The UK Government has introduced a requirement for voters to show photo ID when voting at a polling station at some elections. This new requirement will apply for the first time in England at the local elections on Thursday 4 May 2023.
We know that some groups are more likely to experience barriers in preparing for this change and may need support to access photo ID. Anyone who does not have an existing form of accepted photo ID will be able to apply for a free voter ID document, which is known as a Voter Authority Certificate.
This guide is for staff and volunteers working at local authorities and charities in England who want to support those they work with to understand the change. It includes information on:
- Registering to vote
- Which forms of photo ID will be accepted
- Applying for a Voter Authority Certificate
- What voters can expect at the polling station
- Other ways to vote
Visit electoralcommission.org.uk/voterID or call 0800 328 0280 for more information.