If you'd rather avoid election day lines, expanded early voting for the Nov. 8 general election begins on Monday at dozens of sites throughout the suburbs.
Early voting at a select few locations began in late September, but recent changes to Illinois' election law have greatly expanded the number of early voting sites, allowing voters to choose one that's close to home, work, or along the way within their county.
Those sites -- some of which are open evenings and on weekends -- can be found through the county clerk's office where you live. All early voting sites will also offer grace period voter registration, allowing citizens to update their voter registration record or register for the first time. Grace period registrants must immediately cast a ballot after registering to vote.
Voters do not need to provide an excuse or reason why they cannot vote on Election Day. A government-issued photo ID is not required, although some clerks say it can be helpful to have one if there are questions about the voter's registration.
Find early voting sites here:
Cook County
Lake County
https://www.lakecountyil.gov/163/Elections
