Deadline to apply for free voter ID is fast approaching
Time to apply for free voter ID ahead of the May elections is running out.
Anyone who doesn’t already have an accepted form of photo ID will need to apply before the deadline at 5pm on 24 April.
Voters in Wirral will need to show photo ID to receive their ballot paper at the elections for a Mayor for the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority and a Merseyside Police and Crime Commissioner on Thursday 2 May.
Those without an accepted type of ID can apply online for a Voter Authority Certificate, at www.gov.uk/apply-for-photo-id-voter-authority-certificate.
Applicants must be registered to vote and will need to provide their date of birth, National Insurance number and a photograph.
Those that have an accepted form of photo ID already do not need to apply. Accepted forms of photo ID include a UK, European Economic Area (EEA) or Commonwealth passport; a UK or EEA driving licence; and some concessionary travel passes, such as an older person’s bus pass. Please note that Merseytravel Local Bus Passes are not a valid form of ID. A Merseytravel pass must say ‘Funded by HM Government’ to be valid.
Voters will be able to use expired photo ID if they are still recognisable from the photo.
Jackie Killeen, Director of Electoral Administration and Guidance at the Electoral Commission, said:
Voters will be required to show photo ID at polling stations at the May elections. The availability of free ID helps ensure elections remain accessible to all eligible voters. For those who don’t currently have the ID they need, it’s crucial they apply before the deadline so that they can cast their vote at the polling station. That date is fast approaching so don’t delay.
Paul Satoor, Local Returning Officer at Wirral Council, said:
As the deadline to apply for free ID looms, it is important that Wirral residents make sure they’re election ready. If you need any help applying for free photo ID or want to request an application form, you can contact the electoral services team by e-mail at electoral@wirral.gov.uk or tel. 0151 691 8046.
