How to Vote
Step 1: Voting in Person (On Election Day)
Voting in person is easy, but here are some tips to make sure everything goes smoothly:
Check Your Polling Place
Use the NC Voter Lookup Tool to confirm your polling place and district before Election Day.
Polling hours on Election Day vary by district. To ensure you have the most accurate information about when and where to vote, we recommend checking your local polling place details. Visit CanIVote.org to find your district's polling hours and locations. Remember, if you're in line before the polls close, you are still eligible to vote.
Bring ID (If Required)
Voters will be asked to show photo ID when voting in North Carolina.
Most voters will simply show their driver’s license. But there are many other acceptable photo IDs.
If a voter does not have an acceptable photo ID, they can get one for free from their county board of elections. Learn more at Get a Free Voter Photo ID.
Voters can also get a free ID card from the N.C. Division of Motor Vehicles (NCDMV). Find more information under “No-Fee ID Cards” at State IDs | NCDMV.
All voters will be allowed to vote with or without a photo ID. If a voter cannot show photo ID when voting in person, they can still vote by filling out an ID Exception Form.
While North Carolina doesn't currently require a photo ID for voting, it's always good to double-check for updates or special requirements. You can check the North Carolina State Board of Elections website for the latest details.
Bring Your Voter Registration Card or Other Info
You don’t need a physical card, but it’s helpful to bring a voter registration card or know your registration number. If you’re unsure of your status, the lookup tool can help.
Tips for Voting at the Polling Place:
Bring a friend: You can bring a friend or family member to help you, but they can’t help you vote.
Know your candidates: Do your research on the candidates and issues before you arrive so you’re prepared.
Step 2: Absentee Voting (Voting by Mail)
If you can’t make it to the polls, absentee voting is a great option. Here’s how to do it:
Request Your Absentee Ballot
You must request your absentee ballot by 5:00 PM on the Tuesday before Election Day. Request it online or by mail through the North Carolina Absentee Ballot Request Portal.
Fill Out Your Ballot
Once you receive your absentee ballot, carefully follow the instructions to complete it. Be sure to sign your ballot and any necessary envelopes.
Return Your Absentee Ballot
Your absentee ballot must be postmarked by Election Day and received by the Board of Elections within 3 days after the election.
Alternatively, you can drop off your absentee ballot at a designated drop-off location. Check with your county elections office for options.
Double-Check Your Ballot
Before you return it, review your ballot to ensure you’ve filled it out correctly. Mistakes could invalidate your vote.
Step 3: Early Voting
Early voting gives you flexibility to vote before Election Day. Here’s what you need to know:
Check Early Voting Locations
Early voting typically starts 2-3 weeks before Election Day. You can vote at any early voting site in your county, not just the one assigned to your district.
Visit the North Carolina Early Voting Locator to find early voting locations near you.
Plan Your Visit
Early voting locations often have shorter lines than on Election Day, but they may still get busy. Plan to arrive early or during off-peak hours if possible.
Dates and Hours for early voting can vary by county, so double-check with your local Board of Elections.
Bring ID and Registration Information
While photo ID isn’t required for voting, bring your voter registration information or a valid form of ID just in case.
Vote Early, Avoid the Rush
Take advantage of early voting to avoid long lines on Election Day. Voting early allows you more flexibility with your schedule.
Summary of Voting Options:
In-person on Election Day: Polling places open 6:30 AM – 7:30 PM. Make sure to check your polling place in advance and bring any necessary documents.
Absentee Voting (by Mail): Request your ballot by the Tuesday before Election Day. Ballots must be postmarked by Election Day and received within 3 days.
Early Voting: Available 2-3 weeks before Election Day at designated locations in your county. Check the NC website for locations and times.
