The short answer: Florida's General Election is Tuesday, November 3, 2026. Polls are open 7 AM to 7 PM. You can vote by mail (request your ballot by 5 PM on Thursday, October 22), vote early at a county site, or vote on Election Day. Plan now so you are not rushed.
Key Dates
- Monday, October 5: Last day to register to vote or update your registration for this election.
- Thursday, October 22, 5 PM: Last day to request a mail ballot.
- October 24 to 31: Early voting that every county must offer. Many counties start earlier, as early as October 19, and some run through November 1. Hours are at least 8 and no more than 12 a day at each site.
- Tuesday, November 3, 7 AM to 7 PM: Election Day. If you are in line at 7 PM, you can still vote.
- Tuesday, November 3, 7 PM: Mail ballots must be received by your Supervisor of Elections by this time.
Early voting dates and sites vary by county, so check with your county Supervisor of Elections. Find your county's office and a voter lookup tool at the Florida Division of Elections.
Option 1: Vote by Mail
Mail voting is popular with Florida seniors because you can fill out the ballot at your kitchen table, with your sample ballot and a magnifier if you need one.
- How to request: Contact your county Supervisor of Elections by phone, in person or in writing. Have your name, date of birth, address and one of these ready: your Florida driver license number, Florida ID card number, or the last four digits of your Social Security number.
- How long a request lasts: A request covers elections through the end of the calendar year of the next general election. After that you must ask again. If you are not sure your request is active, call your Supervisor of Elections.
- How to return it: By mail, in person, or in a secure drop box at your Supervisor's office or at early voting sites. Drop boxes at Supervisor offices are open until 7 PM on Election Day.
- Mail it early: State officials recommend mailing your ballot at least one week before Election Day. Do not wait until the last days.
- Sign the envelope: Your signature has to match the one on file. If it does not, your Supervisor will contact you. You can fix it with a form and a copy of your ID, but only until 5 PM on the second day after the election.
- Track it: Use your county's online ballot lookup, or call, to see that your ballot arrived.
Option 2: Vote Early in Person
Early voting is a good choice if you want to avoid Election Day crowds. Lines are usually shorter, and you can pick a time of day that is best for you. Any early voting site in your county works, no matter where you live in that county.
Option 3: Vote on Election Day
On Election Day you vote at your assigned polling place, which is listed on your voter information card and on your county's voter lookup page. Polling places can change, so confirm yours a few days ahead.
What ID to Bring to Vote in Person
Florida requires a current photo ID at the polls. If your photo ID does not show your signature, you need a second ID that does. Accepted photo IDs include:
- Florida driver license or Florida ID card
- U.S. passport
- Debit or credit card
- Military ID
- Student ID
- Retirement center ID, which helps residents of senior communities
- Neighborhood association ID
- Public assistance ID
- U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs health ID card
- Concealed weapon or firearm license
- Employee ID issued by a federal, state, county or city government
Help for Voters Who Need It
- Help marking your ballot: Voters who need help because of a disability, or because of difficulty reading or writing, may bring someone to assist or ask poll workers for help.
- Accessible voting: Every polling place and early voting site must have equipment for voters with disabilities. Ask your Supervisor of Elections about options.
- Getting there: If you need a ride, see our guide to senior transportation services, or call your county senior services office. Many counties and local groups offer rides to the polls.
- Large-print info: Your Supervisor of Elections can tell you what sample ballots and materials are available.
Know What Is On Your Ballot
Look at your sample ballot early. It is mailed to registered voters and posted on your county's elections website. One statewide question many Florida homeowners are asking about is Amendment 3. Read our plain-language explainer: Florida Amendment 3 and the homestead property tax vote.
Voter Scam Warning
Be careful of calls, texts and emails claiming you must "confirm" your registration or pay a fee to vote. Your Supervisor of Elections will never ask for your bank information or Social Security number to vote by phone. When in doubt, hang up and call your county elections office directly. See our scam alert for Florida seniors.
Quick Checklist
- Check that you are registered and your address is correct.
- Decide how you will vote: mail, early or Election Day.
- If voting by mail, ask for your ballot by October 22 and return it early.
- If voting in person, pack your photo ID, a sample ballot and a bottle of water.
- Arrange a ride if you need one.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical, financial, or legal advice. Readers should consult a qualified healthcare provider for medical concerns, a financial advisor for financial planning, and an attorney for legal matters. The resources and programs mentioned are subject to eligibility requirements and availability, which may vary. While we strive for accuracy, the information provided may not reflect the most recent updates. Always verify details with official sources or professionals before making decisions based on this content.