The Virginia primary: 10 things you need to know

(1) The presidential primary in Virginia is Tuesday, March 1, but absentee voting by mail has already started. You can either vote in the Democratic or Republican party primary – not both.

(2) Voters in the Democratic primary have three choices: Hillary Clinton, Bernie Sanders, or Martin O’Malley.

(3) The Republican primary ballot lists these candidates: Marco Rubio, Lindsey Graham (withdrawn), Ben Carson, Rand Paul, Mike Huckabee, Ted Cruz, Donald Trump, Jim Gilmore, Chris Christie, Jeb Bush, Rick Santorum, John Kasich, and Carly Fiorina.

(4) The Republican Party of Virginia is requiring voters to sign a loyalty oath, which is allowed under Virginia law, stating, “My signature below indicates that I am a Republican.” The Democratic primary, however, is open to all registered voters regardless of party affiliation.

(5) The polls are open 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. on March 1. People in line by 7 can’t be turned away. To determine your polling place, visit the website of the Fairfax County Office of Elections. A photo ID is required to vote.

(6) The Office of Elections still needs more poll workers for the primary, especially in five critical areas, including Falls Church. Click here to learn more.

(7) Only registered voters can vote in the primary. Check your registration status on the Virginia Department of Elections website. The deadline to register to vote, online or in person, is Feb. 8.

(8) In-person absentee voting began Jan. 15 and will continue through Feb. 27 at the Fairfax County Government Center, 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday; 8 a.m.-7 p.m. on Thursday; and on Saturday, Feb. 27, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

(9) In-person absentee voting also can be done at eight satellite locations, including the Mason Government Center, on Feb. 27, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

(10) The deadline to apply for an absentee ballot is Feb. 23, 5 p.m. Pick up an absentee ballot application at county government offices or libraries or apply online. Absentee ballots must be received by the Office of Elections by 7 p.m. on March 1.