Voter ID
What is voter ID?
You must show photo ID to vote at a polling station. This applies to all elections in England, including:
- parliamentary elections
- local elections
- Police and Crime Commissioner elections
- referendums
Accepted forms of photo ID
Most people already have an accepted form of photo ID. You can use any of these, even if they have expired:
- Passport issued by the UK, any British Overseas Territory, a European Economic Area (EEA) state, or a Commonwealth country.
- Driving licence (including provisional) issued by the UK, Channel Islands, the Isle of Man, or an EEA state.
- Blue Badge.
- Older Person's Bus Pass (Gold Card in Derby and Derbyshire).
- Disabled Person's Bus Pass.
- Armed Forces Veterans Card.
- PASS card (Proof of Age Standards Scheme).
- Biometric immigration document.
- Identity card issued by an EEA state.
- Voter Authority Certificate.
View the full list of accepted ID on the Government website.
Free Voter ID (Voter Authority Certificate)
If you don't have any accepted photo ID, you can apply for a free Voter Authority Certificate. This is a photo ID card that can only be used for voting.
To apply complete the Voter Authority Certificate online application or contact us for a paper application form. You must apply at least six working days before an election to receive your certificate in time.
Important information about Voter ID
- Proxy voters must show their own photo ID when voting on someone else's behalf.
- You don't need photo ID to vote by post.
- Your photo ID must show a reasonable likeness to you.
- The name on your ID should match your name on the electoral register. If you have changed your name recently please bring supporting evidence (such as a marriage, civil partnership or deed poll certificate) with you to the polling station.
Frequently asked questions
What if I forget my ID on election day?
You won't be able to vote without acceptable photo ID. You can return to the polling station later with your ID.
What if I don't want to show ID?
You can choose to vote by post instead. Postal voters don't need to show photo ID.
Can I use an expired ID?
Yes, you can use expired ID as long as the photo is still a good likeness of you.
How long does it take to get a Voter Authority Certificate?
It takes at least five working days for your certificate to arrive. During busy periods before elections, it may take longer. We recommend applying early to ensure you receive it in time.
Do I need to update my Voter Authority Certificate if I move house?
No, you can continue to use your certificate at your new address as long as the photo remains a good likeness.
Recent Voter ID data
In the July 2024 Parliamentary Election:
Derby North
- 75 voters initially arrived without acceptable ID
- 58 returned with ID and were able to vote
- 17 were unable to vote due to not returning with acceptable ID
- 52.35% polling station turnout
Derby South
- 185 voters initially arrived without acceptable ID
- 138 returned with ID and were able to vote
- 47 were unable to vote due to not returning with acceptable ID
- 46.83% polling station turnout
Mid Derbyshire (Derby area)
- 21 voters initially arrived without acceptable ID
- 15 returned with ID and were able to vote
- 6 were unable to vote due to not returning with acceptable ID
- 60.95% polling station turnout