Vote reporting typically begins as soon as polls close in each jurisdiction, with preliminary results posted within minutes to a few hours for many races. Official results are often certified days to weeks later, depending on local rules and ballot type. Key points by region:

• United States: Most outlets publish preliminary results on election night shortly after polls close (times vary by state and county). Official, certified results may take several days to weeks, especially in close races or where mail-in ballots are counted after Election Day. Some states provide live tracking dashboards for each county riding or district.

• Canada: Elections Canada usually posts preliminary results on election night after polls close, with the vast majority of ballots counted that evening. Final validated results are published after counting and verification in the following days. Ballot counting timelines can vary by ballot type (in-person, advance polls, special ballots).

• Other jurisdictions (examples in 2025 coverage): Major city or state-level races often show results quickly, but some contests may require more time if results are close or ballots remain to be counted. News organizations frequently update in near real-time with caveats about precinct-by-precinct reporting and potential delays.

If you share the specific election and location you’re asking about (country, state/province, and race), the exact reporting window for that contest can be described more precisely, including when to expect preliminary results and when official totals are typically certified.