Tyler, Texas — A record 13.64 million Texans have registered to vote in the November 6 general election. The state has about 18.2 million people of voting age.

Early voting begins today across Texas and will run through November 2. Voting officials will not require a photo identification card from people who bring their voter registration certificates to the polling place. Registered voters without their certificates may use other proof of identity to cast a ballot.

Although a lot of people try to cast their votes early to avoid the long lines and waits at the polls on election day, that wasn't the case today. The downtown Tyler, Smith County Courthouse Annex voting location was very congested.

On average the early voters told KETK that the wait was around 20 - 25 minutes.

Karen Nelson, Smith County Elections Administrator, says a good way to avoid the early lines is to come on the weekend when they are usually slow, Nelson says, "If the voters could remember, we are open 7 a.m.. to 7 p.m.. on Saturday and Sunday 1 - 6, that would help them out because the following week will defiantly be a huge turn out."

Nelson also reminded voters to bring their voter registration card to the polls, or if they don't have that they can bring one of the following forms of identification:

• Drivers License
• State I.D..
• Work Badge with picture
• Passport
• Utility bill with name and address

Nelson also urged, if voters plan on voting by mail, the deadline to do so is October, 30.