Early voting for the 2024 Primary Election in Maryland is officially underway, giving voters ample opportunity to cast their ballots ahead of the May 14 Election Day.

According to the Maryland State Board of Elections, early in-person voting centers opened statewide and will remain open daily until Wednesday, May 9. The extended early voting period runs for just over a week, with centers operating from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m., including weekends.

Any registered voter in the state is eligible to take advantage of early voting by visiting an early voting center in the county where they live. Additionally, Maryland allows for same-day voter registration, enabling unregistered but eligible citizens to register and vote during the early voting timeframe.

“Early voting provides greater flexibility and convenience for Marylanders to participate in the electoral process,” said Linda Lamone, State Board of Elections Administrator. “We encourage all eligible voters to make their voices heard.”

For those unable to vote in person, mail-in ballots offer another option. Registered voters can request a mail-in ballot, which must be returned by 8 p.m. on May 14 if sent via the U.S. Postal Service or dropped off at an official ballot drop box located in each of Maryland’s counties and Baltimore City.

A total of 286 ballot drop boxes will be available statewide until 8 p.m. on Primary Election Day for voters to securely submit their completed mail-in ballots directly.

Voters who prefer to cast their ballot the traditional way can still do so by visiting their assigned polling place on Tuesday, May 14, when voting locations will be open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.

With multiple voting options, the Maryland State Board of Elections aims to maximize accessibility and participation in the democratic process for the upcoming primary races.

“We want to make it as easy as possible for every eligible Marylander to exercise their fundamental right to vote,” Lamone stated. “Between early voting, mail-in ballots, and Election Day polling places, no voter should encounter unnecessary barriers.”

As early voting continues through May 9, election officials encourage voters to study candidate information, make their choices, and take advantage of the various voting opportunities to ensure their voices are heard in the 2024 Primary Election.