Early Voting Starts October 20 in Harris County: Free METRO Rides to Vote Centers and Key Local Races Highlight 2025 Election
As the 2025 election season kicks off, Harris County residents are being reminded that their voices matter now more than ever. Early Voting begins Monday, October 20 and runs through Friday, October 31, offering voters a chance to weigh in on key local and state decisions before Election Day on November 4. With nearly 600 vote centers open on Election Day, and 70 vote centers during Early Voting, accessibility has never been greater.
Just a short drive, bus ride, or METRORail trip from any Harris County neighborhood, residents can easily get to the polls and make their voices heard—whether they’re voting on amendments to the Texas Constitution or choosing their next city council representative.
“This election provides Harris County voters an opportunity to shape the future of their communities and impact leadership at both the local and state levels,” said Harris County Clerk Teneshia Hudspeth, encouraging residents to participate in what’s expected to be a meaningful election cycle.
What’s on the Ballot
Voters will decide on:
- 17 proposed amendments to the Texas Constitution
- 18th Congressional District
- Houston City Council At-Large Position 4
- Other local elections for cities, school districts, utility districts, and college trustees
To find your personalized sample ballot and the nearest vote center, visit HarrisVotes.com.
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When and Where to Vote
Early Voting Schedule (Oct. 20–Oct. 31)
- Monday–Saturday: 7 a.m. – 7 p.m.
- Sunday, Oct. 26: Noon – 7 p.m.
Election Day (Tuesday, Nov. 4)
- 7 a.m. – 7 p.m. at nearly 600 vote centers across Harris County
Voter ID Requirements
To vote in person, bring one of the following acceptable photo IDs:
- Texas Driver’s License
- Texas Personal ID
- Texas Handgun License
- Texas Election ID Certificate
- U.S. Military ID (with photo)
- U.S. Citizenship Certificate (with photo)
- U.S. Passport
If you don’t have one of these IDs, you can still vote by completing a Reasonable Impediment Declaration (RID) and bringing a supporting document like a utility bill, bank statement, or voter registration certificate.
Voting by Mail
Mail-in voting is available for eligible voters including those:
- 65 years or older
- Sick or disabled
- Out of Harris County during the voting period
- Expecting to give birth around Election Day
- In jail but still eligible to vote
- Deadline to apply for a mail-in ballot: Friday, October 24
Details and applications available at HarrisVotes.com.
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Free METRO Rides to the Polls
In an effort to support voter turnout, the Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County (METRO) is providing free round-trip rides on Local Bus, METRORail, curb2curb, and METROLift.
Free Ride Schedule
- Early Voting: Oct. 20–31
- Monday–Saturday: 7 a.m. – 7 p.m.
- Sunday: Noon – 7 p.m.
- Election Day: Tuesday, Nov. 4
- 7 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Simply show your voter ID or other approved documentation to ride for free. Voters can plan their trip using the RideMETRO app or by visiting RideMETRO.org.
As the countdown to Election Day continues, Harris County officials and community leaders alike are reminding everyone that civic participation is the foundation of strong local governance. Whether you're casting your vote for the first time or the fiftieth, your ballot plays a vital role in shaping the future of our region.
Stay informed. Show up early. Vote with confidence. Your voice matters, Harris County.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
