As we continue to navigate the new normal during the COVID-19 pandemic, we also need to be aware that voting in the general election will feel a bit different this year.
We want to ensure everyone is prepared and ready for Election Day on Tuesday, November 3—here are some key steps to take to get ready to vote.
Before you leave to vote
Check your voter registration status.
- Confirm that you can vote in Philadelphia for the election.
- This election, we’re opening more than three and a half times as many polling places than were available in the primary. That means nearly 85 percent of voters will be voting in a familiar polling place, but make sure to look up your polling place location ahead of time!
Bring a mask or face covering.
- Masks will be strongly encouraged. Voters who don’t have a mask will be provided with one.
Make sure you allow yourself plenty of time to vote.
- Polls are open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. If you are in line by 8 p.m., you must be allowed to vote.
Make a travel plan.
- To help ensure social distancing guidelines, make a plan to get to the polls safely. You can also explore options like Indego, the City’s bike share program.
At the Polls
When you’re at your polling place, please follow social distancing guidelines. Stay six feet away from everyone and wear a mask or face covering.
Hand sanitizer will be available, and voters will be provided a plastic glove to prevent shared transmission by pens or touch screens.
The voting machines are accessible, and accommodations can be made if people need additional assistance. Poll workers at your voting location can also help you if you have any questions or need help.
Want more information about how to use the voting machine? We have a guide for that.
Due to COVID-19 health guidelines, voting may take a little longer this year. Please be prepared to wait in a line outside, be patient, and give those around you at least 6 feet of space.
Mail-in ballots
If you would like to request a mail-in ballot, you must do so by Tuesday, October 27.
If you received a mail-in ballot this year, you should mail your ballot as promptly as possible by Election Day or personally deliver it to the County Board of Elections office, at a ballot drop box, or at a satellite election office no later than 8 p.m. on Election Day. You cannot deliver your voted mail-in ballot to your polling place. View a map of ballot drop off locations here.
If you requested a mail-in ballot but decide to vote in-person at your polling place on November 3, then you must bring your mail-in ballot with you. You will need to surrender your mail-in ballot by giving it to one of the poll workers. You will need to bring the ballot and the declaration envelope. If you do not have your mail-in ballot, you will be able to vote by provisional ballot.
Report Election Concerns
You have rights as a voter.
It is illegal for any state or local government to discriminate against anyone by denying them the right to vote based on their:
- Race
- Ethnicity
- National origin, or
- Membership in a language minority.
Your right to vote can only be challenged if a poll worker, poll watcher, or another voter says you do not live in the precinct or are not who you say you are.
It is illegal for any person or corporation to intimidate or coerce you to vote for or against a particular candidate or political issue. Learn more about voter rights.
To report any election concerns (such as intimidation, interference, illegal voting, or unlawful electioneering), please contact the District Attorney’s Election Task Force at 215-686-9641.
