The process for voting on Dancing with the Stars is simple and provides fans with two easy methods to support their favorite couples.
Viewers can vote either online or via text message during the live broadcast.
It’s crucial to remember that voting is only open during the live show in the Eastern and Central time zones.
Any votes cast after the window closes will not be counted.
1. Online Voting (U.S., its territories, and Canada)
This is the most common and flexible way to vote. You can cast up to 10 votes for each couple per episode.
Steps:
- Visit the official voting website: dwtsvote.abc.com.
- You will be prompted to either sign in to your ABC account or create a new one. Creating an account is free and only requires an email address.
- Once logged in, you will see a list of the competing couples.
- Select the couples you wish to vote for and distribute your 10 votes as you see fit. You can give all 10 votes to one couple or split them among multiple couples.
- Click the “Save Votes” button to submit your choices. You can change your vote distribution at any time before the voting window closes.
2. SMS Text Voting (U.S. and its territories only)
This method is quick and easy, but it is less flexible than online voting. You can cast up to 10 votes for each couple per episode.
Steps:
- During the live show, a specific keyword (usually the celebrity’s first name) will be displayed on the screen for each couple.
- Open the text messaging app on your phone.
- Send a text message with the celebrity’s unique keyword to the number 21523.
- Each text message counts as one vote. You will receive a confirmation text after your first vote is received.
Important Note: Unlike online voting, once you send a text vote, it cannot be canceled or changed. Standard message and data rates may apply.
Key Voting Rules to Remember
- Voting Window: The voting period is limited to the live broadcast on ABC in the Eastern and Central time zones. The window opens at 8 p.m. ET and closes after the final competitive dance of the night.
- Total Votes: You can cast up to 20 votes per couple each week—10 via the online method and 10 via the SMS text method.
- Eligibility: To vote, you must be 18 years or older and located in the United States, its territories, or Canada (online voting only).
- Judges’ Scores: Your votes are combined with the judges’ scores to determine which couple is eliminated each week. The couple with the lowest combined total is sent home.
Last modified: September 17, 2025
