Short answer: voting times vary by country, by location, and by election day conditions, but many voters report that in-person voting typically takes a few minutes to about 15–20 minutes, with wait times sometimes longer at busy polling places or during peak hours. Details by context
- United States
- In-person voting duration depends on line length, check-in speed, and the number of ballots. The actual ballot casting usually takes a few minutes once at the booth, but wait times can extend total time to 10–30 minutes or more in busy precincts, especially during peak turnout periods. For example, surveys and polling data have highlighted wait times commonly ranging from under 10 minutes to longer durations in high-demand moments, with longer waits more likely in densely populated areas or during high-turnout elections.
* To estimate a personal wait, you can check official or local election resources such as your state or city elections page, or wait-time maps if available for your location.
- Europe and other regions
- In many European countries, voting times are typically short, often under 10 minutes for a standard in-person vote, with variations by country, polling place organization, and whether early voting or postal voting is available. Individual experiences vary by country and election logistics.
- General tips to reduce time
- Check whether you can vote early or via mail/absentee in your area.
- Confirm your polling place before Election Day and know the required ID or documentation.
- If possible, vote during off-peak hours or use independent wait-time estimates for your site if available.
What affects your experience
- Wait times, precinct efficiency, and staffing levels.
- Availability of early voting or curbside options.
- Turnout levels and ballot complexity (more races or contests can lengthen the process).
If you’d like, provide your country or state, and I can give a more precise estimate and official sources for your area.
