Iowa › How to vote
How to vote in Iowa — November 3, 2026
A plain-English checklist for the general election.
- Am I registered to vote in Iowa?Check with the Iowa Secretary of State voter lookup (sos.iowa.gov/amiregistered). It also shows your polling place.
- Can I still register to vote?Yes. Pre-registration closed October 19, but Iowa allows Election Day registration at your polling place with ID and proof of residence.
- What ID do I need to vote in Iowa?An Iowa driver’s license or nonoperator ID, U.S. passport, military or veterans ID, tribal ID, or your signed Iowa Voter ID card. Without one, a registered voter from your precinct can attest for you, or you can vote a provisional ballot.
- When can I vote early?Early in-person voting runs October 14 through Monday, November 2, 2026 at your county auditor’s office.
- How do I return my absentee ballot?Your ballot must reach your county auditor before polls close at 8 p.m. on Tuesday, November 3. A postmark is not enough.
- What are the polling hours on Election Day?Polls are open 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Tuesday, November 3, 2026. If you are in line by 8 p.m., you can vote.
- Can I bring notes into the voting booth?Yes. You may bring a printed or written list of your choices, such as your ballot plan.