KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WOKI) — As voters prepare to head to the polls Tuesday, the Knox County Election Commission is reminding residents about voting hours, identification requirements, polling place changes and absentee ballot deadlines.
One of the biggest reminders from election officials is that polls in Knox County open at 8 a.m. and close at 8 p.m. Tuesday. Officials noted that some online sources may incorrectly list a 7 a.m. opening time, but Knox County polling locations will not open until 8 a.m.
Election officials also emphasized that voters must cast their ballot at their assigned precinct on Election Day. Residents who are unsure where they vote can use the “Where Do I Vote?” tool at KnoxVotes.org to find their polling location based on their home address.
Two-Page Ballot Includes Constitutional Amendments
Officials are encouraging voters to review their ballot before arriving at the polls.
The 2026 General Election ballot consists of two pages and includes three Tennessee constitutional amendment questions. Election administrators recommend voters familiarize themselves with the amendment proposals before Election Day to help speed up the voting process.
Photo ID Required
Voters must present a valid photo identification issued by the State of Tennessee or the federal government before receiving a ballot.
Acceptable IDs include:
- Tennessee driver’s license
- Tennessee photo ID card
- U.S. passport
- Other qualifying state or federal government-issued photo IDs
Election officials stress that driver’s licenses issued by other states are not accepted for voting in Tennessee unless an exemption applies under state law.
Anyone in line when polls close at 8 p.m. will still be allowed to vote.
Absentee Ballot Deadline Reminder
Voters who requested absentee ballots by mail and are concerned about mailing delays still have options.
Election officials say absentee ballots can be taken to the front counters of either the Downtown Post Office at 501 West Main Street or the Weisgarber Road Post Office at 1237 Weisgarber Road and hand-stamped with postage by 4 p.m. Tuesday.
The Election Commission will collect ballots received at both locations later in the afternoon.
Polling Place Changes Continue in 2026
Officials are also reminding voters that several precinct locations have changed during 2026.
New polling locations include:
- Precinct 61E: Faithway Baptist Church
- Precinct 63: Karns High School
- Precinct 66SE: Korean Church of Knoxville
- Precinct 68: Election Commission Downtown West
- Precinct 78 (including former Precinct 77 voters): Marbledale Baptist Church
Voters impacted by those changes are encouraged to verify their polling locations before heading out Tuesday.
For complete election information, polling place locations and voter resources, officials recommend visiting http://KnoxVotes.org.
