Don’t let others decide this election for you!
Get ready
On September 14, California will hold a special election to decide whether the governor will be replaced. Here’s how to make your vote count.
Check if you’re registered!
New voter? If you missed the August 30 registration deadline, you can still register at your polling place the same day you vote.
Learn about same day registration
Already registered? If you’ve moved or returned home from school during the pandemic, you may need to update your address. Remember, only voters registered in California can participate in the recall election.
What’s on the ballot
This election is a little different. Learn about what's on the ballot.
Go vote
By mail
Every registered California voter should have received a vote-by-mail ballot. There are several ways to submit your completed ballot:
- Mail your ballot no later than September 14. Postage is free. Ballots must be postmarked by Election Day and received at the county elections office within seven days of the election.
- Drop it off at an official mail-ballot drop box by 8 p.m. on Election Day. Find a drop location near you.
- Drop it off at any polling place before the polls close at 8 p.m. Find a polling place near you.
Tips
- Sign the ballot envelope before you send it back.
- Track your ballot. Get alerts when your ballot has been mailed, received and counted.
- Lost or never got a vote-by-mail ballot? In-person voting locations will offer replacement ballots.
In person
You can also vote in person at the polls on September 14 — or even earlier.
- Vote early! At least one early voting location will be available in every county. Learn about early voting near you.
- Check your assigned polling place. If you plan to vote in person, make sure your polling place is somewhere you can get to on Election Day.
- Vote on Election Day, September 14. The polls are open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.
- Vote conditionally if need be. If you missed the August 30 registration deadline or go to the wrong polling place, you can still vote conditionally. Your ballot will count like any other once officials determine your eligibility to vote.
Tips
- Get to your polling location before 8 p.m.
- Wear a mask and maintain social distance.
- Most voters don’t need ID. Check here to see if you will need your I D at the polling place.
Key dates
August 16, 2021 Mail-in ballots mailed to CA voters
August 30, 2021 Online voter registration deadline
September 4, 2021 Conditional (same day) registration begins
September 11, 2021 Additional early voting centers open
September 14, 2021 Recall Election
Got questions?
Call California’s toll-free voter hotline:
(800) 345-VOTE
