2026 California Voting Guide

This year is critical in protecting both our national democracy and California’s future. With federal efforts to limit access to voting, now, more than ever is the time to vote. With the state’s primary over, candidates will be vying for your vote in November. Be prepared to make your choices.

Election Day is November 3, 2026. Below we offer basic voting information and key dates to keep in mind for California. You’ll find even more information on the California Secretary of State website.

Californians must be registered to vote at least 15 days before Election Day in order to cast a ballot — so get your registration in before October 19.

• You can register to vote online here or by picking up a registration form at your county elections office, library, Department of Motor Vehicles offices, or U.S. post office. You can either mail it in or hand it in personally at your county elections office.
• Voters must be 18 years of age on election day. However, 16 and 17 year olds can pre-register here, and they will then be automatically registered on their 18th birthday. This is a good idea for people turning 18 on or before an upcoming election day.
• If you miss the May 18th deadline, you can still register up to or on the day of the election, but your ballot will be given to you in person and considered “conditional.” That means that it may take a while for your status to be checked and your vote counted. Find more details on same-day registration here.

You can vote by mailing in your ballot, dropping it off at a secure ballot drop-off location, visiting your county elections office, or in person at a polling site.

• Ballots are mailed to registered voters several weeks before the election. (Remember, if you aren't registered yet, you may have to visit your elections office for a ballot or go in person to a polling site, since you will not automatically receive the ballot in the mail.)
• Polls will be open on November 3rd from 7 am to 8 pm. In-person voting ends at 8 pm.
• All mail-in ballots must be postmarked no later than November 3, 2026. If you are mailing your ballot on the day of the election, make sure you have it hand-stamped with the date at the post office.

For more information about your voting options, such as voting materials in other languages, specific remote technology needs, or accommodations for people with disabilities, visit https://www.sos.ca.gov/elections or call the Secretary of State’s office at (916) 653-6814.

Remember, your voice matters. Be a Clean Water Voter!