A device that records votes by means of a ballot display provided with mechanical or electro-optical components that can be activated by the voter (typically buttons or a touchscreen), that processes data by means of a computer program, and that records voting data and ballot images in memory components.
What does DRE mean?
The term Direct-Recording Electronic (DRE) Voting Machine refers to a Direct-Recording Electronic voting machine that presents a ballot electronically and records voter selections directly into electronic memory rather than relying on a voter-marked paper ballot. It gives election, security, legal, or technical readers a specific label for the concept rather than a broader everyday meaning.
How does Direct-Recording electronic (DRE) voting machine work in a voting system?
In practice, Direct-Recording Electronic (DRE) Voting Machine is applied to the technical or security purpose captured by its definition: a Direct-Recording Electronic voting machine that presents a ballot electronically and records voter selections directly into electronic memory rather than relying on a voter-marked paper ballot.
Why does Direct-Recording electronic (DRE) voting machine matter for election verification?
Understanding Direct-Recording Electronic (DRE) Voting Machine matters because the concept can affect security, reliability, auditability, or trusted operation. In this glossary context, it refers to a Direct-Recording Electronic voting machine that presents a ballot electronically and records voter selections directly into electronic memory rather than relying on a voter-marked paper ballot.
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A device that records votes by means of a ballot display provided with mechanical or electro-optical components that can be activated by the voter (typically buttons or a touchscreen), that processes data by means of a computer program, and that records voting data and ballot images in memory components.
Cite this term
Election Security Glossary. (2026). Direct Recording Electronic (dre) Voting Machine. In Election Security Glossary. Retrieved August 14, 2026, from https://electionsecurityglossary.com/glossary/direct-recording-electronic-dre-voting-machine
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