Georgia's primary election takes place on May 19, with early voting already underway through May 15. The primary will determine which candidates advance to face general election opponents in November across multiple offices, including the governorship, U.S. Senate seat, and statewide posts. Voters will also decide races for all 14 of Georgia's U.S. House seats, every state legislative seat, and several judicial positions.
In a primary election, voters from each party select nominees to represent them in the general election. When voters arrive at the polls, they will be asked which party's ballot they wish to receive—either Republican or Democratic. Georgia does not require registered party affiliation, and choosing one ballot does not automatically register a voter with that party. Some voters deliberately select the opposing party's ballot to vote against candidates they wish to avoid facing their preferred nominee in November, a practice that is entirely legal.
Early voting is available through May 15 at designated locations, which may differ from regular polling places. The Georgia Secretary of State's My Voter Page at mvp.sos.ga.gov allows voters to locate their nearest early voting site and view their polling location. Any Georgia resident may vote absentee without providing a specific reason. Those requesting mail ballots should contact their county registrar's office and provide an ID number from their driver's license or state-issued ID.
On Election Day, polls open at 7 a.m. and close at 7 p.m. Georgia law requires employers to grant workers time off to vote. Voters must bring a photo ID, such as a driver's license, passport, military ID, or government-issued identification. Expired driver's licenses are technically acceptable, though renewal is recommended. Those arriving without ID may cast a provisional ballot, which will be recorded but not counted until identity verification is completed through instructions provided by poll workers.
If no candidate wins a majority in a race, a runoff will be held on June 16. Voters who cast ballots on one party's primary ballot must participate in that same party's runoff if needed. Children are welcome at polling locations as long as they remain with a parent and do not interfere with voting. The general election is scheduled for November 3, with a voter registration deadline of October 5 for that contest.
