More: Direct ticket? Shared ticket? Both forms of voting are permitted in Michigan’s November 5 election

Early voting works the same as going to the polls on Election Day, except it’s earlier. Registered voters can visit an early voting location, fill out their ballot, and drop it off before Election Day. For voters who want to cast their ballot in person but may be pressed for time on Election Day itself, early voting offers another convenient option, advocates say.

If you requested and received a mail-in ballot, you can also take your completed mail-in ballot to an early voting location in your community and place the ballot in a tabulator there.

How can I vote early in Michigan? And where?

First, you must be registered to vote in Michigan. Within 14 days of an election, Michigan residents who are eligible to vote must register at their local clerk’s office with proof of residency. In some communities, early voting locations may also be located at a local council office.

To find your early voting location and hours, visit the Michigan Voter Information Center at michigan.gov/vote. You can also find your local citizens’ office here if you still need to register to vote. Cities and towns can work with each other or with the county to operate an early voting location. This means your early voting location may be in a different jurisdiction than your usual voting precinct.