The latest time to buy a Mega Millions ticket varies by state but generally falls between about 6:59 p.m. and 10:59 p.m. local time on the day of the drawing. The drawing itself is held at 11 p.m. Eastern Time on Tuesdays and Fridays. For example:
- Arizona cuts off ticket sales at 6:59 p.m.
- California at 7:45 p.m.
- New Mexico at 8:45 p.m.
- Pennsylvania at 9:59 p.m.
- New Jersey at 10:45 p.m.
- Most states close sales between 10:45 p.m. and 10:59 p.m.
Since the cut-off time varies by jurisdiction, it is best to check with the specific state lottery. Tickets must be purchased before the cut-off time on drawing night, and after that, tickets are no longer sold for that drawing.
