> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.voting.works/vxsuite-user-manual-v4/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.voting.works/vxsuite-user-manual-v4/vxmarkscan/open-and-close-polls.md).
# Open and Close Polls
## Open Polls on VxMarkScan
After VxMarkScan is turned on, the screen will show *Polls Closed:*
Verify the election name, election date, and precinct are correct in the bottom left corner.
{% hint style="warning" %}
If there is an orange callout that says "Test Ballot Mode" on the screen, contact your election administrator immediately to prepare the machine for the election.
{% endhint %}
**To open the polls:**
* [ ] Insert the poll worker card into the card reader beneath the accessible controller
* [ ] Select *`Open Polls`*
* [ ] Confirm by selecting *`Open Polls`* again
* [ ] Remove the poll worker card
* [ ] Verify the number of ballots printed is zero
The polls are now open and VxMarkScan is ready for voters.
## Close Polls on VxMarkScan
* [ ] Remove ballot bin seal
* [ ] Remove ballots inside (secure for tabulation on VxCentralScan)
* [ ] Insert the poll worker card into the card reader beneath the accessible controller
* [ ] Select *`Close Polls`*
* [ ] Confirm by selecting *`Close Polls`* again
* [ ] Remove the poll worker card
The polls are now closed.
## Pause or Resume Voting
The *`Pause Voting`* action is generally used by jurisdictions conducting early voting over multiple days or during an emergency situation. To pause voting and not allow ballots to be marked by VxMarkScan:
* [ ] Insert the poll worker card into the card reader beneath the accessible controller
* [ ] Select *`Pause Voting`*
* [ ] Confirm by selecting *`Pause Voting`* again
* [ ] Remove the poll worker card
Voting is now paused. When you want to resume voting:
* [ ] Insert the poll worker card into the card reader beneath the accessible controller
* [ ] Select *`Resume Voting`*
* [ ] Confirm by selecting *`Resume Voting`* again
* [ ] Remove the poll worker card
Voting can now continue.
---
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