CALIFORNIA

Election Information

Upcoming Elections

2008 Statewide Direct Primary Election: 6/3/08

2008 General Election: 11/4/08

Voter Registration Information

The Lawyers’ Committee and its pro bono law firm partners have compiled comprehensive third-party voter registration guides for all 50 states and the District of Columbia.  These guides will help volunteers, organizers, and leaders navigate the complex rules that govern voter registration in each state. 

Registration Deadlines

15 days before an election

Specific Deadlines:

  • 2008 Statewide Direct Primary Election: 5/19/08
  • 2008 General Election: 10/20/08

Where to Obtain Registration Forms

Absentee Voting

Absentee voting is allowed if voter is:

  • Registered in CA
  • A member of the Armed Forces or a spouse or dependent of a member of the Armed forces
  • A U.S. citizen living overseas who will be at least 18 years of age before the next General Election and whose last residence prior to going overseas was in CA

Rules and deadlines

  • Absentee ballots can be found with the county elections office and must be requested by mail at least seven days before an election.
  • Ballots must be returned to the county elections office by mail or in person.
  • Voters may apply for a ballot through an authorized and legally allowable third party, who may also deliver the ballot to the election office by 8 pm on Election Day.
  • Ballot must be received by 8 pm on Election Day.
  • Absentee voters must submit with their ballot one of the following documents:
    • Copy of a current and valid photo identification or
    • Current utility bill,
    • Bank statement,
    • Government check,
    • Paycheck,
    • Other government document that shows the name and address of the voter.

Early Voting

Yes, for all registered voters starting 29 days before the election.

Identification Requirements

At registration:

  • Copy of a current and valid photo identification or
  • Current utility bill,
  • Bank statement,
  • Government check,
  • Paycheck,
  • Other government document that shows the name and address of the voter.

At polls, voter required to present ID if ID was not provided with voter registration

How to check registration

Contact your County Elections Official

How to find polling place

Polling place location will be printed on the Sample Ballot

Information for felons

Voter is eligible to register upon completion of the sentence, including probation and parole.


For more information, go to the Secretary of State’s website.