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

To vote in the November 3, 2026 general election, register by ≈ October 19, 2026 — 15 days before Election Day. Registering online or by mail follows a different rule: mail registrations must be postmarked 15 days before.

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

Same-day registration runs during in-person absentee voting and on Election Day.

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

Early voting opens ≈ October 14, 2026 — 20 days before Election Day. It runs through 5 p.m. day before Election Day.

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

Any registered voter in Iowa may request a mail ballot — no excuse required. Request deadline: 15 days before Election Day at 5 p.m..

Return rule: Must be received before close of polls on Election Day

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

A non-photo document showing name and address (such as a utility bill or bank statement) is accepted alongside or instead of a photo ID.

NCSL classifies Iowa as "strict" non-photo ID.

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

Polls are open until 8 p.m. CT on November 3, 2026.

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