With the 2024 U.S. Presidential Election upon us, Maryland voters are getting ready to head to the polls on Tuesday, Nov. 5. This guide outlines polling hours, what you need to bring to vote, and other key information to help ensure a smooth experience on Election Day itself.

Polling hours in Maryland

On Election Day, polling places in Maryland open at 7 a.m. and close at 8 p.m. If you’re in line by 8 p.m., you’ll be allowed to cast your vote, even if it takes additional time to reach the voting booth.

What to bring to vote in Maryland

If you’ve voted in Maryland before or provided ID at the time of registration, you don’t need to provide ID to vote in person. If you’re voting for the first time in Maryland and submitted your registration by mail you may be asked to show one of the following forms of ID:

A copy of a current and valid photo ID card (i.e., Maryland driver’s license, MVA-issued ID card, student, employee, or military ID card, U.S. passport, or any other State or federal government-issued ID card); or a copy of a utility bill, bank statement, government check, paycheck or other government document that shows your name and address and that is dated within 3 months of the election.

Make sure your ID is current and not expired, as this is required for it to be accepted.

If you don’t have an acceptable ID, you can obtain a free photo voter ID card from your local county Board of Registrars office or a mobile ID unit. It’s a good idea to check that you have the necessary ID ahead of Election Day to avoid any last-minute issues at the polls.

Expected wait times and tips for a smooth voting experience

Line lengths can vary depending on the time of day and the location. Here’s a general guide:

Early Morning (7:00 - 10:00 a.m.): Many people vote early, so lines can be longer right when polling places open. If you can, avoid the 7 a.m - 8 a.m. slot.

Midday (10 a.m. - 3 p.m.): Lines are often shorter, as this period sees fewer voters. If you have a flexible schedule, this is usually the best time to avoid long waits. That said, there is usually an increase between 11:30 and 1:30 p.m. so if you can avoid that two hour slot.

Late Afternoon and Evening (3 p.m. - 8 p.m.): Crowds tend to increase as people leave work, so lines can grow longer as polling places near closing. 5 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. is usually the busiest.

To make your voting experience easier:

Other useful information for Maryland voters

The deadlines to register for absentee voting have now passed. Absentee ballots returned by mail must be received by noon on Election Day.

Provisional Ballots: If there’s an issue with your registration or ID, you may be allowed to cast a provisional ballot. These ballots are only counted once your eligibility is confirmed.

Voter Hotline: Maryland’s Secretary of State office provides assistance via a voter hotline. Call 800-222-8683 if you have any questions or concerns on Election Day.

Key takeaways for voting in Maryland on Election Day

To ensure you’re prepared for voting in the 2024 Presidential Election in Maryland: