Residents in Wrexham will need to show photographic ID to vote in local elections on May 2. Residents are being urged to make sure they are ready to vote by checking they have an accepted form of ID.
Accepted forms of ID include a UK, European Economic Area (EEA) or Commonwealth passport or drivers’ 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.
You can find out more about suitable forms of photo ID in this video:
Anyone who doesn’t have one of the accepted forms of ID will be able to apply for free ID online at www.voter-authority-certificate.service.gov.uk/ or by completing a paper form.
The full list of accepted ID is available on the Electoral Commission’s website, along with more information about the new requirement and details of how to apply for the free ID, at electoralcommission.org.uk/voterID.
Jackie Killeen, Director of Electoral Administration and Guidance, said:
“Anyone voting at a polling station will need to show photo ID before they can be given their ballot paper. It’s important that everyone understands what types of ID they can use, and how to apply for free ID if they need it. You can find information about the new requirement and what to expect at the polling station, on the Electoral Commission’s website.”
Ian Bancroft, Returning Officer at Wrexham Council, said:
“With elections taking place in Wrexham on May 2, 2024, it is important that those who want to vote make sure they have an accepted form of ID. It may seem early but checking now means you will be ready to vote in May.
“Residents who do not have one of the accepted forms of ID can apply for free ID either online or by completing a paper application form and sending this to Wrexham’s electoral services team. If you need any help with applying for the free ID or want to request an application form, contact the electoral services team on email electoral@wrexham.gov.uk or call 01978 292020.”
The rules around delivering your postal votes have changed this year, read How do you vote if you can’t get to the polling station? to find out more.
Anyone who wants to have their say in the elections this May must also be registered to vote. It only takes five minutes to register online at www.gov.uk/register-to-vote. Voters wishing to apply to their council for free ID should first make sure they are registered to vote. The deadline to register to vote for this election is April 16, 2024.