US ELECTION 2024
What time do polling places open and close in Texas? Voting hours in TX in the US Election 2024
Everything Texas 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, Texas 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 Texas
On Election Day, polling places in Texas are open from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. local time. If you are in line by 7:00 p.m., you will be allowed to vote.
What to bring to vote in Texas
Texas requires voters to present a valid photo ID at the polls. Acceptable forms of identification include:
- Texas driver’s license
- Texas Election Identification Certificate
- Texas personal identification card
- Texas handgun license
- United States military identification card containing your photograph
- United States citizenship certificate containing your photograph
- United States passport
If you do not possess an acceptable form of photo ID and cannot reasonably obtain one, you may present a supporting form of identification and execute a Reasonable Impediment Declaration. Supporting forms of ID include:
- A certified birth certificate
- A valid voter registration certificate
- A copy or original of a current utility bill, bank statement, government check, paycheck, or other government document that shows your name and address
For more details on identification requirements, visit the Texas Secretary of State’s website.
Expected wait times and tips for a smooth voting experience in Texas
Line lengths can vary depending on the time of day and the location. Here’s a general guide:
Early Morning (7:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m.): High turnout as polls open; expect longer lines.
Midday (9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.): Typically shorter lines; an ideal time for those with flexible schedules.
Late Afternoon and Evening (3:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.): Increased activity as voters arrive after work; lines may lengthen.
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 Texas voters
Absentee Voting Deadlines: The deadline to request a mail-in ballot has passed. If you have already received a mail-in ballot, it must be postmarked by 7:00 p.m. on Election Day, November 5, 2024, and received by the early voting clerk by 5:00 p.m. on November 6, 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 Texas Secretary of State’s office at 1-800-252-VOTE (8683).
Key takeaways for voting in Texas on Election Day
To ensure you’re prepared for voting in the 2024 Presidential Election in Texas :
- Poll opening hours are 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. local 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.