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. 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 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 for anyone who wants to have their photo ID viewed in private. Anyone arriving at the polling station without a form of accepted ID will be unable to vote.

Niki Nixon, Director of Communications at the Electoral Commission, said:

“If you’re going along to your polling station to vote on Thursday, don’t forget your photo ID, you’ll need to show it before you can be given your ballot paper. Check you have it with you before heading to the polling station, so that you don’t have to return later in the day. 

“If you lose your ID, or your Voter Authority Certificate does not arrive in time, you can appoint an emergency proxy to vote on your behalf. You will need to contact your council to arrange this before 5pm on election day, and the person you appoint will need their own acceptable photo ID.”

Polling stations will be open from 7am to 10pm. The full list of accepted ID, along with more information about the ID requirement, is available on the Electoral Commission’s website. 

From 1 May, HM Armed Forces Veteran Cards can also be used as voter ID. 

Voters can also use the Commission’s online postcode look-up tool to find their polling station. 

Ends

The Commission has spokespeople available to discuss the ID requirement and polling day. 
For more information contact the Electoral Commission press office on 020 7271 0704, out of office hours 07789 920 414 or [email protected]
 

  • The Electoral Commission is the independent body which oversees elections and regulates political finance in the UK. We work to promote public confidence in the democratic process and ensure its integrity by:
    • enabling the delivery of free and fair elections and referendums, focusing on the needs of electors and addressing the changing environment to ensure every vote remains secure and accessible
    • regulating political finance – taking proactive steps to increase transparency, ensure compliance and pursue breaches
    • using our expertise to make and advocate for changes to our democracy, aiming to improve fairness, transparency and efficiency
  • On Thursday 1 May 2025, 24 local authorities across England will be holding elections. There will also be four combined authority mayoral elections, two local authority mayoral elections, and one Parliamentary by-election in Runcorn and Helsby.