Election Day in Iowa and across the country is Tuesday, November 3, 2026, but if you’re planning to vote in the election, which includes high-profile races for the United States Senate and the United States House of Representatives, there are a lot of other important dates to keep in mind.
Here’s your calendar of key dates in Iowa’s 2026 midterm elections:
TUESDAY, AUGUST 25: This is the first day you can request a mail-in absentee ballot for the 2026 State General Election online. Iowa Starting Line’s online portal can help you get started.
MONDAY, OCTOBER 19: This is your last day to pre-register to vote in the general election. You can register online using Iowa Starting Line’s voter registration tool before 11:59 p.m. Election Day registration is still available beyond this date.
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 14-MONDAY, NOVEMBER 2: Qualifying voters can vote early in-person. Exact dates and locations vary by county.
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 3: This is the last day to vote in Iowa’s midterm elections. Polls are open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. local time. Mailed absentee ballots must be received by 8 p.m. to be counted.
Need help getting ready to vote? Use our online portal below to see what’s on your ballot, find your polling place, and register to vote.
