Close-up of a hand filling out a voter registration form with a pen. The U.S. flag is partially visible, symbolizing civic duty and patriotism.

How to Vote

White "Vote Here" sign outside a DeKalb County polling location with an American flag on it.

DeKalb County offers several convenient voting options to help residents cast their ballots in the way that works best for them.

Whether you choose to vote on Election Day, vote early in person, or submit an absentee ballot by mail, each method is designed to ensure accessibility, security, and a smooth voting experience. This section provides an overview of available voting methods, along with the steps, deadlines, and resources you need to participate with confidence.

Election Day Voting

Required ID (bring one):

  • Georgia driver's license (even if expired)
  • Valid state or federal government-issued photo ID
  • Valid U.S. passport
  • Valid U.S. military ID with photo
  • Valid tribal ID with photo
  • Employee ID from government entity
  • Student ID from Georgia public college/university

Free Voter ID Card:Available at our office if you don't have an acceptable photo ID.

Early Voting

Vote at any DeKalb County early voting location during the early voting period (typically 3 weeks before Election Day).

Standard Hours:

  • Weekdays: 7:00 AM-7:00 PM
  • Saturdays: 9:00 AM-6:00 PM
  • Sundays: 12:00 PM-6:00 PM
Black mail box with a red flag up and an "I Voted" sticker that is red, white, and blue. It is in a neighborhood by the street and there are fall colored trees.
Absentee/Mail-in Voting

How to Request:

  1. Complete official absentee ballot application  (online or download PDF)
  2. Provide Georgia driver's license/ID number or copy of valid ID
  3. Submit by email: absenteeballot@dekalbcountyga.gov, fax: 404-298-4038, or mail to our office

Important Deadlines:

  • Application deadline: 11 days before election
  • Ballot return deadline: 7:00 PM on Election Day

Automatic Absentee: Voters 65+ or with disabilities may opt to automatically receive ballots for all elections in a year.

Polling Locations

Election Day Hours: 7:00 AM-7:00 PM  (if in line by 7:00 PM, you can still vote)

Accessibility & Assistance

Priority Access: Voters with physical disabilities or 75+ years old don't need to wait in line – go directly to poll worker for assistance.

Voting Assistance: Available for voters with disabilities, age-related needs, or reading difficulties.

Language Support: Materials available in Spanish, Korean, and Amharic.

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