7 May elections – the rules on voter ID

You may have heard that some voters will need to bring identification to be able to vote in elections on 7 May. We look at the requirements in England, Wales and Scotland.

On 7 May these elections are taking place:

  • Local government elections
  • Scottish Parliament elections
  • Senedd Cymru elections
  • Mayoral elections in England.

It is important that you have your say and vote for the candidate who best reflects your values.

You need to show photo ID to vote at polling stations in some elections.

Voters in Scotland do not need to show photo ID at Scottish Parliament elections or at council elections.

Voters in Wales do not need to show photo ID to vote at a polling station at Senedd elections or local council elections.

In England, you need to show photo ID to vote at polling stations.

You only need to show one form of photo ID. It needs to be the original version, not a photocopy.

You can use any of the following:

  • a passport
  • photocard driving licence
  • a Blue Badge
  • Older Person’s Bus Pass
  • Disabled Person’s Bus Pass
  • 60+ London Oyster Photocard
  • Freedom Pass
  • PASS
  • eVisa,
  • Defence Identity Card
  • HM Armed Forces Veteran Card
  • voter authority certificate
  • And anonymous elector's document.

For more information on accepted forms of voter ID see the Electoral Commission web page.

What if I don’t have an accepted form of ID?

If you don't have an accepted form of photo ID you can apply for a free voter ID document, known as a voter authority certificate, or if you're not sure whether your photo ID still looks like you. Or also if you're worried about using an existing form of ID for any other reason, such as the use of a gender marker.

You can apply online for a voter authority certificate.

You need to register to vote (Opens in new window) before applying for a voter authority certificate.

The deadline to apply for free voter ID for the elections on 7 May is 5pm on 28 April.

If you arrive at a polling station without an accepted form of photo ID, you will be asked to return with ID that is accepted.

Polling stations will display the list of accepted photo ID and polling station staff will be trained on what types of ID are accepted.

This article is published in English but can be translated easily into Welsh using the Recite Me toolbar on this website.