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You don’t have to vote in a primary to vote in a general election So, if you missed the chance to vote in the 2026 California primary on Tuesday, the California Secretary of State’s office has a list of deadlines leading up to the November general election.
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All registered voters can vote in a primary or a general election, but voting in the primary is not a prerequisite to casting your ballot in November.
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When is the general election and what deadlines do I have to meet before then?
- Voters can check their status at My Voter Status to confirm their mailing address and voting status starting Aug. 27.
- The state’s official Voter Information Guide will be made available online beginning Sept. 4.
- County elections officials will begin mailing ballots by October 5.
- Secure ballot drop-off locations open on October 6
- The last day to register to vote for the general election is October 19.
- The first vote centers open for early in-person voting in all Voter’s Choice Act counties on October 24.
- In person early voting locations throughout California will be open on Saturday, October 31.
- November 3 is the last day to vote in-person or return a ballot by 8:00 p.m.
- Vote-by-mail ballots must be postmarked no later than November 3.