Election Filing Begins December 4, 2023

North Carolina -- December 4, 2023: Soon, voters in North Carolina will be able to find out who is running for office in 2024.

For the majority of the 2024 elections, the period for filing candidates starts at noon on Monday, December 4, 2023, and closes at noon on Friday, December 15, 2023.

Candidates must file their Notice of Candidacy and pay their filing costs at the county board of elections office or with the State Board of Elections at the North Carolina State Fairgrounds in Raleigh, depending on the office they are running for. 

“Choosing to run for an elected office is a major decision,” said Karen Brinson Bell, State Board executive director. “We are preparing for a smooth and customer-friendly process for all candidates, and we are committed to providing an efficient and safe environment for everyone.”

The 2024 primary election is on March 5. The general election is Nov. 5.

Voting starts over two months in advance of the Primary Election, which takes place on March 5. For qualified voters who request them, county boards of elections will start mailing absentee votes on Friday, January 12, 2024.

On election day, absentee ballots must be submitted no later than 7:30 p.m.

Early voting in person takes place in person from Thursday, February 15, to Saturday, March 2.

For voters serving overseas, there are distinct deadlines for both registration and absentee voting. For precise guidelines, visit the North Carolina State Board of Elections.

For more information visit NCSBE