California Voting Guide
Everything you need to know about voting in California (CA)
Voter Registration
Registration Deadline
15 days before Election Day (online/mail); same-day conditional registration available
Online Registration
Available — Register online
Same-day registration is available in California
How to Register
- Register online at RegisterToVote.ca.gov
- Complete a paper registration form available at post offices, libraries, DMV offices, and county elections offices
- Same-day conditional voter registration is available at your county elections office or voting location
Voter ID Requirements
Accepted Forms of Identification
- First-time voters who did not provide ID when registering may be asked for ID
- Acceptable IDs include: driver's license, state ID, passport, student ID, employee ID, or other government-issued ID
What if I don't have ID?
California does not have a general voter ID requirement. First-time voters who registered by mail without providing their driver's license or SSN number may need to show identification.
Early Voting & Absentee / Mail-In Voting
Early Voting
Every registered voter receives a vote-by-mail ballot automatically starting 29 days before the election
Absentee / Mail-In
California is a universal vote-by-mail state. All registered voters are mailed a ballot. You can return it by mail, at a drop box, at any vote center, or vote in person at a vote center.
Election Day
Polls Open
7:00 AM
Polls Close
8:00 PM
Many counties use Vote Centers instead of traditional polling places. Vote Centers are open for multiple days before and on Election Day, and you can visit any Vote Center in your county.
Key Dates & Deadlines
October 5, 2026
Vote-by-mail ballots begin mailing
October 19, 2026
Voter registration deadline (online/mail)
October 19 - Nov 3, 2026
Same-day conditional registration available
October 24, 2026
Vote Centers begin opening (in participating counties)
November 3, 2026
Election Day — ballots must be postmarked by this date
Useful Links
Disclaimer
Voting rules change frequently due to new legislation, court rulings, and administrative updates. The information on this page reflects general requirements as of 2025 and is intended as an educational overview. Always verify current requirements and deadlines with your state or local election office. Key dates shown are approximate for the 2026 general election cycle.