Who's running in Virginia in 2026?
The 2026 elections are almost entirely about Congress. Sen. Mark Warner is seeking his third term and faces a Republican challenger in November. All 11 of Virginia's U.S. House seats are also on the ballot. There are also local races across the commonwealth. General Assembly districts are not affected by this year's elections.
How do I check — or update — my voter registration?
Visit vote.virginia.gov to check your current registration status, update your address, or register for the first time. The deadline to register (or update) for a regular ballot in the November election is October 19. Virginia also allows same-day voter registration at early voting sites and on Election Day — but same-day registrants cast provisional ballots, which are counted separately and subject to approval by the local election board.
Can I vote early or by absentee ballot?
Yes. Virginia offers no-excuse absentee voting — any registered voter can request a mail ballot or vote early in person without providing a reason. Early in-person voting begins 45 days before Election Day at your local registrar's office or satellite voting locations.
Do I have to do anything special to vote early?
No. There's no special requirement — just show up at your local registrar's office or a satellite early voting location. A few things are different from Election Day: you'll vote at a different location than your usual precinct, the hours follow business or special Saturday hours rather than the standard 6 a.m.–7 p.m. window, and early ballots are typically tallied ahead of Election Day results.
Where can I vote early?
Early votes can be cast at your local general registrar's office or any satellite polling stations your locality sets up. Registrar offices are generally open Monday–Friday; hours vary by location. Find your early voting site using the Virginia Department of Elections' tool at vote.virginia.gov — it's usually a different location from your Election Day precinct.
What ID do I need to bring to vote?
Virginia accepts a range of photo and non-photo IDs. Accepted forms include: a Virginia driver's license, U.S. military ID, or passport; a tribal ID issued by one of Virginia's 11 recognized tribes; a recent utility bill, bank statement, or pay stub showing your name and address; a local, state, or federal government document with your name and address; or an ELECT-issued voter registration card. If you don't have an acceptable ID, you can sign an ID Confirmation Statement at the polls to cast a regular ballot.
What if I make a mistake on my ballot?
If you're voting in person and make a mistake, notify a poll worker — they can void the spoiled ballot and issue you a new one. If voting absentee by mail, contact your local registrar's office as soon as possible for guidance before submitting.
How do I find my Election Day polling place?
Your polling place is listed on your voter registration card and can be looked up anytime using the Virginia Department of Elections' "Where Do I Vote" tool on vote.virginia.gov.
Can I vote in person on Election Day?
Yes. Polls are open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Election Day, November 3. If you're in line by 7 p.m., you are entitled to vote even if the line extends past closing time.
Can I vote if I have a felony conviction?
Virginians with a past felony conviction may have their voting rights restored by the Governor. You can check your status or apply for restoration of rights through the Secretary of the Commonwealth's office.
Will I get an "I Voted" sticker if I vote early?
Yes — early voters typically receive a sticker. Whether it's your locality's latest design may vary by location. Ask your local elections office!
