Register to Vote for the 2026 General Election
October 1, 2026
Have you made a plan to vote in the 2026 General Election? In Pennsylvania, the deadline to register to vote in the November 3 election is Monday, October 19. Voting is an important civic duty that gives us the opportunity to exercise our freedoms and choose the officials we want to represent us, our families, and our community in local, state, and federal offices. We encourage all eligible voters to participate in this upcoming election.
It is important to make sure your information is up to date and your registration is valid before you head to the polls. You can register to vote online, by mail, or at a number of government agencies like PennDOT Photo License and Driver’s License Centers. If you are already registered, you do not need to register again unless you have changed your name, address, or political affiliation. Voter registration requirements can be found online if you would like to check your eligibility.
If you are a first-time voter or have a new polling place this year, have everything prepared and ready to go so you can cast your ballot on Tuesday, November 3. Be sure to bring a photo or non-photo ID to verify your registration details with poll workers. Polls are open from 7:00 A.M. to 8:00 P.M., with the busiest times being in the morning and evening. As long as you are in line at or before 8:00 P.M., you will still be allowed to vote. You can look up your polling place online if you are not sure where you vote.
If you cannot make it to the polls in person or would prefer to vote by mail, Pennsylvania allows all registered voters to cast their ballot by mail. You can apply online and do not need an exemption or excuse. Just like in-person voting, mail ballots are available in multiple languages. You can also vote before election day in person by dropping off your mail ballot at a county election office or another designated location. More information about on-demand mail ballot voting can be found online. The deadline to apply for a mail ballot for the November 3 election is Tuesday, October 27.
For more information on elections and voter support in Pennsylvania, visit the state’s Voting & Election Information website. The state has also compiled a list of frequently asked questions about voting basics, mail ballots, election security, and other Election Day procedures. The Lackawanna County Department of Elections & Voter Registration provides sample ballots, certified results, and local contact information.
