Elections Voter ID
Voter ID Data
From 2023, rules were introduced requiring voters to produce photo ID to vote in a polling station. Please visit the Electoral Commission’s website for further information.
This applies to 4 May 2023 election, and sets out the publishable data relating to Voter ID.
This data is taken from the Voter Identification Evaluation Form (VIDEF) which records information relating to the voter identification of electors who requested a ballot paper.
| Type | Number |
|---|---|
| The total number of polling station electors who applied for, but were not issued with, a ballot paper (including wrong ID shown, no ID shown, and ID rejected). | 94 |
| The number of polling station electors who were not issued with a ballot paper and who later returned with accepted ID and were issued with a ballot paper. | 80 |
| The number of polling station electors who applied for, but were not issued with, a ballot paper by close of poll. | 14 |
Commonly used ID
- Passport issued by the UK, any of the Channel Islands, the Isle of Man, a British Overseas Territory, an EEA state or a Commonwealth country
- Photographic driver’s licence issued by the UK, Channel Islands, the Isle of Man, or an EEA state (including provisional)
- European Economic Area (EEA) photographic ID Card
- UK Biometric Residence Permit
- An identity card bearing the Proof of Age Standards Scheme hologram (PASS card)*
- A Blue Badge
- Oyster 60+ Card
- A concessionary travel pass funded by HM Government or local authority (Kent County Council Bus Pass; Disabled Person's Bus Pass, Welsh or Northern Ireland travel card)
PLEASE NOTE: Only original documents are accepted; scanned images, electronic versions or copies will not be accepted - however expired documents are accepted if the photo is still a current likeness.
Voter ID FAQs
What if my appearance has changed on my photo ID?
If you look totally different on your ID, we recommend that you apply for Voter Authority Certificate before the deadline (by 5pm on Tuesday 25 April 2023) to prevent you from not being able to vote.
Can I use a poll card as ID?
No, it must be an approved form of photographic ID.
What happens if I forget or lose my ID on the day?
Apart from Voter Authority Certificate holders, all other electors will have to leave the polling station to find their ID or get another form of ID. If you do not have anything else to prove your identity you will be unable to vote.
My name is different on my photo ID to the electoral register, what should I do?
If in any doubt about whether your identification will be accepted, please talk to a member of the elections team for clarification on 01322 343501.
I don’t want to risk losing my ID, can I bring a photocopy?
Whatever form of ID you bring must be the original, no copies or electronic versions will be accepted.
What if I lose my Voter Authority Certificate?
We recommend you keep your Voter Authority Certificate as safe as you would any other form of official identification. However, if this happens please call us on 01322 343501.
Can I use an expired driving licence or passport?
Yes, as long as the photo is still a good likeness.
My passport and driving licence show the wrong address, is this ok?
Yes, as long as the photo is still a good likeness. The photo ID is to check your identity not your address.
I would like my identity checked in private, is this possible?
Yes, all polling stations will have procedures in place for electors who wish to have their identity checked in private.