Ohio voters are deciding their preferred gubernatorial and Senate candidates for the 2026 election on November 3, with many polls showing close races for both offices. But you don't have to wait until Election Day to cast your vote.
When does early voting begin in Ohio? Here’s what to know and how to vote early.
When does early voting begin in Ohio?
Early voting begins the day after the voter registration deadline, according to the Ohio Secretary of State website.
Voter registration ends on Oct. 5 for this coming election. Early voting will begin on Oct. 6.
How do I register to vote in Ohio?
You can register to vote in the state of Ohio here. You can also update your voter registration information using the same link.
Be sure to have the following handy when registering to vote:
- Ohio driver’s license or Ohio identification card number
- Name
- Date of Birth
- Address
- Last four digits of your Social Security number
How can I vote early in Ohio?
After you register to vote, you have many
options to vote early before Nov. 3.
You can vote by mail by requesting an absentee ballot — you can print the request at home, or the application can be mailed to you. More information on absentee ballots is available on the Secretary of State website.
Those with disabilities can request an accessible absentee ballot, which uses assistive technology for an accessible format. More information about the accessible absentee format is available here.
Curbside voting is also available for those who are physically unable to enter early voting polls but can complete a ballot in their car. For this option, contact your county board of elections.
Early voting can also be done in person. Poll locations open on Oct. 6, per Ohio’s voting schedule. Early In-person voting locations will be open Oct. 6–9, Oct. 12–16, Oct. 19–24 and Oct. 27-Nov. 1. You can find your early voting location by county here.
What are Ohio voting hours on Election Day 2026?
Polls will be open from 6:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. on Election Day, Tuesday, Nov. 3. Absentee ballots must be returned to local boards of elections by 7:30 p.m.
This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Ohio early voting dates to know ahead of Election Day 2026
