The 2011 Ontario election has arrived, and while some have voted in advance polls, the majority of those who plan on participating in the democratic process will do so today. Here's a quick primer on what you need to know to get out there and cast your ballot:

Eligibility

To vote in the Ontario election, you must be a Canadian citizen, 18 years old or older, and a resident of Ontario.

Casting your ballot

You have to be on the voter's list in order to cast a ballot, but even if you didn't receive a Notice of Registration card, you can add your name on election day at the polling station. Here's information on the ID requirements, which differs depending on whether or not your name is already on the voter's list.

Where to vote

If you got a Notice of Registration card, it'll indicate where you should vote. But if not, one of the best tools around is the Elections Ontario polling station finder, where you enter in some basic info and it tells you where you need to go. Polls are open until 9 p.m.

Who to vote for

That's up to you! But, in case it helps, here are some of the endorsements from publications that do that sort of thing:

• Toronto Star (McGuinty)
• The Globe and Mail (McGuinty)
• National Post (Hudak)
• Toronto Sun (no one, really)
• Torontoist (anyone but the Tories)

Photo of a Toronto polling station sign by asianz in the blogTO Flickr pool