What to Know About Voting in Chicago

Early voting for the Nov. 5 general election begins in Chicago this week, so we’re sharing what you need to know before you submit your ballot.

How to Register

Voters with Illinois driver’s licenses and IDs can change their names and addresses online. Online registration closes Oct. 20. Voters can also register at early voting sites with two forms of ID, one of which should have your current address. IDs can include passports, credit cards, leases, bills, transcripts, and more.

Where to Vote

Chicago has two sites in the Loop that open Thursday. But if you don’t want to trek downtown, early voting in wards opens Oct. 21. You can vote at any site no matter where you live.

Long lines not your speed? Register to vote by mail by Oct. 31, and make sure your mail-in ballot is postmarked on or before Election Day. You can also drop off your ballot at a secure drop box. If you really like voting by mail, join the permanent roster.

What’s on the Ballot?

The presidential race is getting a lot of attention, but don’t forget about the rest of your ballot like the races for Chicago’s partially elected school board and Cook County state’s attorney.

Plus, voters will also weigh in on non-binding statewide referenda about IVF, property taxes, and election security.

Over the next few weeks, we’ll dive deeper into those topics. Stay tuned!