Voters Urged To Bring Photo ID To Polling Stations

Voters are being reminded to bring an accepted form of photo ID with them when heading to the polls for May’s local elections.

Under current rules, anyone voting in person must show photo identification before they can receive their ballot paper.

Accepted forms include a passport, driving licence, older person’s or disabled person’s bus pass, or a free Voter Authority Certificate.

The Electoral Commission says expired ID can still be used, as long as the voter remains recognisable in the photo.

Polling station staff will check ID on arrival, and a private area will be available for anyone who wishes to have this done discreetly.

Anyone who turns up without valid ID will not be able to vote.

Research by the Electoral Commission suggests awareness remains low, with more than half of people unaware they can apply for a free Voter Authority Certificate through their local council.

Niki Nixon, Director of Communications and External Affairs, is urging people to prepare in advance.

She said:

“If you’re planning on voting, you’ll need an accepted form of photo ID.

"If you don’t have one, there is still time to apply for a free Voter Authority Certificate through your local council. Don’t risk being turned away at the polling station.”

The deadline to apply for a free certificate is 5pm on Tuesday 28 April, ahead of polling day on Thursday 7 May.

Photo ID is required for local and mayoral elections in England, but not for elections to the Senedd or Scottish Parliament taking place on the same day.