Many people choose to vote in person. It is a quick and simple process and poll staff are always around to help.
How to vote in person
You will receive a poll card in the post telling you the address of where you need to vote. You will not be able to vote at another polling station.
Polling stations are open from 7am to 10pm. They are usually in a public building, such as a school or village hall.
You need to bring photo ID for some elections when you vote in person.
When you arrive at the polling station, there should be signs showing where to get your voting ballot paper. Your ballot paper is the piece of paper you use to cast your vote.
To check who you are and make sure you’re registered to vote, poll staff will ask you for:
- your name and address
- your photo ID for elections in England and some elections in Scotland and Wales
They may also ask for your poll card, which will have been sent to you, but it’s not a problem if you do not have it with you.
Asking for help
Poll staff are there to help you cast your vote independently, in secret, and in a calm atmosphere.
If you are worried about what support might be available at your polling station, you can contact the elections team at your local council before election day.
If you are struggling to understand what poll staff are asking you, you can ask them to write down their questions if that is helpful. You can also ask for a quiet space to talk. Some polling stations also have hearing loops.
Casting your vote
Once poll staff have found your name on the list, they will give you a ballot paper. You use this paper to cast your vote. This will look different depending on the election you are voting in.
Ballot paper
You can find instructions on your ballot paper on how to cast your vote. Your ballot paper looks the same if you vote by post or in person.
You will then be directed to the polling booth. This is a private area so people cannot see who you have voted for.
Take your time
Read everything on the ballot paper carefully, there is no time limit.
Mark your vote
In the polling booth, mark your choice on the ballot paper.
Cast your vote
Fold your ballot paper and place it into the large, clearly labelled box at the polling station.