Warning: Mail-in voting is a convenient and safe way to vote, but your ballot might not count if it's submitted late or with errors. So follow the directions below on how to vote early or absentee and make your vote count in Tennessee.
Note - this information below may change for your state due to ongoing litigation and legislation. This page will be updated within 24 hours of any change.
You can vote early in your state before Election Day. Early voting begins on 10/19/2022 and ends on 11/03/2022
Contact your local election commission for early voting locations and hours.
Voting by mail is a two step process in Tennessee. Step 1: Request your ballot NOW. The deadline for your application to be received is November 1st. A qualifying excuse is required in order to vote by mail in Tennessee.
You need an excuse to request an absentee ballot. Excuses could include being sick or out of town, but it’s best to check with your state directly to see what counts as an excuse.
After you fill out your ballot, sign the outside of the ballot carrier envelope. Be sure that your signature matches your signature on file with the state! If you registered online or at the DMV, check the signature on your license. If the signature does not match, your ballot could be tossed and will not count.
Tennessee voters must show valid photo ID when voting in person. Info here on what qualifies. You do not need to submit a copy of your photo ID when voting by mail. If voting by-mail voter must provide social security number with application. No ID information is required when sending in ballot, but signature matching will be used to process the ballot.
You must add a stamp when mailing in your ballot.
Return your ballot via commercial delivery services, such as FedEx or UPS (at your expense)
You can have anyone you choose return your ballot to the post office. Note that no one may return ballots in-person, they must be mailed.
Look Up Ballot Drop Off LocationsClick here to track your ballot. Your state offers electronic, barcode ballot tracking services so you can make sure your ballot gets counted. Your state does not offer voters a chance to address challenges to their ballot. Your ballot will not count if it is late, or you do not follow directions.
If you have an absentee ballot that you are not going to use, or you miss the deadline to return, you may go to your polling place and vote in person. You will be asked to use a provisional ballot. This is better than not voting, but may not be counted.
The national, nonpartisan Election Protection coalition was formed to ensure that all voters have an equal opportunity to participate in the political process. Made up of more than 100 local, state and national partners, Election Protection works year-round to advance and defend the right to vote.
Call 866-OUR-VOTE if you need assistance.
Find your polling place, ID laws, and more about voting for the first time below.