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Get registered and check your photo ID for May elections

Don't forget you need Voter ID for May 4 elections

For the first time, residents in Plymouth will need to show photographic ID to vote in person at this year’s local elections which are being held on 4 May.

Accepted forms of ID include a UK, European Economic Area (EEA) or Commonwealth passport; a full or provisional UK, EEA or Commonwealth drivers’ licence; some concessionary travel passes, such as an older person’s bus pass and a blue badge.

Anyone who does not have one of the accepted forms of ID can now apply for free Voter Authority Certificate online or by completing a paper form which is available from the Council. The deadline to apply for this ID is 25 April 2023.

Anyone who wants to vote in the local elections this May, must be registered to vote by the 17 April 2023. If you aren't already registered it only takes five minutes to register online. Voters wishing to apply to their council for free ID should first make sure they are registered to vote. 

The key dates to remember are:

  • Deadline to register to vote: 17 April 2023
  • Deadline to apply or change a postal vote: 18 April 2023
  • Deadline to apply for Voter ID certificate: 25 April 2023
  • Deadline to apply for a proxy vote: 25 April 2023

More information on registering to vote, what voter ID will be accepted or how to apply for a free Voter Authority Certificate is available on the Plymouth City Council website. Anyone not able to visit the Council website, or apply for a Voter Authority Certificate online, can contact the Council by calling 01752 304866 or emailing: ero@plymouth.gov.uk 

Tracey Lee, Returning Officer for Plymouth, said: “Anyone voting at a polling station in England this May will need to show photo ID before they can be given their ballot paper. It’s important that everyone understands what types of ID they can use, and how to apply for free ID if they need it. 

“With elections taking place in Plymouth on 4 May 2023, it is important that those who want to vote make sure they are registered to vote and have an accepted form of ID. It may seem early but checking now means you will be ready to vote in May. 

“Residents who do not have one of the accepted forms of ID can apply for free ID either online or by completing a paper application form which is available by calling 01752 304866.”

Voters will be able to use expired ID as long as the photo remains a good enough likeness to the elector, and the name on the ID is the same name as appears on the Electoral Register.

The changes do not affect postal votes but do affect proxy voters who will be required to show their own valid ID when voting on behalf of someone else.