6–12 months before Election Day
Candidate Filing
Candidates officially declare their intention to run for office by submitting required paperwork and fees to the appropriate election authority.
The Election Process
From candidate filing to final certification — here's how every election works, step by step.
15–30 days before Election Day
Voter Registration
Eligible citizens register to vote by submitting their information to election authorities. Many jurisdictions allow online, mail, or in-person registration.
1–4 weeks before Election Day
Early & Mail-In Voting
Many jurisdictions provide options to vote before Election Day — either by dropping off a mail ballot or voting at an early voting center.
Election Day
Election Day
The primary day for in-person voting. Polls are open for a set window (commonly 6 AM – 8 PM). Voters in line before closing must be allowed to vote.
Election Night → several weeks after
Vote Counting & Tabulation
Election officials count all ballots — in-person, early, and mail-in. Provisional ballots are verified separately. Results are preliminary until certification.
2–6 weeks after Election Day
Certification & Transition
Official election results are certified by the state or local election authority. Winners are declared and the transition of power or duties begins.