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

To vote in the November 3, 2026 general election, register by ≈ October 13, 2026 — 21 days before Election Day.

Maine also allows same-day registration on Election Day itself.

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

Early voting opens ≈ October 4, 2026 — 30 days before Election Day (in-person absentee). It runs through 3 business days before Election Day, absent an excuse.

In-person absentee at the clerk’s office. Ballots must be printed and ready first, so the practical start varies by town.

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

Any registered voter in Maine may request a mail ballot — no excuse required. Request deadline: 3 business days before Election Day.

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

Request deadline is in business days, not calendar days.

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

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

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