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Elections – Voting Information

We want to make voting as simple and accessible as possible. Here’s everything you need to know before polling day.

Voting in Person

To vote at a polling station, you must bring one form of accepted photographic ID.

Accepted forms include:

• A passport (UK, Channel Islands, Isle of Man, British Overseas Territories, or eligible international passports)

• A driving licence (UK or EEA)

• A PASS card (Proof of Age Standards Scheme)

• A biometric immigration document

• Ministry of Defence ID (including veteran cards)

• A Blue Badge

• Older or disabled person’s bus passes

• Oyster 60+ card or Freedom Pass

• SmartPass (Northern Ireland)

• Electoral Identity Card (Northern Ireland)

• Other approved travel or concessionary cards

If you do not have an accepted form of photo ID, you can apply for a free Voter Authority Certificate.

Important:

Expired photo ID can still be used, as long as the photograph is still a good likeness of you (except for temporary Voter Authority Certificates).

You may also be asked to provide further proof of identity if there is any difference between your name and the name on your ID.

If You Cannot Attend in Person

You can still vote using one of the following options:

Vote by Post

Apply to vote by post if you cannot attend. Applications must be received before 5pm on 21 April 2026.

Vote by Proxy.

You can ask someone you trust to vote on your behalf. Applications must be received before 5pm on 28 April 2026.

Emergency Proxy Vote

If something unexpected happens (for example illness, work commitments, or your ID is lost, stolen, or delayed), you can apply for an emergency proxy vote up until 5pm on 7 May 2026.

Important Rules

To ensure elections remain fair:

• You can only vote once in each election

• You can only act as a proxy for a limited number of people

• You must be legally eligible to vote

Need Help?

If you need assistance, including information about accessibility at your polling station, please contact your local council.