Election season has begun, Virginia! On Aug. 4, 2026, Virginia will hold its primary election. This election will determine which candidates for the US Senate, House, and local offices will be on the ballot for the upcoming midterm elections on November 3.
Whether you’re a veteran voter or this is your first time casting a ballot–elections can be daunting, but here at Dogwood, we have you covered during election season and beyond.
Here’s everything you need to know about voting in Virginia during the primaries.
THE BASICS:
Virginia’s primary election is Tuesday, August 4, 2026.
CHECK REGISTRATION STATUS:
The last day to register to vote and cast a regular ballot for the primary election was July 24, 2026. Afterwards, you may register in-person to vote using a provisional ballot.
Not sure about your status? Visit Dogwood’s voter registration guide to look up your registration status.
KNOW YOUR POLLING PLACE:
It’s good to stay up-to-date on your polling place so you don’t have to scramble on Election Day.
You can use Dogwood’s voter registration guide to find your polling place, or visit the Virginia Department of Elections website.
GETTING TO THE POLLS:
Life is sometimes full of surprises, whether it’s unexpected car troubles or not being able to drive yourself; nothing should stop you from making your vote count—especially when there are plenty of organizations that can help you make it to the polls at no cost to you.
Organizations like VoteRun are volunteer-based rideshare services that transport voters to their polling place for free.
ELECTION DAY VOTING:
When you get in line on Election Day–stay in line! Even if your polling place closes, if you’re in line, your vote must be counted. In Virginia, polling places open at 6 a.m. and close at 7 p.m.
When it’s your turn in line, you must provide your poll worker a valid ID or sign an ID Confirmation Statement.
You’ll then be handed your ballot and cast your vote! Want to know who’s on the ballot ahead of time? Visit Vote 411 for more information.
ELECTION DAY ACTIONS:
Your vote is the most important way to make your voice heard, but there are ways to help beyond casting your ballot.
Whether it’s volunteering your time as a poll greeter or connecting with progressives at an election party awaiting the results, there are plenty of ways to stay connected to the issues you care about. Here are some local actions you can take:
Volunteering for transportation to polling locations
Organizations like the Action Network and RideShare2Vote allow you to volunteer for Election Day ride-sharing.
Volunteering as a poll greeter
Most of Hampton Roads is in need of volunteers to greet voters at the polls. There are openings for Virginia Beach, Chesapeake, and Suffolk volunteer slots. Check out this event from Virginia Grassroots for more information.
Check out a post-election watch party
Election night can be stressful, but Democratic groups around Virginia often host watch parties after the polls have closed. This way, like-minded progressives can watch the vote count in community with each other. Swing Left and Blue Victory War Room are both hosting watch parties for this primary election!
