How to register and vote at elections

From 4 May 2023 voters will need to show photo ID to vote at the polling station.

This will apply to: Local elections, Police and Crime Commissioner elections, UK Parliamentary by-elections and Recall petitions. 
From October 2023 it will also apply to UK General elections.

Acceptable forms of ID

You may already have an accepted form of photo ID such as a passport or a driving licence. These do not need to be in date, but the photo must still be a good likeness of you.

A list of the accepted forms of photo ID can be found on the Electoral Commission (opens new window) website.

If you do not have ID

If you do not already have an accepted form of photo ID you can apply for a Voter Authority Certificate (VAC).

You can apply online https://www.gov.uk/apply-for-photo-id-voter-authority-certificate (opens new window) or download the application form (opens new window) and post it to us using the contact details at the end of this page. 

If you would like us to post you an application call us on 0300 456 0112.

My photo ID doesn't look like me any more

If your photo ID no longer looks like you can apply for a Voter Authority Certificate (opens new window).

I vote by post

If you have a postal vote in place you do not need Voter ID.

I vote by proxy

If your proxy votes on your behalf at the polling station they will be asked to show their photo ID. Your proxy will not be asked to show any ID in your name.