A Direct Recording Electronic (DRE) voting system with Voter Verified Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) capability, referred to as a DRE-VVPAT, consists of a DRE, mechanisms for printing a paper record of the voter's choices and for the voter to verify the paper record, and a ballot box for storing the paper records. Generally, a voter makes ballot selections at the DRE and then causes the paper record to be printed in. If the voter determines that the paper record matches the electronic record and is accurate, the voter can then finalize his or her vote. Otherwise, the voter may spoil the ballot and reenter ballot choices at the DRE. Once the vote is final, the paper record is stored and retained in the ballot box. The paper record is typically used to audit the accuracy of the electronic record as well as for recounts, but may be used as the official ballot of record. The presence of the paper record can significantly increase voter satisfaction and trust in the accuracy of electronic voting systems and in elections. Electronic voting systems are inherently complex; consequently it is difficult to ascertain whether they are implemented correctly.

(from the Preliminary Report - NIST Approach to VVPAT Requirements for the VSS 2002 Addendum (John Wack, 2005-03-02)), submitted to the TGDC.

The States that have enacted legislation containing requirements for VVPAT capability are as follows:

• Alaska HB-459
• California SB 1438
• Illinois Public Act 093-573
• Maine LD-1759
• Ohio HB-262

The States of New Hampshire and Vermont have enacted legislation requiring use of paper ballots. Nevada, and Oregon have issued mandates for use of DRE-VVPAT capability in elections.