Lake County Board — District 1
Election Day: November 3, 2026 — Polls Open 6 AM to 7 PM
Three ways to cast your ballot: vote by mail, vote early, or vote on Election Day. Here's everything you need to know.
You must be registered to vote before you can cast a ballot. Already registered? Verify your status here.
Not registered yet? You can register online, by mail, or in person at the Lake County Clerk's Office (18 N. County Street, Waukegan). You must be at least 18 years old and have lived in your precinct for at least 30 days.
Missed the deadline? Grace Period Registration runs October 7 through Election Day at any early voting site and at the Clerk's Office. You'll need two forms of ID (one with your current address) and must vote at the time of registration.
Register OnlineOnline registration closes at 11:59 PM on October 18. Mail applications must be postmarked by October 6.
September 24
Early Voting & Vote-by-Mail Begin
Early voting opens at the Clerk's Office. Mail ballots begin shipping to approved applicants.
October 6
Mail & In-Person Registration Deadline
Last day to register by mail (must be postmarked) or in person at the Clerk's Office.
October 7
Grace Period Registration Opens
Register and vote at the same time at any early voting site or the Clerk's Office. Two forms of ID required.
October 18
Online Registration Deadline
Last day to register at ova.elections.il.gov. System closes at 11:59 PM.
October 19
County-Wide Early Voting Opens
Early voting expands to designated locations across Lake County.
October 29
Vote-by-Mail Application Deadline
Applications must be received by the Clerk's Office by 5:00 PM.
November 2
Last Day of Early Voting
Final day to vote early at any Lake County early voting location.
November 3
Election Day
Polls open 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Vote at any polling location in Lake County.
If you're already registered with your current name and address, no ID is required. Your identity is verified by matching your signature on file.
For Grace Period or same-day registration, bring two forms of identification, one showing your current address (utility bill, bank statement, lease, etc.).
Lake County Clerk's Office
18 N. County Street, Waukegan, IL
Phone: 847-377-2400
Use Voter Power to access your personalized voter info: sample ballot, polling place, and registration status.
Get updates on voting deadlines, campaign events, and ways to support Jose.