Decision ’94 / SPECIAL GUIDE TO CALIFORNIA’S ELECTIONS : Preparing Yourself to Vote

Absentee Balloting: Applications for absentee ballots are on the back page of your sample ballot. You may also request an absentee ballot from your county registrar’s office. Applications may be submitted to the registrar through Nov. 1. Ballots must be received by the registrar by Nov. 8, Election Day.

* Where to Vote: Your sample ballot should tell you where to vote. If you need to find out where your polling place is located, or have other general voting questions, call your county registrar at one of the numbers listed below. One way to find out your polling place location is to ask a neighbor. Polling places are marked with flags.

* Hours of Voting: Statewide hours are 7 a.m. to 8 p.m., Tuesday, Nov. 8.

Voter Information Numbers

* A reminder: Although registrars will have additional phone lines set up for Election Day, numbers are frequently busy, so be patient and give yourself plenty of time.

Los Angeles: (310) 462-2748

Orange: (714) 567-7600

San Diego: (619) 694-3400; (619) 570-1061; (619) 565-5800

Ventura: (805) 654-2781

Riverside: (909) 275-8700; (800) 773-VOTE

San Bernardino: (909) 387-8300

Note: The secretary of state also has a 24-hour voter information hot line, (800) 345-VOTE. The Los Angeles County registrar’s 24-hour voter line is (800) 481-VOTE.

* Sample Ballots and Copies of Measures: If you are registered to vote in the November election, you should have received your sample ballot and ballot pamphlet with the text of the measures. If you have not received these materials, call the numbers listed above. Contact your City Hall for information on local municipal issues.

* Candidate Information: Project Vote Smart, an independent, non-affiliated organization, offers information on candidates’ backgrounds, campaign finances, voting records and issue positions. Call (800) 622-SMART.

* Violations: Report violations to the county registrar or the secretary of state’s office. Examples of violations include intimidating voters, voting twice, voting as someone else, soliciting or purchasing votes near polling areas or offering anything of value for voting, such as giveaways and contests based on voted ballot stubs.

* How to Register for the Next Election: The deadline to register for the November general election has passed. For other elections, voter registration forms are usually available at post offices, libraries, fire stations, DMV offices, city halls and county offices. You should re-register if you move, change your name or want to change your party affiliation.