Ways to Vote

Americans can vote in several ways, including in person on Election Day, during early voting, or by mail. The best option depends on your schedule, accessibility needs, and state rules.

Voting In Person and By Mail

Many voters cast a ballot in person at a polling place, either on Election Day or during an early voting period offered by their state. Others vote from home with a mail-in or absentee ballot, which usually means requesting a ballot, completing it carefully, and returning it by mail or to a secure drop-off location.

Provisional vs. Regular Ballots

Most voters cast a regular ballot, which is counted after basic eligibility checks are complete. If there are questions about your registration, identification, or polling location, you may be asked to use a provisional ballot instead. Election officials count provisional ballots only after confirming you were eligible to vote.

How Ballots Are Cast

Across the country, ballots may be marked on paper or on electronic voting machines, depending on state and local rules. Some jurisdictions have also explored newer voting technologies in limited pilot programs.