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Voter ID

Voters are now required to show photo identification (ID) when voting at a polling station at some elections.

This applies to:

  • UK parliamentary elections, including general elections and by-elections
  • district council elections and by-elections
  • Police and Crime Commissioner elections

Forms of ID you can use to vote

You may already have a form of photo ID that is acceptable. You can use any of the following:

  • passport
  • driving licence (including provisional license)
  • blue badge
  • certain concessionary travel cards
  • identity card with PASS mark (Proof of Age Standards Scheme)
  • biometric immigration document
  • defence identity card
  • certain national identity cards

For more information on which forms of photo ID will be accepted, visit The Electoral Commission or call their helpline on 0800 328 0280.

If you don’t have photo ID

If you do not already have an accepted form of photo ID, or you’re not sure whether your photo ID still looks like you, you can apply for a free voter ID document, known as a Voter Authority Certificate.

The deadline to apply for a Voter Authority Certificate for the local elections on Thursday 2 May is 5pm on Wednesday 24 April 2024.

If you do not apply before 5pm on Wednesday 24 April 2024, you will not be able to apply for a Voter Authority Certificate to use at the elections in May 2024.

Alternatively you can complete a paper application form and send it to us. To request an application form, or if you need help with applying, contact us.

Video about using photo ID to vote

More information

If you have any questions or would like to find out more, go to The Electoral Commission.