US ELECTION 2024
What time do polling places open and close in Montana? Voting hours in MT in the US Election 2024
Everything Montana 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, Montana 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 Montana
On Election Day, polling places in Montana open at 7:00 a.m. and close at 8:00 p.m. If you’re in line by 8:00 p.m., you are entitled to vote.
In areas with fewer than 400 registered voters, polling places may open as late as 12:00 noon.
What to bring to vote in Montana
Montana law requires voters to present identification at the polls. Acceptable forms of ID include:
- A driver’s license or state ID card issued by Montana or another state
- A tribal photo ID
- A U.S. passport
- A military ID card
- A Montana concealed carry permit
If you do not have one of those, you can present any other form of photo ID containing your name, combined with a utility bill, bank statement, pay statement, confirmation of voter registration, government check, or other government document that 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 Montana voters
Absentee Voting Deadlines: The deadline to request an absentee ballot by mail has passed. If you have already received an absentee ballot, it must be returned to your county election office by 8:00 p.m. on Election Day, November 5, 2024. Ballots can be returned by mail or in person.
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 Montana Secretary of State’s office at 1-888-884-8683
Key takeaways for voting in Montana on Election Day
To ensure you’re prepared for voting in the 2024 Presidential Election in Montana :
- Polls are open from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Note that in smaller towns polls may open as late as 12 noon.
- Bring an acceptable photo ID to the polling station.
- 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.