HOUSTON — Early voting begins Monday, Oct. 19, across Texas, opening a 12-day window for millions of registered voters to cast their ballots before the Nov. 3 general election.
From Houston and Fort Bend County to communities across the state, voters will help determine who represents them in Congress, the Texas Legislature, statewide offices and local government.
The election comes as Texas reaches a new milestone: approximately 19 million registered voters, according to the secretary of state’s office.
That number reflects the size of the electorate heading into an election in which voters will decide races for U.S. Senate, governor, attorney general and other statewide positions. Congressional, judicial and local contests also appear on ballots, depending on where voters live.
For those who want to avoid Election Day crowds or need flexibility around work, school and family schedules, early voting offers an opportunity to participate before Nov. 3.
Texas allows eligible registered voters to cast ballots early without providing a special reason.
In the Houston area, polling places are available throughout Harris, Fort Bend and neighboring counties. Voters should consult their county election offices for specific locations and hours, which may vary.
Harris County offers more than 70 early voting centers, with most locations open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. during the early voting period. Sunday, Oct. 25, hours are noon to 7 p.m.
In Fort Bend County, early voting generally runs from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., with participating locations open from noon to 6 p.m. on Sunday. Some locations have different schedules.
Voters should also confirm that their registration information is accurate before heading to the polls. Recent statewide voter registration processing delays have raised concerns about whether some newly submitted or updated records were processed in time for the election.
Anyone uncertain about their registration status can check through the Texas secretary of state’s voter information website or contact their county voter registrar.
Voters should bring an acceptable form of identification, review their sample ballots and confirm where they are eligible to vote.
The final day of early voting is Friday, Oct. 30. Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 3, when polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
For those planning to request a ballot by mail, applications must be received by the appropriate early voting clerk no later than Friday, Oct. 23.
Whether voting early or waiting until Election Day, residents can prepare by researching the candidates and issues appearing on their ballots.
Important election dates
- Oct. 19: Early voting begins
- Oct. 23: Deadline for receipt of mail ballot applications
- Oct. 30: Early voting ends
- Nov. 3: Election Day
For statewide voter registration and election information, visit VoteTexas.gov.
Houston-area voters can find local election information at HarrisVotes.com and the Fort Bend County Elections Office.
