Voting After a Felony in Louisiana

Many people with a felony conviction in Louisiana can vote again, even while they are still on probation or parole. Here is how to know if you can vote and how to register.

Who Can Vote

Misdemeanors. A misdemeanor conviction never takes away your right to vote.
You finished your sentence. If you have completed your full felony sentence, including any probation or parole, you can vote.
You have been out for 5 years. If you are still on probation or parole but have not been in prison for that felony in the last 5 years, you can vote. This rule took effect March 1, 2019.
You are waiting for trial. Being held before trial does not take away your right to vote.

If you are in prison for a felony now, or you were released less than 5 years ago and are still on probation or parole, you cannot vote yet.

How to Register

Get a Voter Eligibility Certificate. If you are on probation or parole, or you were registered to vote before your conviction, ask your local Probation and Parole office for this certificate.
Register. Take the certificate to your parish Registrar of Voters office, or register online through the Louisiana Secretary of State.
Check your registration. Make sure you are on the voter rolls before Election Day.

Federal and Out-of-State Convictions

These follow the same rules as Louisiana convictions.

Does Expungement Help?

You do not need an expungement to vote. But clearing your record can help with jobs and housing. See Am I Eligible for Expungement and Jobs With a Criminal Record (Fair Chance Hiring).

Get Help

Get legal help at a JAC Reentry Legal Clinic.
Check if you can clear your record for free with the Expungement App.
Come to a free JAC expungement clinic.
Learn more about the JAC Expungement Program.

This page is general information, not legal advice. Contact your parish Registrar of Voters to confirm your status.