Remember to bring your photo ID to vote

Voters across England are being urged to remember their ID when they go to the polling station tomorrow.

Voters will need to show photo ID at polling stations before they can receive their ballot paper. This is a new requirement introduced by the UK Government that comes into effect for the first time at tomorrow’s local elections.

Accepted forms of ID include a UK, European Economic Area (EEA) or Commonwealth passport; a UK or EEA drivers’ licence; some concessionary travel passes, such as an older person’s bus pass or an Oyster 60+ card; and the new free Voter Authority Certificate. Voters will be able to use expired ID if they are still recognisable from the photo.

Voters will be required to present ID which will be checked by polling station staff. A private area will be available at the polling station so a voter can choose to have their photo ID viewed in private.

Craig Westwood, Director of Communications, Policy and Research at the Electoral Commission, said:

“Anyone voting at a polling station in England will need to show photo ID before they can be given their ballot paper. Before you head to the polling station, don’t forget to check your bag, wallet, or pocket to make sure you have the ID you need to vote.

“Polling stations will be open from 7AM to 10PM. If you don’t remember your ID when you arrive at a polling station, you can return with it later in the day.”

The full list of accepted ID, along with more information about the new requirement, is available on the Electoral Commission’s website. If voters lose their ID, or their Voter Authority Certificate does not arrive in time for election day, they can appoint an emergency proxy to vote on their behalf up until 5pm on election day. The person appointed as a proxy must have their own acceptable photo ID.

Information on the elections and a postcode look-up tool to help voters find their polling station is available on the Electoral Commission website.

Ends

For more information contact the Electoral Commission press office on 020 7271 0704, or [email protected]

Notes to editors

  • The requirement to show photo ID at the polling station is a new requirement, introduced by the UK Government’s Elections Act which was passed last year.
  • The UK Government’s Department for Levelling up, Housing and Communities is responsible for the new voter ID policy and for the free voter ID application system. Enquiries relating the policy itself should be directed to the Department.
  • The Electoral Commission is responsible for ensuring voters are aware of the new voter ID requirement, and for supporting local authorities with the process. Questions related to the public awareness campaign should be directed to the Electoral Commission.
  • Local authorities are responsible for implementing voter ID at the local level.