Tennessee

Voting Guide.

Tennessee requires photo ID at the polls and registration 30 days before Election Day. Early voting runs from 20 days through 5 days before Election Day.

Last verified · June 15, 2026

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Key details for your state.

Registration deadline
30 days before Election Day.
Early voting
Early voting begins 20 days before Election Day and ends 5 days before.
Absentee / mail-in
Request must be received by 7 days before Election Day (excuse required). Ballot must be received by Election Day.
ID requirements
Photo ID required — must be issued by Tennessee or the federal government (TN DL/ID, US passport, military ID, or photo handgun carry permit).
Election Day hours
Polls open at least 10 hours, generally 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM Central or 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM Eastern.

Extra info:

  • Tennessee accepts only state-issued or federal photo ID — student or out-of-state IDs are NOT accepted.
  • Absentee voting by mail requires a qualifying excuse such as being 60+, out of county, or disabled.
  • Without ID, cast a provisional ballot and bring ID to the election commission within 2 business days.

All information on this page comes from the Tennessee Secretary of State's official election website. Confirm details there before voting:

https://sos.tn.gov/elections ↗