North Carolina midterm elections 2026: Where to register, find your polling place and cast your vote

North Carolina voters will head to the polls on November 3 for the 2026 midterm elections. Early voting begins October 15 and runs through October 31. Voters can check their registration, find their polling place and review their sample ballot online. Here is a guide to key dates, voter ID rules and ways to cast a ballot, according to North Carolina.

According to the North Carolina State Board of Elections, polls will be open from 6:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. on Election Day. Voters who are in line at their assigned polling place by 7:30 p.m. will be allowed to vote.

When does early voting begin in North Carolina?

For the November 2026 general election, in-person early voting in North Carolina begins on Thursday, October 15. It ends at 3 p.m. on Saturday, October 31. Eligible voters can use any early-voting site in the county where they are registered.


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“We look forward to a smooth and successful early voting period,” said Sam Hayes, executive director of the State Board of Elections.

How to check voter registration and find your polling place

• Check registration: Use the state’s Voter Search tool to confirm your registration status.
• Find your polling place: Use the state’s Election Day polling-place search.
• View your sample ballot: The Voter Search tool also lets you review the contests on your ballot.
• Registration deadline: The regular deadline was October 9 at 5 p.m.
• If anyone missed the deadline eligible residents may still register and vote during early voting.

What ID do voters need in North Carolina?

• Photo ID required: Voters must show an acceptable photo ID when voting in person.
• Accepted IDs: These include a North Carolina driver’s license, state ID card and certain approved government, student and employee IDs.
• No acceptable ID? Voters may be eligible for a free voter ID from their county board of elections or the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles.
• Check the rules: See the official North Carolina photo ID guide for the full list and available alternatives.