Early Voting in Massachusetts: Your Guide

Massachusetts is testing out its first year of early voting for the general election, offering registered voters a chance to vote in-person up to 11 days before Election Day on Nov. 8.

On the ballot is the big presidential election, of course, as well as four statewide ballot initiatives that could lift the number of possible state-licensed charter schools, legalize recreational marijuana and more. More on those here.

Here's what you need to know.

When is early voting?

Oct. 24–Nov. 4

Who can vote early?

Any voter registered in Massachusetts is eligible to vote early in person. The last day to register to vote in this November's General Election is Oct. 19. You can register online here.

Where do I vote?

Qualified voters may vote early in person at a designated early voting location or by mail. For specific, in-person early voting locations and hours, check with your local election official.

Why early voting?

The law for early voting was signed in 2014 by former Gov. Deval Patrick, and mandates a 10-day voting window before Election Day during the statewide elections, held every two years. This is Massachusetts' first year putting that law into practice.

What do I need to vote?

That depends. You will need to show official identification to a poll worker if it's your first time voting in Massachusetts or your registration status is inactive because you haven’t voted lately. You can check your voter registration status here.

A poll worker can additionally request ID if they have reason to be suspicious of your identity, or if you have to complete a provisional or challenged ballot at the polls. More on those situations here.

The following identification documents are acceptable: driver’s license, state-issued ID, recent utility bill, signed lease, rent receipt, or a sworn statement that you're a registered, active voter. You can also show any other official document that includes your name and address.

What's on the ballot?

Voters statewide will be weighing in on the next President of the United States, and on four statewide ballot initiatives. There are also a handful of competitive local elections on the ballot.

Find out what's on your ballot here.

And remember...

Even if you don't cast your ballot during the early voting period, you can also vote as usual on Election Day, Nov. 8. Polls are open statewide from 7 a.m. until 8 p.m., although some towns open earlier.

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