed, signed, and mailed to the County Board of Elections. Maryland requires an original signature - faxed or emailed forms won't be processed. If you're helping from the outside, focus on getting that paper form signed and into the mail. Shortcuts like scans or emails can cost you the chance to register in time.

Timing matters. Maryland's voter registration application must be postmarked at least 21 days before an election. When someone is registering from jail, build in extra time - getting the form to them, getting it signed, and getting it back in the mail all takes longer than you'd expect. Waiting until the last minute can easily push the postmark past the deadline.

Need to confirm where to send the registration form or have questions about voting while incarcerated? Contact the Cecil County Board of Elections at 200 Chesapeake Blvd., Ste. 1900, Elkton, MD 21921-6395. You can also call 410-996-5310 or email voting@ccgov.org to verify what to do in your specific situation.

Quick Checklist

• ✓ Confirm the person’s eligibility first (the main disqualifier is currently serving a sentence of imprisonment for a felony conviction).
• ✓ Make sure the voter registration form is completed and signed with an original signature (no fax or email submissions).
• ✓ Mail the signed form to the Cecil County Board of Elections: 200 Chesapeake Blvd., Ste. 1900, Elkton, MD 21921-6395.
• ✓ Mail early enough to meet the deadline: the application must be postmarked no later than 21 days before the election.
• ✓ If you want peace of mind, follow up with the county elections office to confirm the form was received (410-996-5310 or voting@ccgov.org).