In most places, you must be in line when the polls close, but you can still vote if you’re already in line at closing time. Exact hours vary by country, state/province, and election type, so here are quick general guidelines and how to check yours:
- Canada (federal elections): Polls are open for 12 hours across the country, with local start times. You can vote as long as the line is active when closing and you’re in line by the closing time. Check your voter information card or the online service for your riding’s precise hours.
- United States (state-by-state): Most polling places open around 7:00 a.m. and close between 7:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. In many jurisdictions, if you’re in line at closing time, you are still allowed to vote. Local election offices provide exact times for your polling place.
- Germany (Bundestag/European elections): Polling stations typically run 8:00–18:00 on election day. If you’re in line by closing, you generally have the opportunity to vote.
- United Kingdom (in-person voting): You vote at your assigned polling station, usually open from early morning to 10:00 p.m. If you’re in a queue at closing, you can still vote. Check your electoral registration details for precise times.
- Other EU or international examples vary; many jurisdictions follow the rule that being in line at closing allows voting, but always confirm locally.
How to confirm your exact closing time quickly:
- Look up your local election authority’s page or use the voter information service for your riding/area.
- Check your official voter card or registration notice for polling place hours.
- If in doubt, contact your local election office the day of the election for a definitive answer.
If you share your country, state/province, and the election date, I can give you the precise closing time and the exact rule for being in line at closing.
