Make Your Voting Plan

General Election: Tuesday, November 3, 2026. Polls are open 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.

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Key dates from the California Secretary of State:

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October 5: County elections officials begin mailing ballots on or before this date. Secure ballot drop boxes open by this date.

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October 19: Last day to register to vote. After this deadline, same-day voter registration is available at your county elections office or a voting location, up to and including Election Day.

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October 24: Vote centers open for early in-person voting in Voter's Choice Act counties, which include Santa Cruz County.

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October 31: In-person early voting locations are open throughout California.

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November 3: Election Day. Last day to vote in person or return your ballot by 8 p.m. Ballots returned by mail must be postmarked on or before Election Day.

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Hours and locations vary by county. Confirm the details with your county elections office below.