MINNEAPOLIS — Minnesota's primary election is still a few months away, but voters who want to skip the crowds on Election Day (Tuesday, Aug. 13) can start casting their ballot early, beginning Friday.
Early voting is possible in person at select locations, and by mail, for the 2024 primaries from Friday, June 28 through Monday, August 12.
You won't see presidential candidates on this ballot; this contest is to determine which other elected officials will appear on your ballot this November.
How to register
To vote in Minnesota, you need to meet a few simple criteria. Voters must:
- Be a U.S. Citizen
- Be at least 18 years old on election day
- Have lived in Minnesota for at least 20 days
- Not currently in prison for a felony conviction
- Not under a court order revoking the right to vote
When and where to vote early in person
- Locations will be closed on July 4 (Thu) for Independence Day.
- Locations will also be open 9:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m. on August 10 (Sat).
- Locations will also be open until 5:00 p.m. on August 12 (Mon).
How to vote early by mail
You don't have to be registered to request an absentee ballot mailed to you, but to ensure your ballot is counted, follow these guidelines from the Minnesota Secretary of State:
- Read the instructions that come with your ballot carefully.
- You will need a witness when you vote and complete your ballot. The witness can be either a registered Minnesota voter or a notary.
- Return the ballot and forms right away after you finish. Your ballot will not count if it is received after Election Day.
There are many different ways for voters to turn in their absentee ballots before Election Day:
- By mail using the supplied stamped envelope
- Drop off at the elections office that sent the ballot during business hours
- Deposit anytime in a secure drop box
On election day, absentee ballots may be returned no later than 8 p.m. to the elections office or secure drop box. Ballots for cities and towns that vote by mail may be returned to the county elections office or secure drop box no later than 8 p.m.
What's on my ballot?
Depending on where you live, you'll likely see a combination of one or all of these races on your general election primary ballot:
- U.S. Senator
- U.S. Representative
- State Representative
- Judicial seats
Voters may also have one or more of these races on their ballot:
- City Officers
- School Board Members
- Township Officers
- Special Elections
You can also check out this spreadsheet from the Secretary of State's Office to learn more about ballot questions and special elections happening in communities throughout Minnesota this year:
Watch more Minnesota politics:
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