US ELECTION 2024
What time do polling places close in Nebraska? NE state closing times in the US Election 2024
Everything Nebraska 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, Nebraska 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.
Follow US Election 2024 live updates: Trump vs Harris Presidential Race.
Polling hours in Nebraska
On Election Day, polling places in Nebraska open from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Central Time and from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Mountain Time. If you’re in line by closing time, you are entitled to vote.
What to bring to vote in Nebraska
Nebraska law requires voters to present a valid photo ID at the polls. Acceptable forms of identification include:
- A valid Nebraska driver’s license or state ID card
- A U.S. passport
- A military ID card
- A student ID card from an accredited institution of higher education in Nebraska
- A tribal ID card
- A Nebraska voter identification card
If you do not possess an acceptable photo ID, you can obtain a free Nebraska Voter Identification Card from your local county clerk’s office
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 Nebraska 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 local election authority by 8:00 p.m. Central Time (7:00 p.m. Mountain Time) 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 Nebraska Secretary of State’s office at 1-888-727-0007.
Key takeaways for voting in Nebraska on Election Day
To ensure you’re prepared for voting in the 2024 Presidential Election in Nebraska :
- Polls are open from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Central Time and from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Mountain Time.
- 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.