With Election Day 2024 right around the corner, New Jersey residents are gearing up to head to the polls on Tuesday, November 5. While the focus will be on casting ballots in the 2024 presidential election, it’s also important to know what services and institutions will be open or closed on this state-observed holiday. Here’s a quick guide to what you can expect in New Jersey on Election Day.
Is Election Day a Federal Holiday?
No, Election Day is not a federal holiday, which means that many businesses and government offices across the country will operate as usual, though certain states, including New Jersey, treat it as a state holiday.
Is Election Day a State Holiday in New Jersey?
Yes, Election Day is a state holiday in New Jersey. As a result, most state agencies and offices will be closed on Tuesday, November 5. This includes state offices and the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC), so be sure to plan accordingly if you need any state services.
What’s Open on Election Day 2024 in New Jersey?
- Banks: While most state offices are closed, most major banks will remain open on Election Day. This includes large institutions like Bank of America, Capital One, PNC, Wells Fargo, and TD Bank. Expect normal operating hours unless otherwise noted by your specific branch.
- Post Offices: The U.S. Postal Service (USPS) will be operating as usual on Election Day. Post offices will be open and mail will be delivered on Tuesday, so you can expect regular postal services.
- Shipping Services: Major shipping services like UPS, FedEx, and Amazon will also operate as usual on Election Day. There should be no interruptions to their delivery schedules.
- Stock Market: Election Day is not a holiday for the stock market. U.S. stock exchanges, including the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) and the Nasdaq, will be open for regular trading hours.
What’s Closed on Election Day 2024 in New Jersey?
- New Jersey State Offices: Most state government offices in New Jersey will be closed for Election Day. This includes all state agencies, such as the Department of Motor Vehicles (MVC), which will also be closed.
- New Jersey Courts: New Jersey state courts will be closed for Election Day, although they will remain open for emergent matters and any previously scheduled hearings. Non-urgent court cases and services will be postponed.
- New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC): All MVC locations, including agencies, road test sites, and inspection stations, will be closed on Election Day in observance of the state holiday.
- Schools: Many school districts in New Jersey will be closed on Election Day, as it is a state holiday. Notably, districts such as Jersey City and Paramus have announced closures. However, whether or not schools are open depends on the district, so it’s best to check with your local school board for specific details. A list of districts and their status can be found on the New Jersey Department of Education’s website.
Where Do I Vote?
Polling locations will be open on Election Day to allow you to cast your ballot. To find your polling location for the 2024 election, simply visit the New Jersey Division of Elections’ polling place search tool at voter.svrs.nj.gov/polling-place-search and enter your address and ZIP code.
For more information on voting, including voter registration and early voting details, visit the New Jersey State Elections website at nj.gov/state/elections/vote.shtml.
In Summary:
- Open: Banks, post offices, shipping services (UPS, FedEx, Amazon), and the stock market will all be open on Election Day.
- Closed: New Jersey state offices, state courts (except for emergency matters), the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC), and many public schools will be closed.
- Polls: Polling places will be open for voters to cast their ballots.
As Election Day approaches, make sure you’re prepared not only to vote but also to navigate the day’s closures and open services. Whether you’re heading to the polls, running errands, or handling business, knowing what’s open and closed in advance can help you plan your day efficiently.
