How to vote in Joliet: registration, early voting and Election Day

Start with your county

Joliet sits in two counties. Most residents vote through the Will County Clerk, but some neighborhoods on the west side are in Kendall County and vote through the Kendall County Clerk. Your county decides where you register, where you vote early and which ballot you receive. If you are not sure, use the Illinois State Board of Elections address lookup.

Who can vote

To register in Illinois you must be a U.S. citizen, at least 18 years old by Election Day, and have lived at your address for at least 30 days before the election. Seventeen-year-olds who will be 18 by the general election may vote in that year's primary.

How to register

You can register online through the Illinois State Board of Elections, by mail, or in person at your county clerk's office and other official sites. Online and mail registration close a few weeks before each election. After that, Illinois offers grace-period registration, including registration on Election Day at your polling place. In-person registration requires two forms of identification, and at least one must show your current address.

Three ways to vote

Vote by mail. Any registered Illinois voter can request a mail ballot. No reason is needed. Request it from your county clerk and return it by mail or at an official drop box before the deadline.

Vote early in person. Early voting usually starts several weeks before Election Day. Locations and hours are set by your county clerk for each election.

Vote on Election Day. Polls in Illinois are open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. You vote at the polling place assigned to your address, which can change between elections, so check before you go.

Do I need ID?

Registered voters voting at their assigned polling place generally do not need to show photo ID. You may be asked for ID if you are registering at the same time, voting for the first time after registering by mail, or if your signature is challenged.

Upcoming Joliet elections

The next regular municipal election is April 6, 2027. The mayor and the five district City Council seats are on that ballot. The three at-large seats follow the 2029 cycle. Dates, deadlines and locations are set by your county clerk, so confirm them before each election.

Confirm everything with official sources

Rules and deadlines can change from one election to the next. Use the official links below before you vote. Joliet Votes is independent, nonpartisan and not affiliated with any election authority.