As the 2024 U.S. general election draws nearer, it is important to know the eligible dates and ways to vote, especially if you are a voter in California. California enables you to vote by mail and review your ballot before it’s election day, as well as any other reviews, to ensure your voice gets heard. Anyway, let’s discuss the more significant dates and deadlines you must be careful about.
When Does Voting by Mail Begin in California?
In California, voting is conducted through mail-in ballots; thus, ballots will be posted to every registered voter within the state. As per the office of the Secretary of State of California, the office predicts that ballots for the 2024 general elections will be part of postal services to the voters by October 7, 2024, with other services following thereafter. Your ballot should, however, reach your mailbox a few days after that above-mentioned date.
It is always advisable to complete a mail-in ballot as soon as you can in order to avoid any pressure at the last minute. Once you have completed it, you can either return it by post or drop it in available places, which we will explain next.
What Is the Deadline for Mailing Back Ballots?
If you choose to mail in your ballot, it is crucial to note that it must be postmarked by Election Day, November 5, 2024. Your county election office must receive the mailed ballot no later than seven days after Election Day—by November 12, 2024—for your vote to be counted.
If you are worried about the timing, the California Secretary of State’s office recommends taking advantage of drop-off locations, which we will explore next.
Where Can You Drop Off Your Vote-by-Mail Ballot?
California makes it easy for voters who prefer not to rely on the mail to return their ballots. You can drop off your completed ballot at any ballot drop box, vote center, or polling place in your county. These locations will begin accepting ballots as early as October 8, 2024.
Ballot drop boxes are available 24/7, and you can find one near you by visiting the California Secretary of State’s website. Just make sure you drop off your ballot before 8:00 p.m. on Election Day, November 5, 2024.
Can You Vote Early in Person?
If voting in person is more your style, California offers early voting options. Early voting will start on October 7, 2024, in some counties, with many early voting sites open across the state.
You can vote at any early voting location in your county, and you can find a list of those locations on your county’s election website or the California Secretary of State’s website. Early voting gives you a chance to avoid the crowds and vote at a time that is convenient for you.
What Is the Last Day to Register to Vote?
To participate in the 2024 general election, you must be registered to vote. The deadline for registering online or by mail is October 21, 2024. However, do not worry if you miss that deadline. California allows for same-day voter registration starting October 22, 2024, and running through Election Day.
If you register after the October 21 deadline, you will cast a provisional ballot, which will be counted once election officials confirm your registration.
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What Are the Polling Hours on Election Day?
Voter polling places will be available in California State on November 5, 2024, from 7:00 a.m. until 8:00 p.m. You are allowed to vote in any polling location within your county, irrespective of the designated precinct.
As long as you keep in mind these particular dates and deadlines, you will make sure that your vote is included in the 2024 elections in California, regardless of whether you decide to vote by mail, drop off the ballot, or go to the polls before or on a specific Election Day.
