When does early voting start in nc 2026

As of 19 October 2026, North Carolina is preparing for the upcoming general election, with early voting scheduled to begin on Thursday, 22 October 2026. According to the North Carolina State Board of Elections, this period allows registered voters to cast their ballots in person before Election Day, which falls on 3 November 2026. The early voting window will remain open for 17 days, concluding on Saturday, 31 October 2026. During this time, voters have the flexibility to visit any designated one-stop early voting site within their county of residence, regardless of their specific precinct assignment. Election officials emphasize that this period is critical for managing voter turnout and reducing potential congestion at polling places on the final day of voting. Residents are encouraged to verify their registration status and review the specific operating hours for their local sites, as schedules may vary by county. This early voting initiative is a cornerstone of the state's electoral process, designed to maximize accessibility and ensure that all eligible citizens have the opportunity to participate in the democratic process.