What time do polls open on Election Day in the Chicago area? What to know

With just a few days left before Election Day for the 2026 Illinois general election, voters who have yet to cast their ballot may be wondering what time polling places will open their doors on the big day. Though early voting has been open for weeks, many wait until Election Day itself, set for Tuesday, Nov. 3, to mark their support for their preferred candidates. Under Illinois state law, polls open at 6 a.m. on Election Day, and will remain open until 7 p.m. If you can t get to the polls until the later evening and you re stuck in line when the clock strikes 7 p.m., you ll still be able to vote. Not sure where to go? The Illinois State Board of Elections has a polling place lookup feature on its website. Put in your ZIP code and address and hit submit and the lookup tool will show you your polling place. Chicago residents can vote at their designated polling place or at one of the 51 early voting centers across the city that will remain open through Elec