Poll workers help local election offices run polling places, assist voters with procedures and support the orderly administration of an election. Requirements, pay, training and availability differ by state and county. People interested in serving during the 2026 midterms should contact their local election office to learn whether recruitment is open and what qualifications apply.
What do poll workers do?
Depending on the jurisdiction and assigned role, poll workers may check voters in, explain voting procedures, manage lines, set up equipment, provide accessibility assistance, answer process questions and help close the polling place. They are expected to follow election law and training instructions impartially. Their job is to administer the process—not to campaign for a candidate or tell voters how to vote.
Who can serve?
Eligibility requirements vary. Some jurisdictions set minimum age or residency requirements, while others have rules about party affiliation, student participation or whether certain public employees may serve. Do not assume the rules are identical nationwide. Check the local election office’s current application page for eligibility, required identification and any restrictions.
How to apply
- Find your local election office through your state’s official election website at Vote.gov.
- Search the office’s website for “poll worker,” “election judge” or “election worker.” Different jurisdictions use different titles.
- Review eligibility, work hours, compensation and the application deadline.
- Submit the official application and respond to any required screening or confirmation.
- Attend the required training and ask questions about procedures before accepting an assignment.
What training may cover
Training commonly addresses check-in procedures, ballot handling, voting equipment, accessibility, voter privacy, incident reporting and closing procedures. The exact curriculum depends on the jurisdiction. Election workers should use the official manual and supervisor instructions rather than improvising when an unfamiliar situation arises.
Why neutral administration matters
Voters need to receive consistent procedural information regardless of political preference. Poll workers should not pressure voters, disclose private voter information or make partisan statements while carrying out official duties. Observers and poll watchers may have separate legal roles, but those roles do not replace the authority and responsibilities assigned to election workers. Read our guide to poll watchers versus election workers.
Can you still apply close to Election Day?
Some offices may continue recruiting or maintain a reserve list; others may have completed hiring and training. Only the local election office can confirm current openings. Contact the office directly and ask about late vacancies, training dates and whether another election cycle is a better fit.
Official resources
- U.S. Election Assistance Commission — national election administration resources.
- Vote.gov — links to state election websites.
Bottom line
Poll-worker recruitment is local, so applications, pay and eligibility depend on the jurisdiction. Use the official election office website, complete the required training and follow neutral procedures. This article describes typical duties; it does not confirm that a particular county currently has vacancies.
