About
Five easy steps to vote by mail in
Virginia
Updated Oct 12, 2020
Register to vote
Your deadline to register online is October 13. You can register here.
If registering by mail, make sure it's postmarked by October 13, or received by October 13 if done in person!
Get your ballot
You can request an absentee ballot without an excuse.
Make sure your application is received by October 23 whether returning it in person, by mail, or applying online.
Fill in your ballot
Make sure you completely fill in your selections and double-check everything you write in.
Not sure where to research candidates and referendums? Resources like BallotReady provide clear, non-partisan explanations for everything.
Sign and seal
Most ballots have specific instructions on how and where to sign and seal both ballot and envelope. Read the instructions carefully.
You may be required to obtain a witness signature.
Mail in or drop off ballot
In Virginia, your voted ballot must be returned to General Registrar's Office, a local polling place on Election Day, or via drop boxes. Use our search tool or check with your local election officials for updates on drop box locations closer to the election.
Make sure to drop your ballot off by November 3.
If sending by mail, your ballot needs to be postmarked by November 3, but you want to send it as soon as possible to allow ample time for processing.
