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VVSG 2.0

VOLUNTARY VOTING SYSTEM GUIDELINES (VVSG) 2.0

ABOUT VVSG 2.0

The Voluntary Voting System Guidelines (VVSG) 2.0 represent the most comprehensive update to federal voting system standards in over a decade. Developed and adopted by the U.S. Election Assistance Commission (EAC) in 2021, VVSG 2.0 includes high-level principles and guidelines coupled with technical requirements emphasizing usability, accessibility, security and interoperability.

 

VVSG 2.0 replaces VVSG 1.0 and VVSG 1.1, which were the prevailing standards for nearly two decades. ACET voting system manufacturers will support VVSG 1.0 and, technically, 1.1 systems through software updates, security patches, and technical assistance. However, long-term support will become limited as systems age. VVSG 1.0 systems are still viable.  

 

​As states and local jurisdictions begin evaluating their options for VVSG 2.0-compliant systems, ACET member companies are committed to working alongside election officials to ensure a smooth transition that supports secure and accurate elections.​

Industry Update – 2025

Executive Director, Sara Cutter, recently joined the 2025 NASED Winter Conference to present an industry update on VVSG 2.0. ACET would like to thank NASED and the industry for their continued work in election administration and security. 

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The implementation of VVSG 2.0 is a major milestone for the election community. While no VVSG 2.0-certified systems are currently deployed (January 2025), ACET members are actively engaged in the testing and certification process, with initial federal certifications expected in 2025–2026.

 

Here’s what election officials should expect in the coming years:

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  • Transition Planning is Underway – Vendors are conducting R&D, submitting federal certification applications, and preparing new systems to meet the VVSG 2.0 standard.

  • Certification Timeline – Some early applicants may complete testing in spring and summer 2025, with federal certification following shortly thereafter. State certification processes will follow, depending on state adoption timelines.

  • Procurement Considerations – While widespread deployment before 2028 is unlikely, some jurisdictions may begin pilot programs and early procurements in 2026–2027.

  • Legacy System Support – ACET member vendors will continue to support VVSG 1.0 systems with software updates, security patches, and technical assistance while jurisdictions transition to VVSG 2.0.​

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ACET encourages election jurisdictions to begin discussions with vendors now to plan for future procurement cycles, funding allocations, and state certification processes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is VVSG 2.0 and why was it created?

​VVSG 2.0 is the latest federal voting system standard developed by the EAC. It modernizes election technology requirements with a focus on security, accessibility, usability, and auditability. The goal is to enhance election integrity while ensuring voting systems meet the evolving needs of election administrators and voters.

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How does VVSG 2.0 improve election security?​

VVSG 2.0 strengthens security requirements by:

  • Mandating software independence, ensuring voting systems generate auditable paper records.

  • Requiring multi-factor authentication for system access.

  • Enhancing encryption standards to protect election data.

  • Implementing comprehensive logging requirements to track system activity and detect anomalies.

Read the VVSG 2.0 Guidelines.

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Can jurisdictions upgrade their existing VVSG 1.0 systems to VVSG 2.0?

Maybe. In many cases, upgrading a VVSG 1.0 system to meet VVSG 2.0 standards may not be practical or cost-effective, particularly due to specific hardware requirements such as updated screen resolution, screen size, or the imprinter. That said, the EAC plans to allow manufacturers to upgrade individual components of currently fielded systems to VVSG 2.0 where feasible, while maintaining the overall system’s VVSG 1.0 designation. 

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Will jurisdictions be required to replace their entire voting system to meet VVSG 2.0?

It depends. Some manufacturers began integrating 2.0 components into 1.0 systems since the EAC adopted the new standard.  However, over time, full replacement is likely. VVSG 2.0 introduces substantial changes that many existing systems cannot meet through upgrades alone. Manufacturers are working closely with election officials to develop transition plans that protect prior investments while introducing VVSG 2.0-compliant technology.

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When will VVSG 2.0-certified systems be available for purchase?

Initial federal certifications are expected in 2025–2026. State certifications will follow, with early adopters potentially deploying systems ahead of the 2028 presidential election. Full-scale implementation will depend on state approval processes, funding availability, and procurement timelines.

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What should jurisdictions do if they can’t upgrade all counties at once?
It's important to recognize that variation in voting systems is normal—the U.S. has over 8,800 election jurisdictions, and many operate on different procurement cycles. Jurisdictions should:

  • Engage with lawmakers to secure funding for VVSG 2.0 transitions.

  • Reassure the public that VVSG 1.0 systems remain secure and compliant with strict federal and state standards.

  • Educate constituents that vendors will continue supporting VVSG 1.0 systems with updates and security patches.

  • Emphasize the benefits of decentralized elections—different systems help increase security resilience and prevent single points of failure.

 

What impact will VVSG 2.0 have on costs?
VVSG 2.0 systems are expected to be 20–50% more expensive than current systems due to:

  • Upgraded hardware components.

    • Inflation in the components market also drives up expenses.​

  • Advanced software features.

  • Extended testing and certification timelines.

  • Comprehensive training for election officials and poll workers.

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Do voting system manufacturers want to develop new systems all the time?

Voting system manufacturers are committed to continuous innovation to meet evolving security, accessibility, and usability standards. They fully support election officials in deploying secure and reliable systems. However, manufacturers emphasize that updates to standards should follow a predictable, well-structured process rather than serving as a constantly shifting target. Stability in standards enables more efficient product development and long-term planning for jurisdictions.

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