Voting by Mail in Georgia: Absentee Ballots Step by Step

Who can vote by mail

Any registered Georgia voter may request an absentee ballot — Georgia is a no-excuse state. You don't need to be sick, traveling, or elderly. You do need to request it for each election (or check the box for the full cycle if you're 65+, disabled, or a military/overseas voter).

How to request one

Apply online at the Georgia Secretary of State's absentee portal, or submit a paper application to your county registrar. Applications open 78 days before an election and must arrive at least 11 days before election day. You'll need your driver's license or state ID number.

Filling it out correctly

Use blue or black ink, fill the oval completely, and — critically — complete the oath envelope including your ID number and signature. Most rejected mail ballots fail on envelope mistakes, not the ballot itself. Seal everything in the provided envelopes.

Getting it back on time

Your ballot must be RECEIVED by 7pm on election day — a postmark is not enough. Mail it at least a week out, or use an official county drop box (available during early-voting hours), or hand-deliver it to your county election office. You can track its status on the My Voter Page.

Changed your mind?

If you requested a mail ballot but decide to vote in person, bring the mail ballot to be canceled, or sign an affidavit if you never received it. You will not be turned away — but tell the poll worker about the outstanding ballot.

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