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 Texas.
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 10/23/2023 and ends on 11/03/2023
To find early voting locations in Texas, visit the the My Voter Page.
Voting by mail is a two step process in Texas. Step 1: Request your ballot NOW. The deadline for your application to be received is October 27th. You must have an excuse to qualify to vote with an absentee ballot. Step 2: Complete and return your ballot ASAP.
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 complete your ballot, be sure to sign 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.
You must have a valid photo ID to vote in person or return your absentee ballot in person. Info here on what qualifies. If voting by mail you will need to submit an acceptable ID if this is the first time you are applying to vote by mail in Texas. You do not need to send ID in with your ballot, but the signature on the ballot will be matched to the signature on the voter registration form.
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)
Only YOU can hand-deliver or return a ballot by mail, unless you complete the assistance portion of the carrier envelope.
Look Up Ballot Drop Off LocationsClick here to track your ballot. Your state offers electronic, barcode ballot tracking services to military and overseas voters. 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 may 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.