Voting in
Illinois
Your Voting Cheat Sheet
Illinois offers same-day voter registration and one of the longest early voting periods in the nation, beginning 40 days before Election Day. No photo ID is required. The state also provides no-excuse mail-in voting.
Upcoming Elections in Illinois
Illinois Primary Election
Illinois primary elections determine party nominees for the upcoming general election, including key congressional and state-level races.
- • U.S. Senate nomination
- • U.S. House nominations (all 17 districts)
- • Governor nomination
- +1 more
Chicago Municipal Election
Chicago holds municipal elections for city council seats and other local offices. These races shape city governance on issues like public safety, housing, and infrastructure.
- • City Council (select wards)
- • Board of Education members
- • Local ballot measures
2026 Federal Midterm General Election
The 2026 midterm general election determines control of Congress and numerous governorships. All 435 U.S. House seats, approximately 33-34 U.S. Senate seats, and 36 governorships are on the ballot.
- • U.S. Senate (33-34 seats)
- • U.S. House of Representatives (all 435 seats)
- • Gubernatorial races (36 states)
- +3 more
Registration Deadlines
Quick Facts
Voter ID Requirements
Illinois does not require photo ID to vote. Voters verify their identity by signing a poll book. First-time voters who registered by mail may need to show ID.
Early Voting
Absentee / Mail-In Voting
Election Day Polling Hours
6:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Election Day: November 3, 2026
Key Facts
- Same-day voter registration is available during early voting and on Election Day
- Early voting begins 40 days before Election Day, one of the longest periods in the US
- No photo ID is required to vote
- No-excuse mail-in voting is available
- Grace period registration and voting is available at the election authority's office
Official Resources
Find Your Polling Place
Enter your address to find your specific polling location and see what's on your ballot.
Lookup NowGet Illinois Election Reminders
We'll email you before registration deadlines and elections in Illinois.
From the Digest Network
Want to know who's funding these candidates?
Track the bills your representatives are voting on.