How to vote in the BC provincial election
Who can vote, how to register, what ID to bring and the ways to vote, for the October 24, 2026 general election. Advance voting is October 16–21; nominations closed October 3. Rules below are Elections BC's current published rules (official election page).
Who can vote
To vote in a BC provincial election you must be a Canadian citizen, 18 or older, and a BC resident for at least six months (Elections BC).
Register to vote
The October 1 deadline to update details for a Where to Vote card has passed. Eligible voters can still register when they vote. Use Elections BC online voter registration or call 1-800-661-8683. Check the official election page for updates.
What ID do I need?
Elections BC accepts any one of three approaches (full rules):
- One document showing your name, photo and address: for example a BC driver’s licence, BC Identification Card, or BC Services Card with photo.
- Two documents showing your name, with at least one showing your current address: for example a passport, birth certificate, utility bill, bank statement or lease. Electronic versions such as e-bills are acceptable.
- Voter vouching: a registered voter or approved authority can vouch for your identity, with the required declarations.
Ways to vote
- Final Voting Day: 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Pacific time.
- Advance voting: now under way through October 21, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. local time. Not every location opens every day; check Where to Vote (Elections BC update).
- Vote by mail: request online or by phone by October 18. Elections BC must receive the completed package by 8 p.m. Pacific time October 24.
- District electoral office: from when an office opens until 4 p.m. Pacific time on October 24; offices are closed September 30 and October 12.
- Assisted telephone voting and mobile or special voting (hospitals, long-term care) for those who qualify.
Source: Elections BC — 2026 ways to vote. Key dates are on the BC election 2026 guide.
Voting FAQ
Who can vote in a BC provincial election?
You must be a Canadian citizen, at least 18 years old, and a resident of BC for at least six months (Elections BC).
Do I need ID to vote in BC?
Yes. You show one document with your name, photo and address, or two documents with your name (at least one with your current address), or have someone vouch for you. See the full list at Elections BC voter ID.
Can I vote by mail in BC?
Yes. Request a package online or by phone by October 18. The package must reach Elections BC before 8 p.m. Pacific time on October 24 (ways to vote).
Can I vote before voting day in BC?
Yes. Advance voting is October 16–21 (8 a.m. to 8 p.m. local time). District electoral offices accept votes after opening until 4 p.m. Pacific time on October 24 (ways to vote).
What are the voting hours on Final Voting Day?
Voting places are open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Pacific time on Final Voting Day, according to Elections BC.