California Primary Guide

The California Democratic primary takes place on Tuesday, March 3rd and California Democrat and Independent voters may participate.

Polls are open from 7AM through 8PM. If you are in line before 8PM, you will still be able to vote. If you are registered to vote, you do not need photo ID.

Can I participate even if I’m not a registered Democrat?

California’s Democratic Primary is open to registered Democrats, Independents, and Unaffiliated voters.

Can I register to vote at my polling location on election day?

Yes! You can update your voter registration or register to vote on election day through California’s Conditional Voter Registration. Make sure you bring one of these valid forms of ID.

Who will appear on the ballot?

The California primary ballot will include several candidates who’ve withdrawn from the race. Here’s a list of active candidates who will appear on the primary ballot:

• Joe Biden

• Mike Bloomberg

• Pete Buttigieg

• Tulsi Gabbard

• Amy Klobuchar

• Bernie Sanders

• Tom Steyer

• Elizabeth Warren

What is a primary? How is it different from the caucuses that have taken place in Iowa and Nevada?

The California primary process is much more straightforward than the caucuses that took place in other states. Participants simply go to their standard polling location and vote for their candidate of choice. The experience is very similar to participating in a general election.

I have other questions about the process. Can you help?

Sure! Email us at info@centeractionnow.org and we will do our best to help. California’s Secretary of State also maintains an extensive FAQ page that may be helpful.