How to Vote in Illinois: 2026 Deadlines, Early Voting & Poll Hours

To vote in the November 3, 2026 general election, register by ≈ October 18, 2026 — 28 days before Election Day. Registering online or by mail follows a different rule: 16 days before if registering online.

Illinois also allows same-day registration during early voting and on Election Day.

Availability and locations of same-day and Election Day registration vary by county.

Dates marked ≈ are computed from state statute and can shift with county practice. Confirm your exact deadline and check your registration status at Illinois's official site.

Early voting opens ≈ September 24, 2026 — 40 days before (temporary sites); 15 days before (permanent sites). It runs through Day before Election Day.

Confirm exact locations and hours — which vary by county — at Illinois's official election site.

Any registered voter in Illinois may request a mail ballot — no excuse required. Request deadline: 5 days before Election Day (mail/electronic); day before (in-person).

Return rule: Postmarked on or before Election Day; must be received within 14 days

Details and request forms are at Illinois's official election site.

No identifying document is requested to vote in person; the state verifies identity by other means, typically a signature match.

See the full list of accepted ID at Illinois's official election site.

Polls are open until 7 p.m. CT on November 3, 2026.

See how Illinois's closing time compares nationwide on the full poll closing times by state page, or confirm your local hours at Illinois's official election site.