Vote is a way of making a decision, usually amongst a group of people. For example, members of a club or society may decide who should be their president by voting. Likewise, voters in an election might select one of several options to vote on or decide how to change the laws of a country.
To vote in a federal election, you must be a Canadian citizen who is at least 18 years old on election day and registered to vote. To vote at a polling station, you must show your citizenship card or other proof of identity and address. Once you are verified, an election worker will give you a ballot. You mark the ballot behind a screen and then fold it to keep your vote secret. When you are done, put it in a ballot box.
A voter can choose from the list of candidates in their riding or write the name of a candidate not on the ballot. They can also leave a blank or “none of the above” vote, which is counted as a vote. It is against the law for employers to interfere with an employee’s right to vote, including by requiring them to come in late or not allow them to leave early to vote.
The National Register of Electors is the permanent database that lists the names of all voters in Canada who are eligible to vote in federal elections. Once an election is called, Elections Canada sends a voter information card to each of these electors. The cards tell when and where to vote. They also provide information on the number to call if they need an interpreter or other special services at the polling station.