Early Voting in Texas: What You Need to Know

Early voting for the statewide Nov. 4 election begins Monday, Oct. 20. Texans will be voting on state constitutional amendments, city council races, bond propositions and other local matters. This election is a great opportunity for Texans to make their voices heard and shape the future of their state.

Anyone in Texas can vote early. In 1987, Texas became the first state to allow early voting. On your way to the polls, take a look at Dallas Morning News’ voter guide to know who and what will appear on the ballot. This guide is a valuable resource that can help you make informed decisions about the candidates and issues on the ballot.

Some Texans can vote by mail, but there are restrictions for those who want to do so. Voting by mail can be a convenient option for people who are unable to vote in person, but it’s essential to understand the rules and requirements before requesting a mail ballot.

When is Early Voting?

Early voting lasts from Oct. 20 to Oct. 31. Select locations for voting will be announced Oct. 18 according to VoteTexas.gov. It’s crucial to check the website for the most up-to-date information on voting locations and times.

Times for voting are:

• Oct. 20-24: 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
• Oct. 25: 7 a.m.-7 p.m.
• Oct. 26: Noon-6 p.m.
• Oct. 27-31: 7 a.m.-7 p.m.

These times are subject to change, so it’s always a good idea to double-check the voting schedule before heading to the polls.

Deadlines

Voters had to be registered by Oct. 6 to participate in this election. The last day to apply for a mail ballot is Oct. 24. It’s essential to mark these deadlines on your calendar to ensure you don’t miss the opportunity to vote.

Requirements

A photo ID is required for in-person voting. Voters must have one of the seven acceptable forms of photo identification, which include:

• Texas driver’s license
• Texas election ID certificate
• Texas personal ID card
• Texas handgun license
• U.S. military ID
• U.S. citizenship certificate
• U.S. passport (book or card)

Make sure you have one of these IDs with you when you go to vote to avoid any issues.

How to Vote by Mail

Voting by mail is limited to people who are:

• 65 and older
• Sick or disabled
• Expected to give birth within three weeks of Election Day
• Absent from the country during the early voting period and election day
• Civilly committed under Chapter 841 of the Texas Health and Safety Code
• Confined in jail but otherwise eligible

If you meet one of these criteria, you can request a vote-by-mail application from your county clerk or find an application online at the Texas Secretary of State office’s website.

To cast a vote, you must provide a Texas driver’s license number, Texas personal identification number or Election Identification Certificate number issued by the Texas Department of Public Safety. If you do not have the above identification, you can provide the last four digits of your Social Security number. Address your completed application to the early voting clerk in your county.

Conclusion

Early voting is an excellent way to make your voice heard in the upcoming election. By understanding the rules, requirements, and deadlines, you can ensure that your vote counts. Remember to check the voting schedule, bring the required photo ID, and follow the instructions for voting by mail. Every vote matters, and by participating in this election, you can help shape the future of Texas.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Q: Who can vote early in Texas?

A: Anyone in Texas can vote early, as long as they are registered to vote.

Q: What are the acceptable forms of photo identification for in-person voting?

A: The seven acceptable forms of photo identification include Texas driver’s license, Texas election ID certificate, Texas personal ID card, Texas handgun license, U.S. military ID, U.S. citizenship certificate, and U.S. passport (book or card).

Q: Can I vote by mail if I’m under 65?

A: Only people who are 65 and older, sick or disabled, expected to give birth within three weeks of Election Day, absent from the country during the early voting period and election day, civilly committed under Chapter 841 of the Texas Health and Safety Code, or confined in jail but otherwise eligible can vote by mail.

Q: What is the deadline to apply for a mail ballot?

A: The last day to apply for a mail ballot is Oct. 24.