How to vote in South Carolina 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, June 9, 2026
- State Primary Runoff
- Tuesday, June 23, 2026
- General Election
- Tuesday, November 3, 2026
- Register online by
- Sunday, October 4, 2026
- Register by mail by
- Monday, October 5, 2026(postmarked)
- Register in person by
- Friday, October 2, 2026
- Request a mail ballot by
- Friday, October 23, 2026
Deadlines shown are for the November 3, 2026 general election.
Register to vote
30 days before Election Day (online, by mail, and in person).
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
South Carolina requires an approved excuse to vote by mail. Received by 5:00pm 4 days prior to the election
Returning it: Received by 7pm on Election Day.
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 South Carolina?
Yes — South Carolina has official online registration (deadline: Sunday, October 4, 2026 for the general election). It usually takes a few minutes.
Do I need an excuse to vote by mail?
Yes — South Carolina 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 South Carolina, so the advance deadline is the one that counts. 30 days before Election Day (online, by mail, and in person).
When are the 2026 elections?
State Primary: Tuesday, June 9, 2026 · State Primary Runoff: Tuesday, June 23, 2026 · General Election: Tuesday, November 3, 2026
Turn this into your plan
Three questions, then every South Carolina 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 South Carolina election office. Found an error? Tell us.