From May 2023, the UK government will require voters to show photo ID at the polling station.
This new requirement will be enforced for the first time in Plymouth at the local elections on Thursday 4 May 2023. Voter ID statistics for the elections held on 4 May 2023 can be found here
The requirement applies to all local elections and referendums.
Photo ID that can be used to vote
You may already have a form of photo ID that is acceptable. You can use any of the following:
- Passport
- Driving licence (including provisional licence)
- Blue badge
- Certain concessionary travel cards
- Identity card with PASS mark (Proof of Age Standards Scheme)
- Older Person’s Bus Pass
- Disabled Person’s Bus Pass
- Identity card bearing the Proof of Age Standards Scheme hologram (a PASS card)
- Biometric Immigration document
- Defence identity card
- Certain national identity cards
Expired photographic identification documents can still be used as accepted photographic ID at the polling station, as long as the photograph is still a good likeness of the elector.
For more information on which forms of photo ID will be accepted:
- visit the Electoral Commission
- call: 0800 328 0280
Don’t have an accepted form of photo ID
You can apply for photo ID to vote (Voter Authority Certificate) if you:
- don't have an accepted form of photo ID
- are not sure your photo ID still looks like you
You must provide a suitable photograph with your application.
The Voter Authority Certificate can only be used as proof of identity for voting.
Apply online
Apply via a paper application form
Before you request a paper application form you must be registered to vote. Check if you are registered by calling 01752 304866 or apply here.
You can complete a paper Voter Authority Certificate application form. Send the completed form, together with a suitable photograph, to the Electoral Services Team at Ballard House, West Hoe Road, Plymouth, PL1 3BJ.
Find out more
If you have any questions or would like to find out more:
- visit the Electoral Commission
- call: 0800 328 0280