Ohio Voting Guide
Everything you need to know about voting in Ohio (OH)
Voter Registration
Registration Deadline
30 days before Election Day
Online Registration
Available — Register online
How to Register
- Register online at the Ohio Secretary of State's website
- Download and mail a voter registration form
- Register in person at your county Board of Elections, BMV, or public libraries
Voter ID Requirements
Accepted Forms of Identification
- Ohio driver's license or state ID card (not expired more than 4 years)
- Interim Ohio ID documentation
- U.S. passport or passport card
- U.S. military ID
- Ohio National Guard ID
- U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs ID
What if I don't have ID?
If you do not have acceptable photo ID, you may cast a provisional ballot and provide acceptable ID to the Board of Elections within 4 days after the election.
Early Voting & Absentee / Mail-In Voting
Early Voting
Begins 29 days before Election Day at your county Board of Elections; Saturday and Sunday hours vary
Absentee / Mail-In
Any registered voter may request an absentee ballot by mail. Applications must be received at least 3 days before the election. Completed ballots must be postmarked by the day before Election Day and received within 4 days after.
Election Day
Polls Open
6:30 AM
Polls Close
7:30 PM
Key Dates & Deadlines
October 4, 2026
Voter registration deadline
October 5, 2026
Early in-person voting begins at Board of Elections
October 31, 2026
Deadline to request absentee ballot by mail
November 2, 2026
Early voting ends
November 3, 2026
Election Day
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.