How to vote in Alabama in 2026
Every deadline, rule, and official link — kept simple. When you're ready, build a personal plan with calendar reminders in about a minute.
Key dates
- State Primary
- Tuesday, May 19, 2026
- State Primary Runoff
- Tuesday, June 16, 2026
- General Election
- Tuesday, November 3, 2026
- Register online by
- Monday, October 19, 2026
- Register by mail by
- Monday, October 19, 2026(postmarked)
- Register in person by
- Monday, October 19, 2026
- Request a mail ballot by
- Tuesday, October 27, 2026
Deadlines shown are for the November 3, 2026 general election.
Register to vote
Online: 15 days before Election Day. By mail: Postmarked 15 days before Election Day. In person: 15 days before Election Day.
Online — the fastest way
A few minutes on the official site.
By mail
Print, sign, and mail the National Mail Voter Registration Form.
In person
At your local election office or DMV.
Already registered? Double-check.
Vote by mail
Alabama requires an approved excuse to vote by mail. Received 7 days before Election Day
Returning it: Received by noon on Election Day if delivered by mail or if delivered by medical emergency designee. Received by 5pm on the day before the election if hand delivered.
Vote in person
Vote early where available (dates vary by county), or at your polling place on Election Day — Tuesday, November 3, 2026.
Quick answers
Can I register to vote online in Alabama?
Yes — Alabama has official online registration (deadline: Monday, October 19, 2026 for the general election). It usually takes a few minutes.
Do I need an excuse to vote by mail?
Yes — Alabama requires an approved excuse (like being away, illness, or disability) to vote by mail.
Can I register on Election Day?
No — same-day registration isn't available in Alabama, so the advance deadline is the one that counts. Online: 15 days before Election Day. By mail: Postmarked 15 days before Election Day. In person: 15 days before Election Day.
When are the 2026 elections?
State Primary: Tuesday, May 19, 2026 · State Primary Runoff: Tuesday, June 16, 2026 · General Election: Tuesday, November 3, 2026
Turn this into your plan
Three questions, then every Alabama deadline lands on your calendar with reminders.
Make your voting planCompiled from official state sources, vote.gov, and Ballotpedia (2026 calendars). Rules occasionally change — when it matters, confirm with the Alabama election office. Found an error? Tell us.