San Mateo residents can design the official "I Voted" stickers that will greet every voter at local polling places for the Nov. 3 election.

The city's Generation Voter program is accepting original sticker designs through Wednesday, Sept. 30. Winners will see their artwork printed as official stickers at all San Mateo voting locations and City Hall for the Statewide General Election, according to the city's contest page.

The contest is open to San Mateo residents of all ages, split into five groups: ages 0–7, 8–12, 13–17, 18–59 and 60+. The Youth Activity Council will pick one winner from each group. Those categories could shift depending on how many entries come in.

Designs must include the words "I Voted" or "Future Voter" and stay politically neutral. No references to campaigns or ballot issues are allowed. All artwork must be original. AI-generated images, stock photos and borrowed art are prohibited.

The city ran the same contest ahead of the June 2 primary election. Winners' designs were printed as official stickers at voter centers across San Mateo for that election, the City of San Mateo announced on X.

How to enter

Contestants can download a template at cityofsanmateo.org or pick up a printed copy at City Hall, 330 W. 20th Ave., or at city recreation centers and libraries.

Submissions go to [email protected] with the artist's name, age, phone number, email, home address, school and sweatshirt size. Paper entries can be dropped off at the City Clerk's Counter at City Hall or the San Mateo Public Library main branch, or mailed to the City Clerk's Office at 330 W. 20th Ave., San Mateo, CA 94403.

What winners get

Each winner receives a custom sweatshirt featuring their design and recognition at a San Mateo City Council meeting. They also get their sticker handed to voters on Election Day.

Entries are due Sept. 30. Residents of Burlingame, Hillsborough, Millbrae or Foster City can enter through their own city clerk's offices.