State Election Guide

Washington election dates and voter deadlines

Washington 2026 election calendar with upcoming election dates, voter registration deadlines, early voting, absentee voting, poll hours, and official sources.

Official-source focus. This page highlights structured 2026 dates and 3 selected official or high-value source links.
Last reviewed: August 13, 2026. Generated from structured election data and official source links. Confirm final details with state or local election officials.

Before You Vote

Key voting questions

Poll hours: 7:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.

Washington is an elections-by-mail state and does not have polling places. Ballots had to be postmarked no later than Election Day. They could also be returned to a designated ballot drop box or returned in person to the county elections department by 8 p.m. on Election Day.

How can I find my polling location?

Voter Information Lookup can help you check your voter registration status, check your polling place location, and view your sample ballot.

What's on the Washington ballot in 2026?

Washington's current statewide calendar includes Washington General Election 2026 on November 3, 2026. Local ballots may include additional races, questions, or measures.

Who can vote in primaries in Washington?

Washington has nonpartisan registration. There is no option to affiliate with a political party on the voter registration form. Washington uses a nonpartisan, Top Two primary system for the State and Congressional Primaries. There is no party affiliation in...

Election Calendar

Washington current and upcoming election dates

Washington General Election 2026

November 3, 2026

November General election is held the Tuesday after the first Monday of the month of November

Poll hours: 7:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.

Key deadlines
  1. All-Mail voting begins

    Vote centers must be open 18 days before an election.

  2. Voter Registration Deadline By Mail, Fax or email attachment

    Your Registration by mail must be received 8 days before Election Day.

  3. Voter Registration Deadline Online

    Online registration deadline is 8 days before Election Day.

  4. All-Mail voting ends

    Early voting ends at 8 p.m on Election Day.

  5. Election Day Voter Registration Deadline

    Eligible persons may register to vote on any day up to and including the day of the election. Registration is available during all normal business hours of your town or city clerk's office on days preceding the election...

  6. Voter Registration Deadline In Person

    Eligible persons may register to vote on any day up to and including the day of the election. Registration is available during all normal business hours of your town or city clerk's office on days preceding the election...

Election Day Rules

Voting on Election Day in Washington

Time off for voting: Yes

Employees who do not have 2 free hours (excluding meals and breaks) during their work day in which polls are open, and who receive their work schedule with insufficient time to request an absentee ballot, are entitled to up to 2 paid hours leave to vote. The employer can set the time for leave to vote.

Can I register at the polls on Election Day?

Yes. Washington lists same-day or Election Day registration. Eligible persons may register to vote on any day up to and including the day of the election. Registration is available during all normal business hours of your town or city clerk's office on days preceding the election and during polling hours on Election Day. RCW 29A.08.140