Some UK elections require you to show photo ID when you vote. You can check which elections you need ID for.
You only need one form of photo ID, but there are a few important things to remember:
- Your photo ID must be the original version. It cannot be a photocopy.
- The name on your ID should be the same as the one you used to register to vote.
- If you have changed your name, you need to register to vote again.
- If you have changed your name but missed the deadline to re-register to vote, you need to bring a document that proves you have changed your name e.g. a marriage certificate.
- You can use an out-of-date photo ID if the photo still looks like you.
- The address on the ID does not need to be your current address.
Accepted photo ID
You can use one of a wide range of photo ID when voting in person in England, Scotland or Wales. View all forms of accepted photo ID.
The list of accepted ID for voting in Northern Ireland is different.
The good news is you can still vote, you just have to apply for an alternative voter ID document.
In England, Scotland and Wales you can apply for a free Voter Authority Certificate to use as your voter ID.
In Northern Ireland, you can apply for an Electoral Identity Card.
These things happen, and there are still ways to vote. If you miss the deadline to apply for a free Voter Authority Certificate, you can apply for an emergency proxy vote from 5pm, 6 working days before election day, and 5pm on the election day.