Election Day 2026 is Tuesday, November 3, 2026. It is a midterm election year in the United States, which means Congress, many governors and thousands of state and local offices are on the ballot. This guide explains what is being decided and how to make sure your vote counts. Rules differ by state, so always confirm details with your state or local election office.
When is Election Day 2026?
Federal Election Day is set by law as the Tuesday after the first Monday in November. In 2026 that is November 3. Many states also offer early voting in the weeks before, and mail ballots must meet state deadlines.
What is on the 2026 midterm ballot?
- U.S. House of Representatives: all 435 seats are up for election, because House members serve two-year terms.
- U.S. Senate: about one-third of the Senate (the seats in Class 2) plus any special elections for vacancies.
- Governors: most states elect a governor in midterm years.
- State legislatures, mayors, judges and school boards in many areas.
- Ballot measures: state and local questions on taxes, schools, voting rules and more.
Your exact ballot depends on where you live. Most county election websites post a sample ballot a few weeks before Election Day.
How to vote in 2026: step by step
1. Check your registration
Visit your state election website or vote.gov to check or update your registration. Deadlines range from about a month before Election Day to same-day registration in some states.
2. Choose how you will vote
- Early in person: available in many states, often on weekends too.
- By mail: request your ballot early, follow the signature rules, and return it before your state deadline.
- On Election Day: go to your assigned polling place.
3. Find your polling place
Your polling place can change between elections. Check your county or state website a week before.
4. Bring the right ID
Some states require photo ID, some accept other documents and some require none. Check your state’s rules before you go.
5. Research your ballot
Look up candidates and ballot measures in advance so you can vote quickly and confidently.
Election Day checklist
- Registration confirmed
- Polling place and hours checked
- ID or required documents ready
- Sample ballot reviewed
- Mail ballot signed and returned on time (if voting by mail)
- Water, snack and phone charger in case of lines
Know your rights at the polls
- If you are in line when polls close, you can still vote.
- If there is a problem with your registration, ask for a provisional ballot.
- Many states require employers to give time off to vote — check your state law.
- You can ask poll workers for help or a new ballot if you make a mistake.
Key dates around Election Day 2026
| Date | What happens |
|---|---|
| October 2026 | Registration deadlines in many states; early voting begins in many places |
| Sunday, November 1, 2026 | Daylight saving time ends — check poll hours after the clock change |
| Tuesday, November 3, 2026 | Election Day |
| January 3, 2027 | New Congress is sworn in |
Also see our guide to clocks going back in 2026 and Veterans Day 2026.
FAQ
When is Election Day 2026?
Tuesday, November 3, 2026.
Is 2026 a presidential election?
No. 2026 is a midterm election. The next presidential election is in November 2028.
Is Election Day a federal holiday?
No, but some states and employers give time off, and many states offer early and mail voting.
How do I find my polling place?
Check your state or county election website, or start at vote.gov, which links to each state’s official tools.
Election night guides: when polls close in every state and when we’ll know the 2026 midterm results.
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