Voter I.D. - photo identification required at elections

The UK Government has introduced a requirement for voters to show photo identification 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.

Which forms of I.D. can I use to vote?

You may already have a form of photo I.D. that is acceptable.  You can use any of the following:

•           Passport

•           Driving licence (including provisional license)

•           Blue badge

•           Certain concessionary travel cards

•           Identity card with PASS mark (Proof of Age Standards Scheme)

•           Biometric Immigration document

•           Defence identity card

•           Certain national identity cards

Visit the Electoral Commission website for more information on which forms of photo ID will be accepted, or call their helpline on 0800 328 0280.

If you don’t have an accepted form photo ID

If you don’t already have an accepted form of photo I.D., or you’re not sure whether your photo I.D. still looks like you, you can apply for a free voter I.D. document, known as a Voter Authority Certificate. 

Alternatively, you can complete a paper application form and send this to the electoral services team at your local council.

Support to apply for a Voter Authority Certificate

If you need any help with applying for a Voter Authority Certificate or want to request an application form, contact us on 01530 454512 or email electreg@nwleicestershire.gov.uk 

Find out more

Please see our list of Voter I.D. Frequently Asked Questions for more information.

Visit the Electoral Commission website for more information, or call their helpline on 0800 328 0280.