US ELECTION 2024
What time do polling places open and close in Michigan? Voting hours in MI in the US Election 2024
Everything Michigan voters need to know as they cast their ballot in the Presidential Election, with Kamala Harris going head to head with Donald Trump.
With the 2024 U.S. Presidential Election upon us, Michigan 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 Michigan
On Election Day, polling places in Michigan 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 Michigan
When voting in person in Michigan, you must show your photo ID if you have it. If you do not have photo ID you can sign a form, called an affidavit, saying you don’t have photo ID and then vote a regular ballot.
Acceptable forms of photo ID include:
- Michigan driver’s license or state-issued ID card
- Driver’s license or personal identification card issued by another state
- Federal, state, or local government-issued photo identification
- US passport
- Military ID with photo
- Tribal ID card with photo
- Student identification with photo from an educational institution
If you are are first time Michigan voter and you registered to vote by mail or a voter registration drive without providing ID on your application, you will need to show a photo ID, utility bill or a government document that shows your name and current address.
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:
- Bring water, snacks, and any needed medication if you anticipate waiting for a while.
- Check your polling location ahead of time; it may have changed from previous elections.
- Review your sample ballot before you go to save time when filling out your selections.
Other useful information for Michigan voters
Absentee Voting Deadlines: The deadline to request an absentee ballot by mail or online has passed. If you have already received an absentee ballot, it must be returned to your local clerk’s office or a designated drop box by 8:00 p.m. on Election Day, November 5, 2024. Ballots received after this time will not be counted.
Provisional Ballots: If there is an issue with your registration or identification at the polling place, you may cast a provisional ballot. These ballots are counted once your eligibility is confirmed.
Voter Assistance Hotline: For any questions or concerns on Election Day, contact the nonpartisan Election Protection hotline at 866-OUR-VOTE (866-687-8683).
Key takeaways for voting in Michigan on Election Day
To ensure you’re prepared for voting in the 2024 Presidential Election in Michigan :
- Polls are open from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
- Bring an acceptable photo ID to the polling station if required.
- Choose a voting time based on expected crowd levels.
- Plan for potential wait times and bring any essentials you may need.
- Check the status of your registration and polling location before you head out.