Early Voting Begins Sept. 20 in Virginia

Early voting for the November 5 general election kicks off on Friday, Sept. 20, allowing Virginians to cast their ballots ahead of Election Day. In-person early voting will run through Saturday, Nov. 2, with voters able to visit their local general registrar’s office or any designated satellite locations to vote.

How to Vote Early In-Person

Registered voters who vote early should bring an acceptable form of ID to their local general registrar’s office. The list of acceptable IDs and locations for all registrar offices can be found on the Virginia Department of Elections website. The early voting process is designed to be quick and easy for those wanting to avoid the Election Day rush.

Absentee Ballots Available

Absentee ballots will also be mailed out starting Sept. 20 for those who prefer voting by mail. This includes ballots for military members and voters living overseas. Any registered voter in Virginia can request an absentee ballot by mail, online through the Citizen Portal, or in person at their registrar’s office. The deadline to request an absentee ballot by mail is Oct. 25.

Absentee ballots can be returned by mail or dropped off at the registrar’s office or polling place on Election Day. Mailed ballots must be postmarked by Nov. 5 and received by the registrar’s office by noon on Nov. 8 to be counted.

Special Voting Options Available

Virginia offers several options to ensure all voters have access to the ballot. Voters with visual or physical impairments can request an absentee ballot marked electronically. Curbside voting is available for voters with disabilities or anyone over 65. Voters needing assistance or more information can contact their local registrar’s office.

Key Deadlines and Election Information

The deadline to register to vote and cast a regular ballot is Oct. 15. After this date, voters can still register and vote through same-day registration, but they will need to cast a provisional ballot. Same-day registration is available at early voting and polling places on Election Day.

Each jurisdiction in Virginia may also offer early voting at additional satellite locations. These sites have varying hours, so voters should check with their local registrar’s office for specific times and locations.

Virginia voters will elect a president, a U.S. Senator, representatives for all 11 congressional districts, and local officials this year. A proposed amendment to the state constitution will also be on the ballot. A full list of candidates and races can be found on the Virginia Department of Elections website.

Important Dates for Virginia’s 2024 Election Cycle

• Sept. 20 – Early in-person voting begins at the general registrar’s offices.
• Oct. 15 – Last day to register to vote and cast a regular ballot.
• Oct. 16 – Same-day registration begins. Voters using same-day registration will vote provisionally.
• Oct. 25 – Last day to request an absentee ballot.
• Nov. 2 – Final day of early in-person voting.
• Nov. 5 – Election Day.
• Nov. 8 – Deadline for mailed ballots to be received by the registrar’s office.
• Nov. 15 – Certification of provisional ballots.
• Dec. 2 – Official election results are certified by the State Board of Elections.

Virginia voters are encouraged to take advantage of early and absentee voting options to ensure their voices are heard in this critical election. Those with questions about voting can contact their general registrar or the Virginia Department of Elections for assistance.