This is part of How to Vote from BPR News, a free, re-publishable guide to the 2024 elections. Learn more about republication.
The 2024 General Election is on the horizon but is it on your calendar?
Here are the dates to remember to make sure you are ready to vote. Don’t forget: All North Carolina voters are required to bring an ID in order to cast a ballot. Make sure you have the right ID here. If you need to vote absentee, mail-in ballots may be requested through Oct. 29.
1. October 11: Voter registration deadline
This is the deadline to register to vote. On voter registration applications, applicants will be asked for an identification number: a DMV-issued ID number or, if they do not have one, the last four digits of their Social Security number. Without this, the form cannot be processed. Registration can be applied for by mail, or online through the DMV (if you have a driver’s license). You can also contact your county board of elections if you have questions about updating your registration. Here is a list of other organizations that will help you register to vote.
2. October 17: Early Voting starts
During early voting, same-day voter registration is available if you’ve lived in the county where you are registering for at least 30 days. Voters can also update their name or address within the same county. Same-day registration requires proof of your current address, such as a driver’s license or current utility bill. Early voting ends November 2.
3. October 29: Absentee ballot request deadline
Anyone can request an absentee ballot, also known as a mail-in ballot, for any reason. Absentee ballots can be requested on the Board of Elections website or through the county board of elections. These ballots can be requested now and will be sent starting September 6. Absentee ballots must be returned by 7:30 p.m. on Election Day. This is a new rule. Leave plenty of time to ensure your ballot arrives by Nov. 5.
4. November 2: Early Voting ends
During early voting, voters can turn in their ballots and take advantage of same-day registration. After early voting, voters will not be able to update their voter registration. Early voting runs from October 17 to November 2. Check your county board of elections schedule to see the hours early voting is open in your county.
5. November 5: Election Day
Voters should check out a sample ballot, do their research and head to the polls. Voters need to bring their photo ID. Voters should also check their voter registration or with their county board of elections to find their precinct.
The deadlines are different for military and overseas citizens in many cases. Check the NC Board of Elections website for those deadlines. If you have questions, reach out to your county Board of Elections office.
