Nov. 8, 2016 Presidential Election: 5 Things to Know Before You Go

Tuesday is election day. This should not be news to you. Here are a few things you need to know before casting your ballot.

1. Where to Go. Some precincts change voting locations from election to election. Double check the Michigan Secretary of State's website to verify your polling place.

2. When to Go. Voting is open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Generally, lines are longest before and after work hours and during the lunch hour. If you can go during "off" hours, you'll have a shorter wait. Most state government offices are closed on Election Day; it's a holiday for state workers. If you're a state worker and have the day off, hang out at home and have an extra cup of joe before heading out. Let those working fools get there first and get to work.

3. What to Bring/Not Bring. It's always good to have ID with you no matter where you are, and poll workers will ask to see a photo ID. If you don't have one or forget it, you can still vote. You can have your phone with you at the polling place but leave it in your purse or pocket. No selfies are allowed. Not only is it illegal, stopping to get the perfect smile and angle can hold up the line. And that's just rude. Also, don't bring a sob story about voting last week and being sorry. The deadline for do-overs has passed.

4. Make Sure You're Registered. Voters in Michigan do not need to register for each election. Once registered, always registered as long as you don't move out of your precinct. Deadline for registering was Oct. 11. You can double check your registration status here.

5. Do Not Be Intimidated. Except for very few circumstances, you have a right to vote. Some news outlets are reporting that there may be efforts at polling places to intimidate voters. If you have questions, ask a voting official, such as someone sitting at the desk where voters are checking in. Do not let anyone who is not an official precinct worker tell you what you can and can't do. Some voters are also concerned about new voting technology. If you are worried that you won't understand how to cast your ballot, ask an election official to help you.

Photo by phgaillard via FlickrCommons