From 4th May this year voters will need to show a valid photo ID to vote. Initially these new rules will only apply in local elections but from October 2023 they will also apply to UK General elections.
This year on 4th May we have local elections here in North Somerset, so it's important that you check to see whether you have a valid form of photo ID. Accepted forms of photo ID will include a UK passport or driving license. You don't need photo ID to vote by post.
There are lots of other forms of photo ID that are valid. These include a blue badge and some bus passes. However, it's important that you check to make sure that the ID you intend to use qualifies. A full list of accepted ID can be found on the Electoral Commission website.
Please check that the name on your ID corresponds with that on your polling card (when it arrives). Different names will likely mean you will be turned away from the polling station. However, the Electoral Commission has stated that it doesn't matter if your photo ID is out of date, as long as it looks like you.
It is estimated that a small number of us, a few thousand across North Somerset, will not have any valid 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, on gov.uk. Alternatively, if you don't have online access then please call the electoral registration team at North Somerset Council on 1934 634 909 and they will arrange for a paper application form to be sent to you.
The deadline to apply for a Voter Authority Certificate for this years local elections on is 5pm on Tuesday 25th April 2023. Please remember that you need to be registered to vote before you apply for a Voter Authority Certificate.
The deadline to register to vote in the local elections on 4th May 2023 is 11:59pm on Monday 17th April.
If you haven't registered, then you can find out more on either the electoral commissions website, on gov.uk, or if you don't have online access by calling North Somerset Council on 01934 634 909.
Disclaimer: This is a general article designed to highlight the new rules around voter ID. Although every effort has been made to ensure accuracy it ultimately remains an individual's responsibility to check whether or not they are registered to vote and hold a valid ID. Thank you.
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Published and promoted by Ashley Cartman for and on behalf of the North Somerset Liberal Democrats, 10 Fenshurst Gardens, Long Ashton, BS41 9AR.