On election day, the conduct of the election at the precinct polling place is administered by election judges whose appointment is confirmed by the circuit court. The judges ensure that only registered voters cast ballots, that each voter receives the correct ballot, and provide assistance to illiterate and disabled voters. The duties and responsibilities of election judges are more fully discussed in the judge's manual.

The location of polling places in Illinois are approved by the county board or board of election commissioners. The list of polling places is published prior to election day in a newspaper of general circulation. Many local election authorities also post polling place information on their websites. The majority of polling places in Illinois are accessible to the physically disabled voter. Check each jurisdiction's history on accessibility.