Under Review

Note Many new Texas laws took effect on September 1st, 2025. We are working on reviewing this page and making updates if needed. However, information may be out of date until our review is complete. For help locating current laws, ask a librarian.

Voting with a Felony Conviction

Once someone has "fully discharged" their sentence or has been pardoned, their right to vote is automatically restored in Texas. However, it is not always clear as to when a sentence has been fully completed.

Texas Law

Article 6, Section 1 of the Texas Constitution
This section governs the classes of persons not allowed to vote.
Section 11.002 of the Texas Election Code
This section governs who is qualified to vote in Texas.
Section 13.001 of the Texas Election Code
This section governs who is eligible to register to vote.
Section 16.031 of the Texas Election Code
A voter's registration shall be canceled immediately upon receipt of notice of a felony conviction.

Understanding the Law

Restore Your Vote
This website, created by the Campaign Legal Center, allows users to answer key questions about their convictions and determine if they are eligible to vote right now, or eligible to go through the process to restore their right to vote.
Voting Rights for Ex-Offenders by State
An overview of voting rights laws for each U.S. state by the nonprofit organization, NonProfit Vote.
Voting in Texas: Tools and Tips
This Texas Law Help article has answers to frequently asked questions on voting, including where to vote, early voting, and ID requirements.
Effect of Felony Conviction on Voter Registration
A 2004 memo from the Texas Secretary of State which provides additional details on what is considered to be a "final conviction" in regards to voting restrictions.
Can’t Pay, Can’t Vote: A National Survey on the Modern Poll Tax
A 2019 study from the Georgetown Law Civil Rights Clinic discussing how the ability to vote for many people with a felony conviction across the U.S. is denied due to outstanding fines and fees related to their conviction. They also specifically address Texas' "implicit" laws requiring fines, fees and restitution be paid as a condition of their parole.

Note The library cannot tell you what the law means for your situation.

Texas State
Law Library

Reentry Resources for Former Prisoners

Under Review

Voting with a Felony Conviction

Texas Law

Understanding the Law