In-Person Voting: Precinct Polling vs. Voter’s Choice Act (VCA)
California operates under a decentralized, dual-model in-person voting system. Depending on the county you live in, in-person voting is managed through either the traditional precinct-based model or the modernized Voter’s Choice Act (VCA) model.
This guide explains how these two models differ, what to expect when you visit a voting location, and the accessibility services available to all voters.
1. Comparing the Two Voting Models
As of the 2026 election cycle, 30 of California’s 58 counties (representing the vast majority of the state’s population) have adopted the Voter’s Choice Act, while 28 counties maintain the traditional precinct model.
| Feature | Traditional Precinct Model (28 Counties) | Voter’s Choice Act Model (30 Counties) |
|---|---|---|
| In-Person Voting Location | Election Day location and early-voting options are county-specific; use the official locator or contact your county elections office. | You may vote at any Vote Center in your county of registration. |
| Voting Window | Polls are open on Election Day from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.; counties may also offer early voting before Election Day. | Multi-day early voting is available at 11-day and 4-day Vote Centers; dates and hours vary by site. |
| Voter Verification | County election staff verify your registration using the county’s voter records and procedures. | Vote Centers use county election systems to verify voters and provide the correct ballot. |
| On-Site Services | Services vary by county and location; ask staff about registration, provisional ballots, accessibility, and language assistance. | Vote Centers can provide registration, replacement ballots, accessible voting machines, and language assistance. |
| Voting Equipment | Equipment varies by county and location. | Equipment varies by county and location; ask for an accessible ballot-marking device if needed. |
2. The Voter’s Choice Act (VCA) Model Explained
Established by Senate Bill 450, the VCA model gives participating counties a full-service Vote Center model with more days and more places to vote.
Key Advantages of VCA Vote Centers:
- Flexibility: You are not restricted to one site near your house. You can vote near your job, school, or anywhere convenient within your county.
- County-Provided Services: Vote Centers can provide registration, replacement ballots, accessible voting machines, and language assistance; exact services and equipment depend on the county and location.
- Extended Multi-Day Hours: For the November 3, 2026 election, the Secretary of State lists October 24 as the VCA Vote Center opening date and October 31 as the opening date for the remaining 4-day centers. Check the official locator for each site’s hours.
3. On-Site Accessibility & Technology
Voting locations must provide accessible ways to vote. Equipment, curbside procedures, and language assistance vary by county and location, so confirm details with the county elections office or the official locator:
Touchscreen Ballot Marking Devices (BMDs)
Many voting sites provide accessible ballot-marking devices that allow voters to mark a paper ballot privately and independently. Ask county staff what equipment is available at your location.
Remote Accessible Vote-by-Mail (RAVBM)
Some counties offer Remote Accessible Vote-by-Mail (RAVBM), allowing eligible voters to download and mark a ballot at home with assistive technology. Check your county’s current instructions before using this option.
Curbside Voting
If you cannot easily enter a voting location due to mobility limits, poll workers will bring a ballot, roster, and marking materials directly out to your vehicle at the curb.
Bilingual Language Assistance
Language assistance and translated materials depend on the county and the language-access requirements that apply at that location. Ask the county elections office or poll workers for help.
4. How to Find Your Nearest Location
Finding your nearest voting location or drop box is quick and accessible:
- SOS Interactive Location Tool: Visit caearlyvoting.sos.ca.gov for addresses, maps, and operating hours across all 58 counties.
- My Voter Status Dashboard: Log in at voterstatus.sos.ca.gov to see your assigned polling place (if in a precinct county) or nearby VCA centers.
- Voter Hotline: Call the Secretary of State at (800) 345-VOTE (8683) or use the current SOS voter hotline list. TTY/TDD: 711.