Elections

Training: Frequently Asked Questions

If I sign up, am I obligated to be an election officer?

No. Signing up puts you on a list to be contacted by your county board of elections. The board will confirm your availability, check if you are qualified, and provide you with more information.

How do I become an election officer?

It’s easy! Sign up online at govote.ky.gov or contact the Fayette County Board of Elections at (859) 253-8352 or (859) 253-8354. You must live in Fayette County. For more information, click on “Working as an Election Officer.”

What positions are there for election officers?

Every polling location has at least four election officers. Each year in March, the County Board of Elections appoints:

Two Election Officers as Judges – One Democrat and one Republican. They help set up voting machines, issue ballots, and return supplies after the polls close.
One Election Officer as Clerk – Checks voter ID, checks in voters, completes forms, and picks up supplies before Election Day.
One Election Officer as Sheriff – Manages lines and makes sure no electioneering happens within 100 feet of the polls.

(Optional) Election Officer as Ballot Officers – Sometimes assigned to help issue ballots.

When is the training, and how long does it take?

Training includes two parts:

Online Training – Complete it at your own pace, anytime that works for you before your in-person class.
In-Person Class – A hands-on session that lasts about 1.5 hours.

In-person classes are offered on weeknights and weekends to fit your schedule.

What are the Election Day hours?

Election officers must be at their polling place by 5:15 a.m. and stay until all voters in line by 6:00 p.m. have voted, equipment is packed up, and supplies are returned.

Do election officers get paid?

Yes! You’ll earn $230 for working on Election Day. You’ll also get $20 for attending the required training session.

KRS 117.045 (11) Each election officer shall be paid a minimum of sixty dollars ($60) per election day served…