Baltimore needs election judges!

You can make a difference and support your community by becoming an election judge! Get ready for the 2026 elections - and plan to be involved to support Baltimore!

 Frequently Asked Questions about being an Election Judge

What’s the difference between a Poll worker and An election judge?

There’s no difference! The two terms mean the same thing and are used interchangeably.

What does an election judge do?

Election judges will take on different roles. Some of the work they will do include checking in voters, assisting voters with disabilities use accessible ballot marking devices, handing out “I voted” stickers, and more. All judges must support the opening of their assigned polling site on Election Day (you must arrive no later than 5:45am).

All Election Judges serve the entire day (breaks provided as available for meals) and are responsible for the closing of the polling site. Election Judges are dismissed by their Chief Judge (typically between 8:30pm - 9:30pm, depending on the ability to complete all required tasks).

What are Eligibility Requirements to serve as an election judge in Baltimore?

Election Judges must be at least 16 years of age, registered (or pre-registered) to vote in Maryland, able to read and write English, and complete required training by the Board of Elections.

What is a Chief Judge, and am i eligible to serve as one?

Each voting site is to be staffed with two Chief Judges (from various political parties). These individuals have the experience and capability to serve as the leader of an entire polling site. Some Chief Judges have served as Election Judges in the past and are elevated to Chief — and others have leadership experience that allows them to serve immediately as a Chief. Baltimore City frequently is in need of Chief Judges from the Republican, Independent, and third-parties to increase the ability to place two Chiefs in each polling place.

Chief Judges are responsible for an additional training, and on election day oversee the full operations of the Election. They are responsible for managing the Election Judges assigned to their polling site and for communicating with the Board of Elections throughout the day.

Individuals with experience managing people, processes, and working with the public are needed to ensure all sites run effectively.

why are Election judges important?

It is crucial that we support elections as citizens who are willing to serve as Election Judges and Chief Judges. Election Judges are who makes the election run on Election Day! When polling sites are adequately staffed and trained, sites run more efficiently and effectively. The wait time for voters is reduced and election reporting is more timely.

Will I get paid?

Yes! The Baltimore City Board of Elections pays Election Judges who arrive to their polling site on time and remain until dismissed that evening by their Chief Judge. In the 2026 elections, the Board will provide a stipend of $250 - $325, depending on your role on Election Day. Please note, the Board provides these payments 4-6 weeks after Election Day. Judges are not paid on Election Day.

Tell me more about the training.

You will need to attend a 3.5-hour in-person training class before working at the polls. In a typical year, there will be trainings offered in the weeks leading up to the election with times offered during the days and some weekday, evening options as well.

Those who are interested in and qualified for service as a Chief Judge will need to complete two training sessions if they have not previously served as an Election Judge in Baltimore City. Those who complete the training and serve on Election Day will receive a small stipend for their training time.

Got a question that isn’t covered here?

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