Short answer: In New Jersey, polling sites close at 8:00 PM on Election Day. If you are in line at 8:00 PM, you are still allowed to vote, and ballots are counted after the polls officially close.

Details and tips

• Opening hours: Polls generally open at 6:00 AM local time on Election Day. Plan to vote early if possible to avoid lines.

• In-line rule: Being in line by 8:00 PM qualifies you to vote, even if the line moves after the official closing time.

• How many ways to vote: New Jersey offers three main options—vote by mail ballot, in-person early voting, or voting at your polling place on Election Day. Check which option you’re using and bring any required IDs if applicable.

• Local variations: While the statewide rule is 8 PM close, some counties may publish specific local guidance for polling locations or provisional ballots. It’s a good idea to verify with your county election office if you have any doubts.

Why this matters

• Since NJ uses a uniform statewide closing time, planning around 6 AM–8 PM keeps you aligned with official hours and avoids last-minute issues at the polls.

• If you’re voting in a close race or just want to ensure your vote counts, arriving early or being prepared to wait in line until 8 PM or later (if necessary to complete the process) is prudent.

If you’d like, I can tailor this to your specific county in New Jersey and provide the exact polling place hours and any town-specific guidelines.