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California 2024 primary election guide | How to register, vote, track your ballots

Here is a guide that will walk you through what you need to know before you cast your vote in San Diego County.

SAN DIEGO — The presidential election year in 2024 kicks off in California with “Super Tuesday” on March 5, 2024 with the Presidential Primary. 

Registered voters across California will have the opportunity to choose candidates in the U.S. Senate, Congress, state legislature and of course, the President of the United States.  

Here's what you need to know in the days leading up to the polls opening. 

When will I receive my ballot? 

The deadline for ballots to start getting mailed to everyone was Feb. 5. If you lost your ballot or need a new one, head to San Diego County's Registrar of Voters to register for a replacement

Do I have to be registered with a party to vote in its presidential primary?

It depends which party you're trying to vote on. For Republican, yes, you can only vote for that party's presidential candidates — like Donald Trump or Nikki Haley — if you are already a party member. For the democratic members, unaffiliated voters can choose a Democrat candidate, but they have to request a special ballot with your chosen party on it. 

How do I register to vote in California

You can complete a voter registration application online at the state's Register to Vote website. You can also pick up a paper application at your county elections office, any Department of Motor Vehicles field office, and many post offices, public libraries, and government offices.

How do I know if I’m registered?

You can check your voter registration status at any time to make sure it’s current and you’re eligible to vote.  

What do I need to vote?

Identification is not required to vote in California, but it's a good idea to bring ID with you when you vote for the first time. You can find more information about identification here.

Will there be early voting?

Yes — and it's already started. San Diego County residents can drop ballots off as of February 5, Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

You can also vote by mail and avoid lines on Election Day. Fill your ballot out at home, sign it, date it and return it by mail or at any of the drop boxes located across San Diego County.

Where can I find my polling location? 

The San Diego County Registrar of Voters opened early voting February 5, Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. On February 24, select vote centers — along with the Registrar's office — will be open daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. From March 2 through March 4, all vote centers and the Registrar's office will be open daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

All vote centers, official ballot drop boxes, and the Registrar's office will be open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. on March 5, the final day to vote in the primary election.

You can find a full list of San Diego County polling locations here.

WATCH: Early voting centers open Saturday, February 24 at select locations in San Diego

How do I know my ballot has been counted?

You can track your ballot every step of the way by signing up for Where’s my Ballot? This allows you to see when the Registrar mails your ballot, when it arrives back at the Registrar’s office and when it is counted.

WATCH RELATED: Latinos expected to play divisive role in several states in 2024 election

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