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Voting is one of our most important civic responsibilities, but sometimes it can be tricky to make it to the polls on Election Day. Thankfully, there are plenty of opportunities to get your vote in early in the state of Texas. We’ve put together a quick rundown of everything you need to know about early voting in the Lone Star State, from eligibility to actually making sure your vote gets counted.
The History of Early Voting in Texas
According to websites like VoteTexas, in-person early voting as we know it today began right here in Texas in the 1980s. It originally began as a way to help people with special circumstances, but was eventually implemented more broadly so that anyone who is registered to vote can participate. Early voting has made it easier for more people to vote, and has helped make the process smoother.
Who Is Eligible for Early Voting?
As long as you are registered to vote in the state of Texas, you can participate in early voting. But make sure to check your registration status in advance; you need to be registered at least 30 days before the election you intend to vote in, or you won’t be able to cast your vote. Texas makes it easy to check your registration status online or apply if you’ve never registered before. VoteTexas has all the information you’ll need to get started.
How Is Early Voting Different from Voting on Election Day?
The biggest difference between early voting and voting on Election Day is the flexibility. You have a lot more time to get to the polls during the early voting period, but if you wait for Election Day, you only have that one day. That means you could be standing in line for hours! There are also tons of early voting locations throughout the state, meaning smaller crowds and less stress.
When Is Early Voting?
In Texas, early voting usually begins 17 days before an election and ends four days before the official Election Day. So for the upcoming election taking place on November 5, in-person early voting begins on Monday, October 21 and ends on Friday, November 1. You can also check your local polling locations to see what dates and times they’re open for early voting.
Where Do People Go to Vote Early?
Early voting locations vary, but they typically include public libraries, schools, city halls, and recreation centers. Texas organizes its early voting locations by county, so you can check out your local county government’s website for specific information. To find an early voting location near you, check here.
What Do You Need to Bring to an Early Voting Location?
To vote early in Texas, just like voting on Election Day, you need to bring an approved form of photo ID. This includes a Texas driver’s license, Texas ID card, U.S. passport, and the like. Check out a full list here.
If you don’t have a current approved photo ID, you need to fill out a Reasonable Impediment Declaration at the polls and bring an alternate form of ID. This could be a certified original birth certificate or even a current utility bill with your name on it.
If you need an accommodation while voting, rest assured that you don’t need to bring anything to prove it. Simply tell one of the election officials that are there and they can get you set up. You can also bring along an interpreter if you need one, as long as they’re not your employer.
You can’t bring electronic devices (cell phone, laptop, camera, etc) or wear any sort of political apparel to vote, whether that’s early or on Election Day.
Why Vote Early in Texas?
There are several reasons why you might want to vote early in Texas. Because you get to choose a date and time that works best for you, there will likely be less stress than trying to vote on Election Day —there’s plenty of time to get any issues sorted out if something isn’t right when you show up to the polls.
Voting is essential, so whether you choose to vote on Election Day or during the early voting period, make sure your voice is heard.
