Early Voting in North Texas: A Guide to Casting Your Ballot

Early voting starts April 22 and runs through April 29 for a slew of local races across North Texas. This period allows citizens to cast their ballots before the official election day, making it more convenient for those who may not be able to vote on May 3.

In 1987, Texas became the first state to allow for early voting, increasing the opportunity to cast an in-person ballot before election day. Voting by mail also is available to certain Texans.

Voters will decide on mayors and school board members and approve or reject municipal bonds in the May 3 elections. To view the races on your ballot, check out our voter guide.

Checking Your Voter Registration Status

If you’re unsure whether you’re registered to vote, you can check your status through the Texas Secretary of State’s website or your county elections office. This is a crucial step to ensure you can participate in the upcoming elections.

Registering to Vote

No, you cannot vote if you have not registered. Texas requires voters to have registered by April 3 in order to cast a ballot in this election. Unlike Texas, 22 states and Washington, D.C., allow same-day registration, which permits eligible residents to register and cast a ballot at the same time.

Required Documents for Voting

Voters will need one acceptable form of ID. This includes a Texas identification card, Texas driver’s license, state handgun license, Texas election ID certificate, U.S. passport, U.S. military ID with a photograph or U.S. citizenship certification with a photograph.

Dress Code for Voting

Voters should keep in mind the appropriate attire to wear to polling places. In Texas, it’s illegal to wear political materials or T-shirts showing support or opposition for any of the current ballot items at or near a voting location.

Voting by Mail

Applications to request a mail-in ballot are due April 22. Mail ballots must be postmarked by 7 p.m. on election day and must be received by the county by Monday, May 5. They can also be delivered in person to polling places on Election Day.

Texas does not have no-excuse mail voting. Voters must meet at least one of the following criteria to vote by mail:

• 65 years or older
• Sick or disabled
• Out of the county on election day and during the period for in-person early voting
• Expected to give birth within three weeks before or after Election Day
• Confined in jail but otherwise eligible

Early Voting Locations and Schedule

It depends on which county you live in. Voters can cast ballots at any early voting location in their county.

Dallas County

• April 22-25: 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
• April 26: 7 a.m.-7 p.m.
• April 27: Noon-6 p.m.
• April 28-29: 7 a.m.-7 p.m.

See Dallas County early voting locations here.

Tarrant County

• April 22-25: 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
• April 26: 7 a.m.-7 p.m.
• April 27: 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
• April 28-29: 7 a.m.-7 p.m.

See Tarrant County early voting locations here.

Collin County

• April 22-26: 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
• Closed April 27
• April 28-29: 7 a.m.-7 p.m.

See Collin County early voting locations here.

Denton County

• April 22-April 26: 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
• April 27: 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
• April 28-29: 7 a.m.-7 p.m.

See Denton County early voting locations here.

Ellis County

• April 22-25: 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
• April 26: 8 a.m.-4 p.m.
• Closed April 27
• April 28-29: 7 a.m.-7 p.m.

See Ellis County early voting locations here.

Conclusion

Early voting is an essential part of the democratic process, allowing citizens to participate in elections at their convenience. By understanding the requirements, schedule, and locations for early voting, you can make your voice heard in the upcoming local races. Remember to check your voter registration status, bring the necessary documents, and follow the guidelines for voting in person or by mail.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions and answers about early voting in North Texas:

• Q: What is the deadline for registering to vote?
  A: The deadline for registering to vote in Texas was April 3.
• Q: Can I vote by mail if I’m under 65 years old?
  A: Yes, but you must meet one of the eligibility criteria, such as being sick or disabled, or out of the county on election day.
• Q: What forms of ID are accepted for voting?
  A: Acceptable forms of ID include a Texas identification card, Texas driver’s license, state handgun license, Texas election ID certificate, U.S. passport, U.S. military ID with a photograph or U.S. citizenship certification with a photograph.
• Q: Can I wear political clothing to the polling station?
  A: No, it’s illegal to wear political materials or T-shirts showing support or opposition for any of the current ballot items at or near a voting location.