Information for voters

If you have a disability, you can find information on voting in elections and how to get further support on our information for voters with a disability page.

How can I register to vote?

To vote in local, general, European elections or referendums, you need to register to vote and be listed on the electoral register.

To register to vote or update your details on the electoral register, visit the national GOV.UK website.

If you want to check whether you are on the electoral register, or if you are not registered, you need to contact the electoral registration officer at the main district council office which serves the area where you live. You can find out who your local council is by visiting the GOV.UK website.

Do I need to take photo ID with me to vote?

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

There are a number of accepted forms of photo ID and you can find out more by visiting the Electoral Commission website.

Where do I go to vote in person?

Before an election you will usually receive a polling card which will tell you where to vote. If you are not sure about which is your polling station contact your district council.

Can I vote by post?

Yes, anyone who is registered to vote can apply for a postal vote.

If you want to vote by post:

contact your district council and ask for a form.

If you register to vote by post you will receive a postal vote pack shortly before an election. The pack will include your ballot paper, an envelope for the ballot paper and a statement which you need to sign and return.

Can someone else vote on my behalf and is this called proxy voting?

If you cannot attend the polling station you can appoint someone else to vote on your behalf – a proxy. If you want to nominate a proxy you have to complete a form on the GOV.UK website and return it to your local elections office. Contact your district or borough council for details.