US ELECTION 2024
What time do polling places open and close in Virginia? Voting hours in VA in the US Election 2024
Everything Virginia 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, Virginia 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 Virginia
On Election Day, polling places in Virginia open at 6:00 a.m. and close at 7:00 p.m. If you are in line by 7:00 p.m., you will be allowed to vote. To find your specific polling place, visit the Virginia Department of Elections website.
What to bring to vote in Virginia
Virginia law requires voters to present an acceptable form of identification at the polls. Acceptable forms include:
- Virginia driver’s license (can be expired)
- Any identification issued by Virginia, one of its political subdivisions (including the 11 Indian tribes recognized in Virginia), or the United States, other than a driver privilege card
- Voter confirmation documents received after registering to vote
- A copy of a current utility bill, bank statement, government check, paycheck, or other government document containing the name and address of the voter.
You can also use the following IDs provided they are current or not expired for more than a year:
- U.S. passport
- A student identification card issued by any institution of higher education located in Virginia or any private school located in Virginia
- A student identification card containing a photograph of the voter and issued by any institution of high education located in any other state or territory of the United States
- An employee identification card containing a photograph of the voter and issued by an employer of the voter in the ordinary course of the employer’s business
Expected wait times and tips for a smooth voting experience in Virginia
Line lengths can vary depending on the time of day and the location. Here’s a general guide:
Early Morning (6:00 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 Virginia voters
Mail-In Voting: The deadline to request a mail-in ballot has passed. If you have already received a mail-in ballot, it must be postmarked by Election Day, November 5, 2024, and received by your local registrar’s office by noon on November 8, 2024. Ballots can be returned by mail, in person, or via designated drop boxes. For more information, visit the Virginia Department of Elections website.
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 Virginia Department of Elections at 1-800-552-9745..
Key takeaways for voting in Virginia on Election Day
To ensure you’re prepared for voting in the 2024 Presidential Election in Virginia :
- Poll opening hours are from 6:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
- Bring an acceptable form of 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.