Voting & Elections
How to become a poll worker
Poll workers staff polling locations on Election Day and during early voting. It is a paid, part-time civic role that directly supports democracy in your community. Most positions require just one day of training.
Poll workers are recruited and managed by county or city election offices. Requirements (age, party registration, residency) vary by jurisdiction.
Last reviewed: June 5, 2026
Steps
Find your local election office
Poll workers are hired at the county or city level. Look up your local county election authority or board of elections — most have an online application for poll workers.
Tip: USA.gov's local government directory or your state's Secretary of State website can help you find the right office.
Confirm you meet the requirements
Common requirements include being a registered voter (in most states), being 18 years old or older (some states allow students as young as 16–17), and residing in the county where you'll work. Some jurisdictions require poll workers to match the registered party balance at a polling location.
Submit an application
Most election offices have an online application. Applications typically open 2–3 months before an election. Positions fill up — apply early.
Attend training
Once accepted, you'll attend a mandatory training session covering voting equipment, voter check-in procedures, provisional ballots, and how to handle common issues. Training is usually one session of 2–6 hours, held a week or two before the election.
Work on Election Day
Poll workers typically arrive 1–2 hours before polls open and stay until voting is closed and all materials are processed. It is usually a 12–15 hour day. You may also be assigned to early voting shifts.