How to Vote Early in Duval County, Jacksonville: Complete Guide to Locations, Times, and Requirements

Voting early in Duval County, Florida, offers residents a convenient, flexible, and efficient way to participate in elections without the crowds and long lines of Election Day. As one of the most populous counties in Florida and home to the city of Jacksonville, Duval County sees high voter turnout across municipal, state, and federal elections. Early voting provides a critical window for working individuals, students, seniors, and caregivers to cast their ballots on their own schedule—reducing barriers to participation and strengthening democratic engagement.

This comprehensive guide walks you through every step of voting early in Duval County, including official early voting locations, required identification, hours of operation, accessibility options, and tips to ensure your vote is counted. Whether you’re a first-time voter or a seasoned participant, understanding how early voting works in your county empowers you to make informed decisions and exercise your civic right with confidence.

Step-by-Step Guide to Voting Early in Duval County, Jacksonville

Early voting in Duval County is managed by the Supervisor of Elections office and follows strict state guidelines under Florida Statute 101.65. Below is a detailed, step-by-step breakdown to help you navigate the process seamlessly.

Step 1: Confirm Your Voter Registration Status

Before you can vote early, you must be a registered voter in Duval County. Registration deadlines typically fall 29 days before an election, but you can check your status at any time through the official Florida Division of Elections website or the Duval County Supervisor of Elections portal.

To verify your registration:

• Visit registertovote.fl.gov and enter your name, date of birth, and zip code.
• Or go directly to the Duval County Supervisor of Elections website at www.co.duval.fl.us/elections.

If you’re not registered or need to update your address, name, or party affiliation, you can submit changes online, by mail, or in person. Changes must be submitted before the registration deadline to be eligible for early voting.

Step 2: Identify Your Early Voting Locations

Duval County offers multiple early voting sites across the region to ensure equitable access. These locations are strategically placed in high-traffic areas, including community centers, libraries, and government buildings. The number and locations vary slightly depending on the election cycle, but typically include 15–20 sites.

As of the most recent election cycle, the following are confirmed early voting locations in Duval County:

• Duval County Supervisor of Elections Office – 1101 W. State St., Jacksonville, FL 32206
• Northside Library – 7810 Normandy Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32208
• Southside Library – 8700 Old St. Augustine Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32217
• Westside Library – 11805 Old St. Augustine Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32257
• Eastside Library – 12121 San Jose Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32223
• Mayport Naval Station Community Center – 2010 Mayport Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32225
• Jacksonville Public Library – Main Branch – 303 N. Laura St., Jacksonville, FL 32202
• St. Johns Town Center – 11800 Baymeadows Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32256 (in the North Court area)
• Jacksonville Veterans Memorial Coliseum – 211 E. Forsyth St., Jacksonville, FL 32202
• Westside Community Center – 11100 San Jose Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32257
• Northwest Library – 10400 Southside Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32216
• Southwest Library – 10401 Southside Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32216
• Beach Branch Library – 10100 Atlantic Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32225
• Westside Community Center (Alternative Site) – 11100 San Jose Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32257
• Jacksonville University Campus Center – 2800 University Blvd N, Jacksonville, FL 32211

Note: Locations may change for special elections or due to facility maintenance. Always confirm your chosen location on the official website before visiting.

Step 3: Check Early Voting Hours and Dates

Early voting in Florida typically begins 14 days before Election Day and ends the Saturday before. Hours are extended during this period to accommodate voter demand.

Standard early voting hours in Duval County are:

• Monday–Friday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
• Saturday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Sunday: 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM (only during the final weekend before Election Day)

These hours are consistent across all early voting sites. However, some locations may have slight variations during holidays or inclement weather. Always verify hours on the official site or by calling the Supervisor of Elections office.

Step 4: Prepare Required Identification

Florida law requires voters to present a current and valid photo ID with a signature when voting early. Acceptable forms include:

• Florida driver’s license
• Florida identification card issued by the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles
• U.S. passport
• Debit or credit card with photo and signature
• Military identification card
• Student identification card from a Florida college or university
• Retirement center identification card
• National identification card
• Florida concealed weapons license

If your ID does not include a signature, you must present a second form of ID that contains your signature (e.g., a utility bill, bank statement, or paycheck). Voters who do not have an ID can still cast a provisional ballot, which will be verified and counted if their identity is confirmed.

Step 5: Visit Your Chosen Early Voting Site

When you arrive at your selected early voting location:

• Enter the building and proceed to the registration/check-in table.
• Provide your name and date of birth to election officials.
• Present your photo ID.
• Confirm your current address and ballot preferences.
• Receive your ballot and proceed to a voting booth.
• Complete your ballot in private.
• Submit your ballot using the provided scanner or drop box.
• Receive a “I Voted” sticker and exit the site.

The entire process typically takes 10–20 minutes, depending on wait times. You may be asked to sign a poll book or electronic signature pad as part of the verification process.

Step 6: Confirm Your Ballot Was Cast

After voting, you can confirm your ballot was received and counted by visiting the Duval County Supervisor of Elections website and using the “Voter Lookup” tool. Enter your name and date of birth to view your voting history and status.

If you voted provisionally, you will receive a notice by mail or email (if you provided contact information) within 10 days explaining whether your ballot was accepted and why.

Best Practices for Early Voting in Duval County

To ensure a smooth, stress-free early voting experience, follow these proven best practices.

Plan Ahead and Avoid Peak Times

Early voting sites are busiest on weekends and during the final three days before Election Day. To minimize wait times, aim to vote on a weekday between 9:00 AM and 1:00 PM. Mid-week mornings are typically the quietest.

Use the Supervisor of Elections website’s real-time wait time tracker (if available) to monitor traffic at your preferred location.

Bring All Required Documents

Even if you’ve voted before, always bring your photo ID and any supplemental documents. Voter rolls are updated frequently, and discrepancies in names or addresses can delay your check-in.

If you’ve recently moved, bring a recent utility bill or lease agreement to verify your new address.

Know Your Ballot Before You Go

Review your sample ballot online before arriving at the voting site. The Duval County Supervisor of Elections website provides a personalized sample ballot based on your registered address.

Research candidates and ballot measures in advance. Many voters find it helpful to print or save a checklist of choices to avoid spending extra time in the booth.

Bring Water, Snacks, and a Portable Charger

While most sites are air-conditioned and comfortable, wait times can occasionally exceed an hour. Bring water, a light snack, and a fully charged phone to pass the time. Note that phones must be turned off or silenced inside the voting area.

Use Accessible Voting Options

All early voting sites in Duval County are ADA-compliant. If you require assistance due to a disability:

• Request an accessible voting machine with audio ballot or large-print options.
• Ask for a ballot to be brought to you if you cannot stand for long periods.
• Bring a personal assistant or family member to help you mark your ballot (election workers can also assist if needed).

Language assistance is available in Spanish, Haitian Creole, and other languages upon request.

Vote with a Friend or Family Member

Early voting is more enjoyable and efficient when done in groups. Coordinate with neighbors, coworkers, or family members to visit the same site together. This reduces travel costs and creates a sense of civic community.

Do Not Share Your Ballot or Voting Choices

While it’s legal to discuss your vote with others, Florida law prohibits showing your completed ballot to anyone inside or outside the polling place. This includes taking photos of your ballot. Violations can result in legal consequences.

Check for Weather and Traffic Updates

Duval County is prone to summer thunderstorms and occasional hurricanes. Before heading out, check local weather forecasts and traffic conditions. Some sites may close temporarily during extreme weather, and roads may be congested due to construction or events.

Sign up for election alerts via text or email through the Duval County Supervisor of Elections website to receive real-time updates.

Tools and Resources for Early Voting in Duval County

Several digital and physical tools are available to help you prepare for and navigate early voting in Duval County. These resources are maintained by official government agencies and nonpartisan organizations.

Official Tools

• Duval County Supervisor of Elections Website – www.co.duval.fl.us/elections
• Florida Voter Registration Portal – registertovote.fl.gov
• Ballot Information Tool – Personalized sample ballots available at www.duvalvoterlookup.com
• Early Voting Site Locator Map – Interactive map with real-time hours and accessibility features on the Supervisor of Elections site.
• Election Calendar – Lists all upcoming elections, deadlines, and early voting dates.

Third-Party Resources

• Vote411.org – Nonpartisan voter guide with candidate profiles, ballot measures, and voting instructions tailored to your address.
• Ballotpedia.org – Detailed analysis of local races, judicial candidates, and ballot initiatives in Duval County.
• Common Cause Florida – Provides voter education workshops and transportation assistance to early voting sites.
• League of Women Voters of Jacksonville – Offers nonpartisan voter guides and hosts Q&A sessions with candidates.

Mobile Apps

• Florida Votes – Official app by the Florida Department of State for checking registration, finding polling places, and receiving alerts.
• Vote.org – Tracks deadlines, sends reminders, and helps you request absentee ballots if needed.
• BallotReady – Allows you to preview your ballot, research candidates, and save your choices for reference.

Printed Materials

Physical copies of early voting guides, sample ballots, and site maps are available at:

• Public libraries across Duval County
• City hall and county service centers
• Community centers and faith-based organizations

Request these materials in advance if you prefer to plan offline or need them in large print or braille.

Real Examples: How Residents Successfully Voted Early in Duval County

Real-world experiences illustrate how early voting works in practice and highlight common challenges and solutions.

Example 1: Maria, a Single Mother Working Two Jobs

Maria, a resident of the Westside neighborhood, works as a nurse and a retail associate. She was concerned she wouldn’t be able to vote on Election Day due to her schedule. She used the Supervisor of Elections website to find the nearest early voting site—Westside Library—and selected a weekday evening slot.

She brought her Florida driver’s license and her child’s school ID as a backup. She arrived at 6:30 PM on a Tuesday and waited only 12 minutes. She used the touchscreen ballot machine to review her choices, which she had printed the night before. Maria cast her ballot and received a confirmation email within 24 hours.

Example 2: James, a College Student at FSU

James, a sophomore at Florida State University’s Jacksonville campus, registered to vote using his dorm address. He planned to vote on campus but learned the university’s polling location was only open on Election Day.

He used the Vote411 tool to find an early voting site near his off-campus apartment. He chose the Northside Library and visited on a Saturday afternoon. He brought his student ID and a recent utility bill in his name. He completed his ballot in under 15 minutes and posted a photo of his “I Voted” sticker on social media to encourage classmates to vote early too.

Example 3: Eleanor, a Senior with Mobility Challenges

Eleanor, 78, uses a wheelchair and lives in the Arlington neighborhood. She was worried about navigating stairs at some polling locations. She contacted the Supervisor of Elections office and requested an accessible voting site.

She was directed to the Jacksonville Veterans Memorial Coliseum, which has ramps, automatic doors, and ADA-compliant voting machines. She arrived with her daughter, who acted as her assistant. The election workers helped her adjust the ballot screen for better visibility and provided a sip-and-puff device to mark her ballot. Eleanor’s vote was counted without issue.

Example 4: Carlos, a New Citizen Voting for the First Time

Carlos became a U.S. citizen in February and registered to vote in May. He was unfamiliar with the process and worried about making a mistake. He attended a free voter education workshop hosted by the League of Women Voters at the Main Library.

He practiced using a sample ballot on a tablet provided at the event. On his scheduled early voting day, he brought his naturalization certificate and Florida ID. He received step-by-step guidance from the poll worker and voted confidently. Carlos later wrote a letter to the Supervisor of Elections thanking them for the clear instructions and inclusive environment.

FAQs: Common Questions About Early Voting in Duval County

Can I vote early if I’m registered in another Florida county?

No. You must vote in the county where you are registered. If you’ve moved to Duval County, you must update your registration before early voting begins.

What if I lose my ID? Can I still vote early?

Yes. If you don’t have an acceptable photo ID, you may cast a provisional ballot. You’ll be given instructions on how to verify your identity within a few days, typically by providing a copy of your ID or signing an affidavit.

Can I vote early if I’m out of town on Election Day?

Yes. Early voting is designed for voters who cannot be present on Election Day. You do not need an excuse to vote early in Florida.

Are early voting sites open on holidays?

No. Early voting does not occur on state or federal holidays. For example, if a holiday falls on a Saturday during early voting, that site will be closed. Check the official calendar for exceptions.

Can I bring my children with me to vote early?

Yes. Children under 18 may accompany a parent or guardian into the voting booth. They cannot assist in marking the ballot unless they are acting as a legally designated assistant for a voter with a disability.

Is there a limit to how many people can vote at one site per day?

No. Early voting sites are staffed to handle high volumes. If lines are long, additional voting stations may be opened during peak hours.

Can I change my ballot after I’ve voted early?

No. Once you submit your ballot, it is final. If you make a mistake before submitting, you can request a new ballot from the poll worker.

Do I need to wear a mask to vote early?

Mask requirements vary based on public health guidelines. As of the most recent election cycle, masks are not required but are permitted. Election workers will provide masks if requested.

How do I report a problem at an early voting site?

If you encounter issues such as long wait times, malfunctioning machines, or unprofessional behavior, you can report it directly through the Duval County Supervisor of Elections website or by emailing elections@duvalcountyfl.gov. All complaints are reviewed and responded to within 72 hours.

Can I vote early if I’m in the military or living overseas?

Yes. Military and overseas voters can request an absentee ballot through the Federal Voting Assistance Program (FVAP). Early voting is only available to voters physically present in Duval County.

Conclusion

Voting early in Duval County is a powerful way to ensure your voice is heard without the pressure of Election Day crowds. With 15+ accessible locations across Jacksonville, extended hours, and robust support systems, the system is designed to make participation as easy and inclusive as possible.

By following the steps outlined in this guide—verifying your registration, selecting the right location, preparing your ID, and planning your visit—you can cast your ballot with confidence and convenience. Real stories from residents like Maria, James, Eleanor, and Carlos show that early voting works for everyone, regardless of age, ability, or lifestyle.

Remember: Your vote is your power. Early voting removes obstacles and puts control back in your hands. Use the tools, know your rights, and make your plan today. Don’t wait until the last minute. Visit the Duval County Supervisor of Elections website now to find your nearest early voting site and schedule your time to vote.

Democracy doesn’t wait—and neither should you.