We’re a month away from Pennsylvania’s primary election, when voters will decide who will appear on November’s ballot, including candidates for key positions like the Third Congressional District seat.
Before casting your vote on May 19, make a plan. Here are the important deadlines to remember as Election Day approaches.
Register To Vote
The deadline to register to vote or update your registration before the primary is Monday, May 4. You can confirm your registration by using this tool, calling 1-877-VOTESPA, or reaching the Philadelphia County Voter Registration office at 215-686-1590.
If you’re not registered to vote, complete an application online. You can also register in person at 520 N. Columbus Blvd. 5th floor (Voter Registration Office), City Hall Room 402 (Philadelphia County Board of Elections), or a satellite election office.
If you prefer to use mail, print an application online or grab one at the post office, the Free Library of Philadelphia, state liquor stores, or certain government offices. Applications are available in multiple languages.
You’ll need to update your registration if you have moved or changed your name since the last time you voted.
See if you’re eligible to vote by checking the requirements here.
Pick a Party
The May 4 deadline is also your last chance to update your party affiliation before the election. Pennsylvania is a closed primary state, meaning that you can only vote for candidates in the same political party as you, Democrat or Republican. Independent or nonaffiliated voters cannot vote for a candidate during this election, but you can vote on the local ballot questions. These voters can fully participate in November's general election.
Request a Ballot
If you cannot physically make it to the polls, you can request either an absentee ballot or a mail-in ballot by May 12. The Philadelphia County Board of Elections must receive your application by 5 p.m.
An absentee ballot can be requested by people who will be away from the city on Election Day or are in the military. In the case of an emergency, last-minute absentee ballots can be requested. Mail-in ballots are available to all eligible voters. You can also decide if you want a one-time mail-in ballot or apply to be an annual mail-in voter.
Vote on Election Day
Tuesday, May 19, is Election Day. The county election board must receive your mail-in ballot or civilian absentee ballot on this day by 8 p.m.
If you are voting in person, polls are open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Find your polling place here.
