US Midterm Elections 2026: How to register to vote, when is the last day, what documents are required? FAQs answered

Here's everything you need to know about the 2026 US midterm elections from key dates to how you can register to vote.

Midterm elections fall exactly halfway through a US President's four-year term, which is why they are called “midterms.” As per US Vote Foundation, these elections take place two years after a presidential election and cover every state, though the President and Vice President are not on the ballot.

What is decided in a midterm election?

According to US Vote Foundation, the entire composition of Congress is at stake in a midterm election. All 435 seats in the House of Representatives are up for grabs, along with one-third of the 100 Senate seats.

Many states also add races for governor, state representatives, judges and other local posts, along with state-specific ballot measures.

How do I register to vote?

According to usa.gov, voters can begin registering at vote.gov by selecting their state or territory, which shows whether they can register online, by mail, or in person at their local election office.

Other ways to register, include downloading the National Mail Voter Registration Form, checking with local government offices, visiting the department of motor vehicles, or contacting state and county public assistance offices such as SNAP.

US citizens living abroad, service members posted overseas, and their eligible family members can register and request an absentee ballot through the Federal Voting Assistance Program.

According to the US Election Assistance Commission, eligibility rules vary by state. Generally, a person must:

Be at least 18 years old by Election Day