Precinct Officials - Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to the most frequent questions about volunteering to be a Precinct Official.

Why volunteer?

1. Get involved and learn about the American Democratic Process.
2. Earn extra money.
3. Fund-raise for a non-profit organization.
4. Perform a civic duty and community service.

What days do I volunteer on?

You volunteer on the days of the elections. There are two election days:

Primary Election
Saturday, August 11, 2012

General Election
Tuesday, November 6, 2012

How do I become a precinct official?

Call the office for your area listed here:

Can anyone become a precinct official?

Yes. The Office of Elections and the offices of the county clerks welcome and encourage all qualified individuals to sign up and become a precinct official.

The minimum qualifications to become a precinct official are:

• Be 16 years old or before June 30 of the election year.
• Be a registered voter in the State of Hawaii
• Able to read (i.e., 11 point font) and write English
• Able to lift 25-35 pounds
• Attend a training session and pass a certification exam

Restrictions to be an eligible Election Day Official (HRS §11-72):

• No parent, spouse, child, sibling, or reciprocal beneficiary of a candidate may serve as a precinct official in any precinct where votes may be cast for the candidate
• No candidate for elective office may serve as a precinct official in the same election in which the person is a candidate
• No candidate who failed to be nominated in the primary or special election may serve as a precinct official in the following general election

What hours will I volunteer?

5:30 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

• The polls are open from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
• Precinct officials arrive at 5:30 a.m. and leave one hour after the polls close

Where do I volunteer?

Polling places are located throughout the state. You will be assigned to a site near your home, if possible.

Will I get training?

Yes, training is required to work on election day. After the Office of Elections or County Clerks Office receives your recruitment form, you will be contacted to attend a training session.

Will I be paid?

Yes, you will be compensated for your services.

• Pay rate depends on position fulfilled.
• The basic rate earned is $85 per election.

Political Party Submission

Pursuant to Hawaii Revised Statutes §11-72, all qualified political parties shall submit names to the Chief Election Officer by 4:30 p.m. on the sixtieth day prior to the close of filing for any Primary Election.