Choose the voting method that works for you. Deadlines depend on that method. Check the time and delivery requirements, not just the date. Military, overseas, and emergency voting may have separate rules.
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Register
Register online or with a paper application. After October 19, eligible voters can conditionally register and vote provisionally at designated locations through Election Day.
Mail registration deadline
Regular registration closes October 19. Eligible voters who miss it may use conditional registration through Election Day.
Registered voters receive a mail ballot automatically. Return it to an authorized location by Election Day or mail it with a timely postmark; the receipt deadline is separate.
Mail ballots and drop-off locations
Counties begin sending ballots to registered voters by October 5, and drop-off locations open by this date.
Date labels compare calendar dates in Pacific time; “Today” does not mean the cutoff time has not passed. Confirm local times with your election office.
Before You Vote
Key voting questions
How can I find my polling location?
Use the California election office lookup or contact your local election office before Election Day.
California voter information lookup
Use California’s voter information resource to review your personal voting information.
California's current statewide calendar includes California General Election 2026 on November 3, 2026. Local ballots may include additional races, questions, or measures.
For voter-nominated offices, all voters may choose any candidate regardless of party; the top two advance to the general election. Presidential and party-committee contests use different rules.
Page generated: October 19, 2026.
Generated from structured election data and official source links. Confirm final details with state or local election officials.