How to vote

Every registered California voter gets a ballot in the mail. Here's how to make sure yours counts.

Check you're registered

Moved, changed your name, or just became a citizen? Check your status at voterstatus.sos.ca.gov. Register at registertovote.ca.gov by October 19. After that, you can still register and vote the same day at your county elections office or any vote center.

Three ways to return your ballot

  1. By mail

    No stamp needed. It must be postmarked by Nov 3. Mail it early, at least a week before, to be safe.

  2. At a drop box

    Official drop boxes open Oct 6 and close at 8pm on Nov 3. Find one near you.

  3. In person

    Vote early at a vote center from Oct 24, or on Election Day from 7am to 8pm. Bring your mailed ballot if you have it.

Sign the envelope. Your signature must match your voter record. Then track your ballot by text, email or voice call.

Key dates

  1. Ballots mailed

    Every active registered voter gets a ballot by mail.

  2. Drop boxes open

    Return your ballot at any official drop box in your county.

  3. Register by today

    Last day to register online or by mail.

  4. Same-day registration

    Missed the deadline? Register and vote in person at your county elections office or a vote center.

  5. Vote centers open

    Early in-person voting begins in Voter's Choice Act counties.

  6. Election Day

    Polls open 7am–8pm. Mailed ballots must be postmarked today; drop boxes close at 8pm.

  7. Mail ballot cutoff

    Ballots postmarked by Nov 3 must arrive by today to count.

Your county elections office

Sample ballots, vote center locations and drop boxes for your county.