*Information listed here is from the North Carolina State Board of Elections Calendar of Events and is subject to updates that may not be listed here
- Statewide candidate filing for the 2026 primary election begins at noon on Monday, Dec. 1, 2025, and ends at noon on Friday, Dec. 19, 2025.
- The withdrawal deadline is 5 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 16, 2025.
- Candidates file at the appropriate county board of elections office or the State Board, depending upon the contest. Candidates filing in December can check Filing Fees for more information.
- Note: The location for filing with the State Board of Elections is to be determined. Please check this page again as the filing period approaches.
- Running for Office
- Filing for Candidacy
- The deadline to withdraw a notice of candidacy for the 2026 primary election is 5 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 16, 2025.
- Withdrawal of Candidacy
- The 2026 primary election is Tuesday, March 3, 2026.
- Polling places will be open from 6:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.
- Any voter in line at their assigned polling place at 7:30 p.m. will be able to vote.
- Registered voters can find their polling place and sample ballot here: Voter Search.
- North Carolina’s reserved date for a second primary is Tuesday, May 12, 2026.
- A candidate can request a second primary if no candidate reaches the necessary vote percentage in a primary contest to become the nominee.
- Check Upcoming Election after the 2026 primary election in March to see if any contests will have second primaries.
- The 2026 general election is Tuesday, Nov. 3, 2026.
- Polling places will be open from 6:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.
- Any voter in line at their assigned polling place at 7:30 p.m. will be able to vote.
- Registered voters can find their polling place and sample ballot here: Voter Search.