Early Voting Set to Begin on October 20 for Municipal Election Day

Early Voting Set to Begin on October 20 for Municipal Election Day

COLUMBIA, S.C. (October 16, 2025) - The South Carolina State Election Commission (SEC) reminds voters that the early voting period for Municipal Election Day is quickly approaching. Voters don't have to wait until November 4 to have their voices heard; early voting starts next week.

"Early voting is an increasingly important part of SCVotes' mission to enhance voter accessibility," Interim Director Jenny Wooten said. "Building confidence and trust in early voting is another way we're making sure every vote matters and every vote counts." "With early voting right around the corner, now is the time to check your registration, know your voting location, and review the sample ballot for your precinct," Wooten added. "Make a plan today to make your voice heard - and your vote count."

Not every voter will have an election. Only those who are registered within a municipality holding an election are eligible to vote. Voters can visit our Municipal Election Day page or contact their county voter registration office to confirm whether their municipality has an election.

Vote Early: In Person

Visit an early voting center during the early voting period and vote just like you would at your polling place on Election Day.

• Dates and times: 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., Monday, October 20 - Friday, October 31 (closed Saturday and Sunday).
• Locations: Visit the early voting page on scVOTES.gov or contact your county voter registration office.
• Voters will be asked to present their Photo ID when checking in to vote. Acceptable Photo IDs include an S.C. Driver's License, S.C. DMV ID Card, S.C. Voter Registration Card with Photo, a Federal Military ID, or a U.S. Passport.

Vote Absentee: By Mail

Qualified voters, such as those with a physical disability or those age 65 and older, may vote absentee by mail.

• Request and return your absentee application from your county voter registration office as soon as possible.
• The deadline to return the absentee application is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, October 31.
• Absentee ballots must be returned no later than 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, November 4.
• Visit the absentee voting page on scVOTES.gov to find a full list of qualifying reasons and step-by-step instructions for voting absentee.

Make Your Plan to Vote Today

• Find a copy of your sample ballot, voting locations, and more election information by visiting scVOTES.gov or by contacting your county voter registration office.
• Download our Go-To Guides, FAQs, and visit our Municipal Election Day page.
• Stay connected with us on Facebook, Instagram, and X.