New Photo ID Rules Hit UK Voters From May 4
The Government is cracking down on voting with a new rule: from 4 May, everyone voting in person must show photo ID at polling stations.
What You Need to Vote
When you turn up to vote, officials will check your name and address against the electoral register. Then, you’ll need to prove your identity with acceptable photo ID. It must match the name you registered under and clearly look like you—your photo ID can be expired but must be recognisable.
Here’s what counts as valid ID:
- Passport issued by the UK or Channel Islands
- Other accepted forms of photo ID (check official sources)
No Photo ID? No Problem
If you don’t have acceptable photo ID, or your photo doesn’t look like you, apply for a free Voter Authority Certificate. Visit the official site or pop into the Town Hall Customer Service Centre for help taking or uploading your photo, or to get a paper application form.
Postal Voters Stay Exempt
Good news if you vote by post: no ID changes for you this May. However, if you want to apply for a postal vote, make sure you submit your application by 5pm on Tuesday 18 April 2023.
Don’t risk being turned away at the polls—sort your ID now and make your voice heard!
