Why, Where, and How to Vote in Dallas for National and Local Elections

Voting is a critically important civic duty that has an impact on international, local, and state borders. It is your way to get your voice heard and to be able to help your community and its future. We have a real page-turner of a national election happening this year, and while we will all be watching our national elections closely, it is also important to vote in our local elections. Our local elections impact daily life, affecting schools, transportation, housing, and other public services. If you live in Dallas, understanding how and where to vote is essential so you can cast your vote and perform this important civic duty. DCH does not endorse particular candidates or policies beyond housing measures, but our core beliefs are in equality and representation, and we want your voice to be heard. 


Local elections determine who will decide on education, public safety, and infrastructure issues. Local elections include City Council Members, who make decisions on local policies and budget allocations; School Board Members, who influence education policies and school district budgets; County Officials who oversee local law enforcement, public health, and infrastructure projects, and Judges and Prosecutors who play key roles in the local justice system. You might not realize you have the power to influence these areas and help ensure that your community's needs are met.



Step 1: Eligibility 

You will be able to vote in Dallas, your local district, and in the US you must be: 

  • Be a U.S. citizen.

  • Be a resident of the county where you submit the application.

  • Be at least 18 years old on Election Day.

  • Not be convicted of a felony (unless your sentence is completed, including any probation or parole).

  • Not be declared mentally incapacitated without the right to vote by a court.


Step 2: How to Register

  • Online: Visit the Texas Secretary of State's website to fill out the online application form. You’ll need to print, sign, and mail it to your county voter registrar.

  • By Mail: Request a voter registration application from the Dallas County Elections Department, fill it out, and mail it back.

  • In Person: Register at the Dallas County Elections Department or any public library, Department of Public Safety office, or other locations providing voter registration applications.

Step 3: Early Voting and Election Day Voting

Early Voting

  • Early voting allows you to cast your ballot before Election Day, providing more flexibility to fit voting into your schedule. Here’s what you need to know:

  • Dates: Early voting typically starts 17 days before Election Day and ends 4 days before. Here is the election calendar for Dallas. 

  • Locations: There are multiple early voting locations throughout South Dallas. Locations include the Martin Luther King Jr. Community Center and the Dallas County Records Building.

Election Day Voting

On Election Day, you must vote at your assigned polling place. Here’s how to find your location:

  • Voter Registration Card: Your card will list your precinct number, which corresponds to your polling place.

  • Online Lookup: Use the Dallas County Elections Department website to find your polling place by entering your address.

  • Election Day Hotline: Call the Dallas County Elections Department at (214) 819-6300 for assistance.


Do not forget! 

What to Bring: Texas law requires voters to present an approved form of photo identification at the polls. Accepted IDs include:

  • Texas driver’s license issued by the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS)

  • Texas Election Identification Certificate issued by DPS

  • Texas personal identification card issued by DPS

  • Texas handgun license issued by DPS

  • United States military identification card containing the person’s photograph

  • United States citizenship certificate containing the person’s photograph

  • United States passport (book or card)


Do you need assistance? Accessibility and Assistance

Polling locations across Dallas must be accessible to voters with disabilities. If you need assistance:


  • Curbside Voting: Available for voters who cannot physically enter the polling place.

  • Assistance Marking the Ballot: You can bring someone to help you or request assistance from poll workers.

  • Language Assistance: If you need a ballot or assistance in Spanish, resources are available.

Learning about Candidates and What is Being Decided

It is important that you inform yourself and others, if you want to make more impact, and follow news, TV, and radio to learn about candidates and their platforms. Additionally, the Dallas County Elections Department will also have news and updates available.  Understanding the process and your rights as citizens is an important part of civic engagement. Many are more engaged than ever in elections this year to get community voices heard in matters of education, housing, and important social services. Make a plan to vote in every election, not just the national ones. 

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