Voting Rules in California

Source: www.sos.ca.gov · Last verified May 2026
Voter ID Requirement
None (first-time by-mail voters may need ID)

California does not require ID to vote for established registered voters. First-time voters who registered by mail may need to show ID.

Mail-In Ballot Eligibility
All-Mail State

California automatically mails a ballot to every registered voter. In-person voting also available.

Early Voting
Available

In-person voting centers open 10 days before Election Day.

Registration Deadline
15 Days Before Election Day (Online/Mail); Same-Day Conditional Registration Available

Voter registration must be completed by October 19, 2026. Online registration is available.

Same-Day Registration
Yes

Conditional voter registration available through Election Day at voting centers.

Polling Hours
7:00 AM – 8:00 PM

Polls are open from 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM on Election Day. If you are in line when polls close you are entitled to vote.

Candidates on the Ballot

Sources: Ballotpedia · Official state election filings

Candidate data will be added as 2026 races are formally declared.

Check back as filing deadlines approach · www.sos.ca.gov

Upcoming Election Dates

Jun2
Primary Election Day
Republican and Democratic primaries · Determines nominees for the General Election
Upcoming
Oct19
Voter Registration Deadline
Last day to register for the November 2026 General Election · 15 days before Election Day (online/mail); same-day conditional registration available
Upcoming
Nov3
General Election Day
Polls open 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM · If you are in line when polls close you are entitled to vote
Upcoming

Polling Place Finder

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Register to Vote in California

Official California Voter Registration

Register online, by mail, or in person at your local election office. You must be a U.S. citizen, a California resident, and at least 18 years old by Election Day.

Register at registertovote.ca.gov →
Deadline: 15 days before Election Day (online/mail); same-day conditional registration available
Online: Yes — registertovote.ca.gov
By Mail: Yes — received by deadline
In Person: Yes
Same-Day Reg: Yes
Citizenship: U.S. Citizen required