Federal Election Day: November 3, 2026

The general election is held on the first Tuesday after the first Monday in November. Mark your calendar: Tuesday, November 3, 2026.

State-Specific Timelines

Different states have different rules for candidate filing, primary elections, and early voting. Here are the major milestones:

Candidate Filing Opens
Most states open candidate filing windows. Exact dates vary by state.

Filing Deadlines Close
Candidates must officially register by state deadlines, typically January–February.

Primary Elections
States hold primary elections to narrow the field. Dates vary widely (March in some states, June in others).

General Election Campaign
The final push. Early voting opens in most states. Voter registration deadlines approach.

Voter Registration Deadlines
Most states require registration 15–30 days before Election Day. Deadlines vary by state.

Early Voting Begins
In-person early voting and mail ballots become available in most states.

Election Day
Polls are open for in-person voting. Mail ballots must be returned or postmarked by this date.

Voter Registration Deadlines: Miss the deadline in your state and you can't vote. Register early.
Early Voting Windows: Vote before Election Day if you can't make it to the polls on November 3.
Mail Ballot Deadlines: Mail-in ballots must arrive by Election Day. Plan ahead if you live far from your polling place.
Primary Elections: Who appears on the November ballot is decided in the primary. Primaries are often decided by lower turnout.

Election rules are set by state law, so timelines vary. Find your state's exact dates:

Now that you know the dates, learn about candidates and ballot measures in your area.