New requirement for voters at elections 

News update

The Government has introduced a requirement for voters to show photo ID when voting at a polling station in some elections.

This new requirement will apply for many for the first time in England in May 2023.

Which forms of ID can I use 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 license)
  • Blue badge
  • Certain concessionary travel cards
  • Identity card with PASS mark (Proof of Age Standards Scheme)
  • Biometric Immigration document
  • Defence identity card
  • Certain national identity cards 

For more information on which forms of photo ID will be accepted, visit The Electoral Commission website or call their helpline on 0800 328 0280.

If you don’t already have an accepted form of photo ID, or you’re not sure whether your photo ID still looks like you, you can apply for a free voter ID document, known as a Voter Authority Certificate. You can apply for this by visiting the GOV.UK website.

Apply for photo ID to vote (called a ‘Voter Authority Certificate’)

Alternatively, you can complete a paper application form and send this to our Electoral Services team:

  • Electoral Services
    Civic Offices
    2 Watling Street
    Bexleyheath
    DA6 7AT

There are no scheduled elections in Bexley in 2023.

If you need any help with applying for a Voter Authority Certificate or want to request an application form, email elections.office@bexley.gov.uk