Deadline to apply for free photo ID is fast approaching ahead of the General Election
For the first time at a General Election, voters must show photo ID to receive their ballot paper and cast their vote in the polling stations. This must be the original document, and not a copy or ID on the mobile phone.
Anyone who doesn’t have an accepted form of ID can apply for a free voter authority certificate before the deadline of 5pm on Wednesday 26 June. This will enable them to vote in the General Election and the Leamington Clarendon Town Ward by-election on 4 July.
Apply online for a Voter Authority Certificate at https://www.gov.uk/apply-for-photo-id-voter-authority-certificate or by emailing Warwick District Council Electoral Services team at elections@warwickdc.gov.uk. Applicants must be registered to vote and will need to provide their date of birth, National Insurance number and a photograph.
Accepted forms of ID include a UK, European Economic Area (EEA) or Commonwealth passport; a UK or EEA driver’s licence; and some concessionary travel passes, such as an older person’s bus pass or an Oyster 60+ card. Voters will be able to use expired ID if they are still recognisable from the photo.
Chris Elliott, Returning Officer at Warwick District Council, said: “It is important that the residents of Warwick District use their vote in the General Election. I would encourage residents to check whether they have the correct ID as soon as possible, so that they do not miss the opportunity to apply for free photo ID. Our Electoral Services team will be available to help you with your application.”
Contact the Warwick District Council Electoral Services Team by phone on 01926 456105 or email elections@warwickdc.gov.uk.
Craig Westwood, Director of Communications, Policy and Research, said: “Photo ID is now a requirement to vote at polling stations at the General Election. If you do not have accepted ID, you can still apply for a Voter Authority Certificate, which is a free form of identification.
“The availability of free ID helps ensure elections remain accessible to all eligible voters. But it is crucial that anyone who needs one applies before the deadline. That date is fast approaching so don’t delay.”
Voters also have the option to vote by post or proxy. The deadline to apply for a postal vote is 5pm Wednesday 19 June, and the deadline for a proxy vote is 5pm Wednesday 26 June.
For information on elections in their area, how to register to vote or how to apply by post or by proxy, voters can visit www.warwickdc.gov.uk/generalelection2024.
