Election Judges FAQ's

  1. What are the Qualifications of an Election Judge?
  2. How can I become an Election Judge?
  3. What are the duties of an Election Judge?
  4. How much are election judges paid?
  5. I'm in high school; can I be an Election Judge?

What are the Qualifications of an Election Judge?
Illinois statutes specify the qualifications for being an election judge. The qualifications are:

  1. be citizen of the United States and entitled to vote at the next election*
    *except for high school junior/senior judges under 18 years of age
  2. be of good repute and character and not subject to the registration requirement of the Sex Offender Registration Act
  3. be able to speak, read and write the English language
  4. be skilled in the four fundamental rules of arithmetic (addition, subtraction, division and multiplication)
  5. be of good understanding and capable
  6. not be a candidate for any office at the election and not be an elected committeeperson

Applicants must declare their party affiliation in order to serve as an election judge because judges must be representative of both major political parties.

How can I become an Election Judge?
Judges of election are selected by the county board from lists furnished by the chairmen of the county central committees of the two leading political parties. For each precinct, three judges are appointed from one party and two from another.

Contact the Chairperson of the party of your choice Republican or Democratic or submit an application on-line to the County Election Office.

What are the duties of Election Judges?
Duties of Election Judges

How much are Election Judges Paid?
Election Judge's are paid $150 for Election Day and are required to attend a training class once every two years. Judges who have not attended training, but are serving as a last minute replacement, are paid $100 for Election Day.

The two election judges (one from each major political party) that return the supplies at the conclusion of Election Day will receive additional compensation.

if I'm in high school; can I be an Election Judge?
Yes, qualified high school juniors and seniors can be appointed to serve as Election Judges. High School Principals are contacted prior to elections to provide qualifying students applications, which must be signed by both the student's principal and parent/guardian. Click here for more information.