Election Day 2026 / Public information
Voting today: station times, ID, ballots and results
Direct answers to the practical questions voters are asking on 4 November 2026.
Updated
Closing rule remains active
Voters already in the queue at 21:00 must still be assisted. A station moves to counting only after voting there is complete.
What time do voting stations close today?
Ordinary voting stations close at 21:00 SAST. The IEC has said that voters who are already in the queue at closing time may still vote.
Can I vote at any voting station?
No. For these municipal elections you must vote at the specific station where you are registered. The Presidency has specifically reminded voters that votes cannot be transferred to another station because of travel.
What ID can I use, and is Home Affairs open?
Accepted voting documents include a Smart ID card, green barcoded ID book or valid Temporary Identity Certificate. Home Affairs front offices are operating from 07:00 to 21:00 today for election-related identity services.
Why do some voters get two ballots and others three?
Metro voters receive two ballots: a ward ballot and a proportional-representation party ballot. Voters in local municipalities receive those two plus a district proportional-representation ballot.
What help is available for visually impaired voters?
SAnews reports that the IEC has asked presiding officers to explain where the first column of a double-column ballot ends when helping visually impaired voters use a Universal Ballot Template. The template’s numbering can differ from a ballot with fewer than 80 candidates. Ask the presiding officer for guidance on the layout before marking your choice.
Can I take a picture of my marked ballot?
No. The Electoral Commission says making a photographic image of a marked ballot paper is strictly prohibited. Ballot secrecy must be protected.
When will the 2026 local election results be available?
Counting begins at a station only after voting there is complete. The IEC says results are reconciled, captured, verified and audited before final results and council seat allocations are declared within seven days. Early station tallies and partial counts are not final council results.