County boards of elections began sending absentee ballots on Friday, Sept. 4, making North Carolina the first state in the country to begin voting in the 2026 midterm election.

Here are the key dates and information North Carolina voters should know this election cycle.

Key 2026 Election Dates

Oct. 9: Voter Registration Deadline
The deadline to register to vote in the general election is 5 p.m. Friday, Oct. 9. Voters who miss the deadline may still register and vote using same-day registration during the early voting period.

Oct. 15: In-Person Early Voting Begins
Registered voters can vote at any early voting location in the county where they are registered. Same-day registration is also available during this period.

Oct. 20: Absentee Ballot Request Deadline
Voters planning to vote by mail must request an absentee ballot by 5 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 20.

Oct. 31: In-Person Early Voting Ends
Early voting concludes at 3 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 31.

Nov. 3: Election Day
Polls will be open from 6:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Voters casting a ballot on Election Day must vote at their assigned polling place. Completed absentee ballots must also be received by the voter’s county board of elections by 7:30 p.m.

What’s on the Ballot?

North Carolina voters will weigh in on races that will shape representation and policymaking at the federal, state, and local levels. The 2026 ballot includes one U.S. Senate seat, all 14 of North Carolina’s U.S. House seats, all 170 seats in the N.C. General Assembly, one N.C. Supreme Court seat, three N.C. Court of Appeals seats, statewide referenda, and numerous local races. See your sample ballot here.

Make a Plan to Vote

Check Your Registration and Sample Ballot: Voters can use the North Carolina State Board of Elections’ Voter Search tool to confirm their registration, find their Election Day polling place, and view their sample ballot.

Check Your Registration and View Your Sample Ballot

Know the Photo ID Requirements: North Carolina voters will be asked to show a photo ID when voting in person. Voters casting an absentee ballot by mail must include a photocopy of an acceptable ID or complete an ID Exception Form.

As Election Day approaches, the NC Chamber will continue providing updates on the political trends, races, and issues shaping North Carolina’s 2026 election.