What elections are happening in 2023?
Local government offices, such as mayor and councilperson, will be up for election in 2023. These local government positions control local tax rates and make decisions about public services in your city, town, or village.
In 2023, there are four municipal election dates in North Carolina:
- Tuesday, March 7 (Town of Dobson voters only)
- Tuesday, September 12 (Charlotte, Sanford, if necessary)
- Tuesday, October 10 (various municipalities)
- Tuesday, November 7 (various municipalities)
CLICK HERE to get information on your local elections.
When is the voter registration deadline?
The voter registration deadline is 25 days before Election Day. However, individuals who miss the registration deadline may register or update their information at an early voting site during the early voting period. NOTE: Not all municipalities have early voting. To complete same-day registration, you must provide one of the following documents:
- North Carolina driver’s license
- Other government-issued photo ID
- A copy of a current utility bill, bank statement, government check, paycheck, or other government document showing the voter’s name and address
- A current college or university photo ID and proof of campus housing
CLICK HERE to check your voter registration status.
How can I vote by mail?
People can vote by mail by requesting an absentee ballot. NOTE: Not all municipalities allow people to vote by mail. CLICK HERE for more information on voting by mail.
How do I vote early in person?
Early voting may be available for some municipality elections.
How do I vote on election day?
Polling places will be open from 6:30am to 7:30pm on election day. Any voter in line by 7:30pm will be able to vote. Click here to find your polling place.
Voter intimidation is prohibited by law in North Carolina. If you feel harassed or intimidated, you should notify an election official.
Will I be required to show an ID to vote?
No. In North Carolina, you will not be required to show an ID to vote in the 2023 elections.
What COVID-19 precautions will be in place for in person voting?
Safety procedures include:
- Encouraging voters, observers, and electioneers to wear a mask when indoors and maintaining physical distancing.
- Providing disposable masks and hand sanitizer for use in the voting place.
- Cleaning surfaces at least once a day, prioritizing those that are high touch.
- Increasing air filtration and using fans to provide for increased air circulation to help reduce the concentration of viral particles in the air.
- Posting signs, posters, and flyers at main entrances and in key areas throughout the voting location to promote behaviors that prevent the spread of COVID-19.
What procedures are in place for voters with disabilities?
All polling places and voting equipment must be accessible to voters with disabilities. Any voter who qualifies for assistance may request permission for help from the chief of judge when arriving at the polling place. The eligible may choose anyone to serve as their assistant, except for their employer or union representative.
A voter qualifies for assistance if they meet the following criteria:
- Because of physical disability, they are unable to enter the voting booth and/or mark the ballot without help
- Because of illiteracy, they are unable to mark a ballot without help
- Because of blindness, they are unable to enter the voting booth or mark a ballot without help
Other procedures include:
- Curbside voting. This ballot can be completed in the voter’s car or at a walk-up area outside the building.
- Multipartisan Assistance Team. This group is available to provide assistance with mail-in voting and other services to voters living at facilities (hospitals, clinics, nursing homes).
What should I do if my rights are being violated?
If you have a question, complaint, or concern about voting, call 888-OUR-VOTE. For any language besides English, click here to find the number.
Other Helpful Resources
Click here for information about provisional voting
Click here for information about voting in honor of a veteran
Last updated 1/31/2023
