Vote in Missouri

Make a plan to vote

Missouri voters can participate on Election Day, vote early in person during the no-excuse absentee voting period, or — if they meet one of Missouri’s qualifying reasons — request an absentee ballot by mail. The information below reflects current Missouri rules. Always confirm details with your local election authority or the Missouri Secretary of State before voting.

August 4, 2026 Primary Election

  • Voter registration deadline: July 8, 2026. This deadline has passed as of July 17.

  • No-excuse in-person absentee voting (i.e. early voting): July 21 through August 3, 2026.

  • Deadline to request your mail-in absentee ballot: July 22, 2026, at 5pm.

  • Election Day: August 4, 2026. Polls are open from 6am to 7pm. If you are in line by 7pm, you may vote.

November 3, 2026 General Election

  • Voter registration deadline: October 7, 2026

  • No-excuse in-person absentee voting (i.e. early voting): October 20 through November 2, 2026.

  • Deadline to request your mail-in absentee ballot: October 21, 2026, at 5pm.

  • Election Day: November 3, 2026. Polls are open from 6am to 7pm. If you are in line by 7pm, you may vote.

How do I request a Missouri absentee ballot at MOVote.org?

MOVote.org is a free service provided by Show Me Integrity Education Fund. It helps you prepare an absentee-ballot request and send it to the correct local election authority with the correct details.

  1. Go to MOVote.org on a smartphone, tablet, or touchscreen computer.

  2. Follow the instructions and enter the information requested.

  3. Draw your signature on the screen and submit the request.

  4. Watch for your ballot in the mail. Complete it, have it notarized if Missouri law requires a notary for your situation, and return it early enough to arrive by the legal deadline.

For the August election, request your ballot as soon as possible. MOVote.org will post November options when they are available. If the online application is not yet available for your election, contact your local election authority for the official request form.

Who may vote absentee by mail?

Missouri law requires a qualifying reason for an absentee ballot returned by mail. Reasons include being absent from the jurisdiction on Election Day; incapacity or confinement due to illness or disability, including caring for someone who is incapacitated or confinement due to illness or disability, including caring for someone who is incapacitated or confined; religious belief or practice; employment as an election authority worker, first responder, health-care worker, or law-enforcement officer, incarceration while retaining voter qualifications; and participation in the address-confidentiality program. Special rules apply for some voters, including military and overseas voters. Check the current Secretary of State guidance for the complete rules.

How does early voting work in Missouri?

Missouri calls this no-excuse absentee voting. Beginning on the second Tuesday before an election and ending the day before the election, a registered voter may vote absentee in person without giving a reason. Voting takes place at locations designated by the voter’s local election authority. A voter must present an acceptable photo ID. Contact your local election authority for locations and hours.

Election Day checklist

  • Confirm your registration and polling place.

  • Bring an acceptable photo ID.

  • Review the ballot before you arrive.

  • Allow time to wait in line.

  • Ask an election worker if you need assistance.