Overview
The Candidate Guide gives you information about forms, fees, requirements, important deadlines, and other helpful tips for the November 3, 2026 Statewide General Election.
The nomination process can be complicated, and the filing deadlines are rigid. Please file your candidate paperwork early. Mistakes and/or oversights can be corrected if given adequate time. Otherwise, you may run out of time to correct any mistakes before the deadline.
If you have questions about your candidacy or any information presented in this guide, please call Dan Miller at 415-473-6437 or email Candidate Services.
Important! The Candidate Guide provides general information about the nomination and election of candidates. It does not have the force and effect of law, regulation, or rule.
The Registrar of Voters does not provide legal advice and this guide is not intended to provide legal advice. Any person, organization, or candidate using this guide may not rely on it as a substitute for legal counsel. Statutes and regulations change and are updated on a frequent basis; therefore, the guidelines provided in this booklet may not reflect the most current state of the law
List of Topics
- Important dates Chronology of steps to becoming a candidate on the ballot.
- Offices open and qualifications What offices are open for this election what qualifications a candidate needs.
- Election at a glance General information about election procedures.
- Common questions Frequently asked questions about being a candidate for office.
- Applying to be a candidate What a candidate needs to know about applying for election.
- Campaign Finance Statements Rules, regulations, and forms regarding campaign financing.
- Campaign Essentials Rules and regulations about advertising, signage, and electioneering.
- Voter and Election Data Rules, regulations, and forms to purchase voter data.
- Who to contact about violations Resources to contact regarding suspected election violations.