Government Slaps Photo ID Rule on Voters from 4 May
Big change at the ballot box! From 4 May, everyone voting in polling stations must show a valid photo ID. No ID, no vote.
What You Need to Vote: Acceptable Photo ID
When you turn up to vote, you’ll be asked for your name and address exactly as on the electoral register. Then, you must prove your identity with an accepted form of photo ID. This can include:
- UK or Channel Islands passport
Make sure the name on your ID matches your registered name. Your photo ID can be out of date but must clearly resemble you.
No Photo ID? No Problem… Sort It Free!
Don’t panic if you don’t have an acceptable ID or your photo doesn’t look like you. You can apply for a free Voter Authority Certificate. Just head to the official site or visit the Town Hall’s Customer Service Centre where staff will help you take and upload a photo or fill out a paper form.
Postal Voters, You’re Safe—for Now
If you vote by post, nothing changes this May. No photo ID needed. But if you want to switch to postal voting, remember the deadline: 5pm on Tuesday 18 April 2023.
