Know Before You Go to the Polls
Your guide to Mississippi’s November 3, 2026, General Election
Your vote belongs to you. Before you head to the polls, take a few minutes to check your information and make a plan. Knowing where to go, what to bring and who to ask for help can make the day easier.
Black Mississippians deserve clear, accurate information about exercising their right to vote. The Mississippi Legislative Black Caucus wants you to arrive prepared and confident.
Here is what to know.
Confirm your registration and polling place
Check your voter registration through the Secretary of State’s verification tool. Then use My Election Day to find your polling location and sample ballot. The portal recommends confirming your polling place with your county circuit clerk. If you have moved or something looks wrong, contact the clerk now to confirm where you should vote.
Bring an accepted photo ID
Accepted options include a valid Mississippi driver’s license, a valid U.S. passport, an official Mississippi Voter Identification Card, and a current, valid student photo ID from an accredited Mississippi college, university, community college or junior college. Check the official list if you are unsure about your ID.
Eligible voters without an accepted photo ID can get a free Mississippi Voter Identification Card through a circuit clerk’s office. Call 1-844-678-6837 for help. Your voter registration card alone does not replace the photo ID requirement.
Set your voting time and arrange your ride
Election Day is Tuesday, November 3. Polls are open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Central Time. If you are in line at 7 p.m., stay in line. You are entitled to vote.
Choose when you will go and arrange transportation in advance. Check with anyone planning to ride with you so everyone knows the time and location.
Know what to expect with your paper ballot
After you sign the receipt book, the designated poll manager initials the back of your blank paper ballot before issuing it to you. The initials are checked again before your completed ballot goes into the ballot box or scanner. This is part of Mississippi’s official voting process. A text claiming those required initials invalidate your ballot is misinformation.
Ask questions if you need help
If your name is missing, ask a poll manager to verify your precinct and explain the affidavit ballot process. An affidavit ballot requires officials to review your eligibility before it can be counted. Ask how to check its status.
If you lack an accepted photo ID, ask for an affidavit ballot. You then have five business days after Election Day to present accepted ID or apply for a Mississippi Voter ID Card at your circuit clerk’s office. Ask for the follow-up instructions before leaving.
Voters with a physical disability who cannot enter the polling place may vote curbside.
Contact your circuit clerk before Election Day to plan for assistance. For election questions, call 1-800-829-6786.
Eligible for absentee voting
The in-person absentee deadline is noon Saturday, October 31. Circuit clerk offices will be open that day from 8 a.m. to noon. Mississippi absentee voting requires a qualifying reason; contact your clerk to confirm eligibility. If you are returning a mailed absentee ballot, confirm the postmark, receipt and return requirements directly with your clerk now.
Share information people can use
Faith leaders, families and community groups can share this checklist, help someone find official information and encourage people to ask questions. Before forwarding a voting message, check it against an official source. Our communities deserve information they can trust.
Go prepared. Know your rights. Make your voice heard.
Official resources
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