Getting Ready for November 2026’s Election

Election season is here in Tennessee! On November 3, 2026, eligible Tennesseans will head to the polls to vote.  A little planning can make voting easier.  

Disclaimer: The voter registration deadline for the November 3rd election was on October 5, 2026. It is important to check your voter registration status to know if you are eligible to cast a ballot. Click here to check your Tennessee voter registration status.  

Registered to vote and want to learn more? Keep reading for: 

1. Making a voting plan 
2. What to expect when you vote 
3. Absentee Voting 101 

Making a Voting Plan

When you go to cast your ballot in-person either through early voting or on election day, it can make you feel more comfortable by making a voting plan. Now grab a piece of paper and something to write with. 

What if I want to write my voting plan down in my phone or other communication device? 

 You can bring a phone or electronic device into the voting booth if you would like to make notes that way. But remember,  

(a) A county election commission shall not prohibit a voter from using a mobile electronic or communication device at a polling place for informational purposes to assist the voter in making election decisions. A county election commission may require that any mobile electronic or communication device be silenced while in use at the polling place. 

(b) Any voter using a mobile electronic or communication device as allowed in subsection (a) shall be prohibited from using the device for telephone conversations, recording, or taking photographs or videos while inside the polling place. (See TN Code § 2-7-142 (2025)) 

Step 1: Check your voter registration status 

The first step is to make sure you are registered to vote  

and know where your polling place is located. Checking this information before Election Day can help you know where to go and what to expect. 

Step 2: Decide how you want to vote 

Next, decide how you would like to vote. Some people prefer to vote early, while others choose to vote on Election Day. 

Tennessee offers the following voting options for eligible voters: 

• Early voting: Vote in person before Election Day. 
• Absentee voting: Vote by mail if you qualify. 
• Election Day voting: Vote in person on November 3. 

If you plan to vote in person, remember to bring a valid Tennessee or federal government-issued photo ID. 

Step 3: Find your voting district 

Step 4: Find your polling location 

Step 5: Learn What’s on Your Ballot 

Before you vote, take some time to find out what will be on your ballot. Your ballot may include local, state, and federal races, as well as ballot questions. Recent changes to Tennessee’s congressional districts may also affect which U.S. House race appears on your ballot. You can learn more about these changes in our blog, Understanding Tennessee’s Recent Special Session.

Here are some of the offices and questions you may see on your ballot:

1. Local Representatives: Some voters will elect “municipal officials,” such as city mayors, commissioners, or other local officials.

2. State Offices:

• Governor of Tennessee
• Tennessee State Senate: Seats in odd-numbered districts only. [Find your district here.]
• Tennessee House of Representatives: All 99 seats are on the ballot, with the specific race depending on your district.

3. Federal Offices:

• U.S. Senate
• U.S. House of Representatives: Your congressional district may have changed. [Find your district here.]

4. Ballot Questions or Constitutional Amendments: Proposed constitutional amendments and other ballot measures are separate from choosing candidates. Be sure to review these questions before you vote so you know what will be on your ballot.

One way to prepare for voting is to review a sample ballot before Election Day. A sample ballot shows the candidates and questions you may see when you vote. You may receive one in the mail, or you can find one on your county election commission’s website. 

As you review your sample ballot, take time to research the candidates and issues. Websites like Vote411.org offer nonpartisan information to help voters learn about the people running for office. 

A helpful tip is to mark your choices on your sample ballot before you leave home. You can bring it with you and use it as a guide while voting. This can help you remember the choices you researched and make voting easier, especially if your ballot has many races or questions. 

Absentee Voting 101

In Tennessee, some voters can vote by mail using an absentee ballot. You must meet certain requirements to qualify. These include being 60 or older, having a disability that makes your polling place inaccessible, being unable to vote in person because of an illness or physical disability, or meeting other eligibility requirements.

If you qualify, you must request an absentee ballot from your county election commission. Be sure to request your ballot before the deadline and follow the instructions for completing and returning it. Your completed ballot must arrive at your county election commission by the close of polls on Election Day. You cannot drop off your absentee ballot in person.

Visit the Tennessee Secretary of State’s absentee voting page to learn about eligibility, how to request a ballot, and important deadlines.

What Happens at the Polling Place?

When you arrive at your polling place, a poll worker will help you check in. You will need to show an acceptable photo ID and sign a ballot application. Tennessee accepts several types of photo ID, including a Tennessee driver license or photo ID and certain other state or federal photo IDs. You can find a full list of accepted IDs on the Tennessee Secretary of State’s website.

Poll workers will check your information and tell you what to do next.

Depending on your county, election workers may use a computer or a paper list to check you in.

After check-in, an election worker or machine technician will direct you to a voting machine and make sure it is ready. The equipment may look different depending on your county, but you will be able to make your choices in private.

If you need help at any point, ask a poll worker. You may also bring someone you trust to help you vote. If you need help marking your ballot, you can ask for assistance. You still get to make your own choices.

Need Help? Speak Up

Everyone has the right to vote, including people with disabilities. 

If you have trouble entering your polling place, using the voting equipment, or getting the help you need, tell a poll worker right away. Explain the problem and ask for help. Many issues can be resolved at the polling place. 

If the problem is not fixed, you can contact your local election commission. You can also reach out to Disability Rights Tennessee for information about your voting rights and help with accessibility problems. 

You should not have to give up your right to vote because of an accessibility barrier. 

Your Vote Matters! 

Voting does not have to be complicated. Checking your registration, finding your polling place, and reviewing your sample ballot can help you get ready for Election Day. 

Before November 3, make a plan for when and how you will vote. Think about whether you will need help or have questions about access at your polling place. 

Your vote is your choice. Take time to prepare and get ready to vote on November 3, 2026.