The 2026 Census Test will be the first of two major field tests we conduct in preparation for the 2030 Census. The reference day for the test, called Census Day, will be April 1, 2026.

All major field tests require logistical commitment, such as dedicated office space and staff, that helps us evaluate how well the innovations we are planning will perform.

As we prepare for the 2030 Census, conducting testing like the 2026 Census Test gives us the opportunity to explore innovative technologies and methodologies to enhance our work to conduct a complete and accurate count of the nation.

What We Are Testing

The 2026 Census Test will study changes in six operational areas:

Self-Response
In-Field Enumeration
Group Quarters Enumeration
Communications, Partnerships, and Engagement
Cross Operational Support and Infrastructure
Near Real-Time Response Processing

These operational areas are being studied to ensure the operational viability of the new and enhanced processes and methods proposed for the 2030 Census.

•Communications, Partnerships, and Engagement

BLOG: Read about the innovations we are testing

Watch our 2026 Census Test Scope webinar for additional insights into the innovations we are testing.

We Are Focused on Hard-To-Count and Historically Undercounted Populations

Four of the six operational areas in our 2026 Census Test have proposed changes designed to directly or indirectly help us enumerate hard-to-count and historically undercounted populations.

We will explore new and improved ways to build trust and increase participation as part of our focus on accurately enumerating these populations during the next census.

Random Samplings Blog

Understanding Hard-to-Count and Historically Undercounted Populations

In a world driven by data, accurate population counts form the foundation for informed decision-making.

Director's Blog

Research Will Help Enumerate Undercounted People in the 2030 Census

The Census Bureau conducts research to develop better methods to reach and collect data from the historically hard to count.