Voting in
Kentucky

KYUpdated February 1, 2026

Your Voting Cheat Sheet

Kentucky requires an approved excuse for absentee voting and mandates photo ID at the polls. The state offers limited early voting during the period before Election Day. Registration must be completed 29 days before the election.

Online Reg Available

Upcoming Elections in Kentucky

General

2026 Federal Midterm General Election

Nationwide

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.

Key Races
  • U.S. Senate (33-34 seats)
  • U.S. House of Representatives (all 435 seats)
  • Gubernatorial races (36 states)
  • +3 more
249 days away

Registration Deadlines

220 days until earliest deadline
OnlineOctober 5, 2026
By MailOctober 5, 2026
In PersonOctober 5, 2026
Register Now

Quick Facts

Online Registration
Yes
Same-Day Registration
No
Voter ID Required
Yes
No-Excuse Absentee
No

Voter ID Requirements

Kentucky requires a valid photo ID to vote. Acceptable forms include a driver's license, passport, military ID, or other government-issued photo ID. Voters without ID can cast a provisional ballot after signing an affirmation.

Early Voting

StartsOctober 22, 2026
EndsNovember 2, 2026

Absentee / Mail-In Voting

No-Excuse Absentee No
Request DeadlineOctober 27, 2026
Return DeadlineNovember 3, 2026

Election Day Polling Hours

6:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Election Day: November 3, 2026

Key Facts

  • Photo ID is required to vote; a provisional ballot option exists for those without ID
  • Absentee voting requires an approved excuse such as military service, illness, or work schedule
  • Early voting is available for a limited period before Election Day
  • Registration deadline is 29 days before the election
  • Polls close at 6:00 PM, one of the earliest closing times in the nation

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