Understanding election schedules is crucial, especially when participating in Washington State elections. Washington State operates on Pacific Time (PT), which includes Pacific Standard Time (PST) during standard time and Pacific Daylight Time (PDT) during daylight saving time. Knowing the correct time is essential for meeting voter registration and ballot deadlines. Here’s a breakdown of important election dates to keep in mind.
For Special Elections, voters should note the following timeline:
- Approximately 18 days before Election Day: The voting period begins, ballots are mailed out, and Accessible Voting Units (AVUs) become available at voting centers.
- 8 days before Election Day: Deadline for online and mail voter registrations to be received. In-person registration is available during business hours and until 8:00 p.m. on Election Day.
- Election Day (February 11 & April 22 for examples given): This is the final day to register to vote in person (deadline is 8:00 p.m.) and the deadline to deposit your ballot in an official drop box by 8 p.m. Pacific Time.
Primary elections follow a similar schedule:
- 18 days before Primary Election Day: Start of the voting period, with ballots mailed and AVUs available.
- 8 days before Primary Election Day: Online and mail registration deadline. In-person registration is open until 8:00 p.m. on Election Day.
- Primary Election Day (August 5 for example): In-person voter registration or updates must be completed by today (8:00 p.m. PT). Ballots must be deposited in an official drop box by 8 p.m. Pacific Time.
For the General Election:
- 18 days before General Election Day: Voting period commences, ballots are mailed, and AVUs are ready at voting centers.
- 8 days before General Election Day: Deadline for online and mail voter registrations. In-person registration possible until 8:00 p.m. on Election Day.
- General Election Day (November 4 for example): Final day for in-person voter registration or updates (8:00 p.m. PT). Ballots must be in official drop boxes by 8 p.m. Pacific Time.
It’s important to remember that all deadlines are based on Pacific Time. Whether you are checking registration deadlines or ensuring your ballot is submitted on time, knowing “What Time Is It In Washington State” is more than just knowing the hour; it’s about participating effectively in the electoral process.
For a complete overview, you can view the full elections calendar.
If you have further questions, please call 1-800-448-4881, available Monday-Friday, 8 AM – 5 PM Pacific Time, or send an email to [email protected].
