NASHVILLE — Davidson County voters will have the opportunity to cast their ballots early beginning Friday, July 17, for the Thursday, Aug. 6 State and Federal Primary, County General and Oak Hill Municipal Election. Early voting continues through Saturday, Aug. 1, with 15 voting locations open across the county.

Election officials are encouraging voters to take advantage of early voting to avoid long lines and resolve any registration or polling place issues before Election Day.

This year’s election carries added importance because Tennessee lawmakers approved new congressional district boundaries during a special legislative session, changing district lines for many voters in Davidson County. As a result, some residents may have different congressional districts, polling places or ballots than they did in previous elections.

Before heading to the polls, voters should verify their voter registration, district information and assigned polling location using the Tennessee Secretary of State’s online voter lookup at tnmap.tn.gov/voterlookup. Voters can also view a personalized sample ballot through the Metro Nashville Election Commission before casting their vote.

Registered voters may cast an early ballot at any Davidson County early voting location during the early voting period. However, on Election Day, voters must vote at their assigned polling place.

Voters should also remember to bring a valid government-issued photo ID. Acceptable identification includes a Tennessee driver’s license or photo ID issued by the State of Tennessee or the federal government, even if it has expired. College student IDs are not accepted under Tennessee law.

In addition to statewide and congressional contests, voters will cast ballots for state legislative races, county offices, judicial retention questions and local judicial positions. Because of the newly drawn congressional districts, election officials urge voters not to assume they are voting in the same district as in previous elections.

For many Nashville residents, taking a minute to confirm registration and polling information before voting could prevent delays and ensure their ballot is counted in one of the year’s most important elections.