Important Dates and Election Information
- Ballot-by-Mail Voting Starts: Friday, Oct. 18
- Deadline to Register to Vote by Mail or Online: Monday, Oct. 28
- Deadline to Register in Person: Tuesday, Nov. 5
- General Election: Tuesday, Nov. 5
Quick Overview of Voting
Voter Registration
You can register in person at your county elections office or at voting centers starting Friday, Oct. 18, and up until 8 p.m. on Election Day. Use the secretary of state’s voter portal to check your registration status.
Voting by Mail
All registered voters will automatically receive a vote-by-mail ballot. Completed ballots must be postmarked by Election Day or returned to an official ballot drop box by 8 p.m. on Election Day.
Voting in Person
You can vote in person starting Friday, Oct. 18, and up until 8 p.m. on Election Day. Find your voting center locations and hours by visiting the VoteWA website or contacting your county elections office.
Recent Voting Changes in Washington
Recent changes may affect how you vote in 2024:
- A new legislative map changed the boundaries of 13 districts. If your district changes, you’ll automatically receive a new voter registration card in the mail.
- Starting July 15, you can register to vote online using the last four digits of your Social Security number, making it easier for those without a driver’s license or state ID.
- Washington’s automatic voter registration policy has changed. Beginning July 15, you will no longer have the option to opt out of voter registration when completing certain transactions at state agencies. If you wish to decline voter registration, follow the instructions on a notice sent by mail.
How to Register to Vote
When completing certain transactions with Washington state agencies, such as getting an enhanced driver’s license or ID, you’ll be automatically registered to vote if you provide proof of U.S. citizenship.
Online
Use the state’s voter registration portal. You’ll need a Washington driver’s license, permit, ID card, or the last four digits of your Social Security number. The deadline to register online is Monday, Oct. 28, by midnight.
By Mail
Print a voter registration form or request one be mailed to you. Provide a Washington driver’s license, permit, or ID number, or the last four digits of your Social Security number. If you can’t provide these, you’ll be asked for an alternative ID, such as a current utility bill or bank statement. Return the completed form to your county elections office by mail or in person by Monday, Oct. 28.
In Person
Register at a voting center starting Friday, Oct. 18, during business hours or up until 8 p.m. on Election Day.
Registering to Vote on Election Day
You can register to vote in person at a voting center or your county elections office up until 8 p.m. on Election Day. You’ll need to provide a Washington driver’s license, permit, state ID, or the last four digits of your Social Security number. If you can’t provide these, you may use another form of identification, such as a utility bill.
Check Your Voter Registration Status
Check your voter registration status using the secretary of state’s voter portal.
How to Vote by Mail
All registered voters are automatically sent a vote-by-mail ballot for every election. Ballots for the general election will be mailed by county elections offices no later than Friday, Oct. 18. If you don’t receive a ballot or need to update your mailing address, contact your county elections office.
Returning Your Ballot
Use the provided postage-paid envelope to return your ballot by mail. Your ballot must be postmarked by Election Day (the U.S. Postal Service recommends mailing at least one week in advance). Alternatively, you can drop off your completed ballot at an official ballot drop box by 8 p.m. on Election Day. Find a drop box location near you using the state’s VoteWA portal.
Track your ballot using the state’s VoteWA portal. It may take three to five business days for your ballot to be marked as received.
Voting in Person Before Election Day
You can vote in person from Friday, Oct. 18, until 8 p.m. on Election Day. To find your voting center, visit the VoteWA website or contact your county elections office. If you’re already registered, you don’t need to provide ID.
Voting at the Polls on Election Day
Voting centers are open from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Election Day. If you’re in line by 8 p.m., you’ll be allowed to vote. Use the VoteWA website to find voting centers near you.
Voter ID Requirements on Election Day
If you’re already registered, you don’t need to provide ID to vote in person. Election officials will compare the signature on your ballot with the signature on your voter registration.
Voting with a Disability
All registered voters, including those with disabilities, can vote by mail. You can ask someone to assist you with completing your vote-by-mail ballot or contact your county elections office for help. If you’re unable to sign the ballot envelope, you may make a mark (such as an X) and have two witnesses sign the envelope.
If voting in person, voters who need help can receive assistance from two election officers or someone of their choice. Every voting center is equipped with an accessible voting system. For more information, visit the secretary of state’s website.
