What to know about Early Voting

HOUSTON – Early voting in Harris County begins Monday and ends Nov. 3. There will be 45 early voting locations across the county. 

One of the big differences between early voting and voting on Election Day is the location of polling places. During the early-voting period, voters can go to any polling place. However, on Election Day, in Harris County, voters must go to the polling place of the precinct where you are registered to vote. Other counties use voting centers, and allow people to cast their ballot at any center.

Several early voting locations have changed as a result of Hurricane Harvey.

“Locations hit hardest by flooding such as those running along Cypress Creek and those located near the Addicks and Barker reservoirs have seen changes to several of their early voting locations,” Harris County Clerk Stan Stanart said.

It is important to know your options and the nearby polling locations before heading out to cast your vote. 

Registered voters who were displaced by Harvey are encouraged to participate in early voting.

“The impact of Hurricane Harvey to South Texas has been huge, and while we are recovering, please realize that government needs your participation in this election,” Stanart said. "The pulling together of neighbors helping neighbors has been truly inspiring.  Please join your neighbors as we meet at your neighborhood early voting location.” 

To find polling locations for early voting and Election Day, view a personal sample ballot or review the list of acceptable forms of identification to vote at the poll, voters may visit www.HarrisVotes.com or call the Harris County Clerk’s office at 713-755-6965.

Helpful links for Election Day:

Forms of required voter identification:

  • Texas driver license
  • Texas personal ID card issued by DPS
  • Texas Election Identification Certificate issued by DPS
  • U. S. military identification card containing the person's photograph
  • Texas license to carry a handgun issued by DPS
  • United States passport
  • United States citizenship certificate containing the person's photograph

If you do not possess or cannot obtain one of the above forms of identification, then you can fill out a declaration at the polls explaining why and bring one of the following supporting documents:

  • Valid Voter Registration Certificate
  • Certified Birth Certificate (must be an original)
  • Copy of or original Bank Statement
  • Copy of or original Government check or paycheck
  • Copy of or original current Utility Bill
  • Copy of or original government document with your name and an address (original required if it contains a photograph)

Click here for approved forms of voter ID.

Click here for a sample ballot for Harris County.

The League of Women Voters has also compiled a guide for voters which you can view here.

More helpful links:

Fort Bend County voting information

Montgomery County voting information

Galveston County voting information

Brazoria County voting information

Chambers County voting information

Liberty County voting information

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