# Key information

Voter ID in the voting process

The introduction of Voter ID as a requirement has changed the way the voting process operates for the public.

The following voting options are affected:

In person

Postal

Proxy

Anonymous

# Voting at a polling station?

Voter ID changes voting in person

The Elections Act requires voters to show photo ID when voting in person at a polling station in some elections. The Voter ID rules are designed to prevent fraudsters casting a vote in someone else's name.

You must show photo ID when voting in person at a polling station in some elections. If you don't have a valid Voter ID, you won't be able to cast your vote.

Voters must appear on the electoral register. If you don't, register to vote now.

What happens at a polling station?

1

A poll clerk first checks that the voter is on the polling station register.

2

A photo ID is requested and checked for type, validity, likeness, and name match against the register.

3

If the ID is accepted, the voter receives their ballot paper and can cast their vote.

Voters who request private ID checks are accommodated in a sectioned-off area.

Accepted forms of photo ID Get a free Voter ID

Accepted forms of photo ID Get a free Voter ID

# Changed your name?

Name change requirements

The name on your Voter ID document must match your name on the Electoral Register.

If your name does not match your photo ID, you need to either:

register to vote again with your new name
bring a document to the polling station that proves you've changed your name, such as a marriage certificate or a deed poll.

Minor differences do not matter. For instance, if your Voter ID displays 'Bill Smith' instead of 'William Smith'.

# Voting by post?

Changes to postal voting

You can apply for a postal vote online or by post.

To apply for a postal vote, you will need to provide personal details including your address, National Insurance number and a signature. If you cannot provide a National Insurance number, or if more evidence is needed, you may be asked to upload identity documents such as a passport, driving licence or other supporting documents.

You can hold a postal vote for up to 3 years, after which you must reapply. Your Local Authority will write to you when it is time to renew.

Apply to vote by post

Apply to vote by post

Apply for a proxy vote

# Unable to vote in person?

Proxy voting and Voter ID

You can ask someone to vote on your behalf. This is called a proxy vote.

You can apply for a proxy vote under certain circumstances, including:

you are away on polling day
you are registered as an overseas voter
you have a disability or medical issue
you cannot vote in person due to work or military service

The Voter ID requirement applies to proxies voting at a polling station. Your proxy must show their own photo ID before they can cast your vote.

Choose a trustworthy proxy, as they will be voting on your behalf.

Apply for a proxy vote

# Voting anonymously?

Anonymous Elector's Document

You can register to vote anonymously if your safety, or the safety of someone in your home, would be at risk if your name or address were listed on the electoral register. Anonymous voters are listed at the polling station by their electoral number.

The Voter ID requirements mean anonymous voters must show the Anonymous Elector's Document along with their polling card when voting in person. The document contains a photograph and the person's electoral number which has to match the register being used in the polling station.

The deadline for applying for the document before an election is 5pm on the sixth working day before polling day. Anonymous registration lasts for 12 months and must be renewed each year.

Get Anonymous Elector's Document