Residents in Surrey Heath are being reminded they will need to show photographic ID to vote at their local polling station in the General Election on 4 July.
To make sure they are ready to vote in July, it is recommended people check they have an accepted form of photo ID.
Accepted forms of photo ID include a UK or other relevant passport; drivers’ licence; and an older person’s bus pass or an Oyster 60+ card. Voters will be able to use these accepted forms of photo ID, even if they have expired, but only if they are still recognisable from the photo.
Only an original version of the accepted photo ID will be accepted - scanned images or copies can’t be used.
Anyone who does not have one of the accepted forms of photo ID can apply for a free voter authority certificate online at the government website or by completing a paper application form. If you need any help with applying for this in Surrey Heath or want to request an application form, please email vote@surreyheath.gov.uk or call 01276 707165.
The certificate is free of charge, valid for at least 10 years and can be used for all elections. The deadline to apply before the July election is 5pm on Wednesday 26 June 2024. To apply for a VAC, applicants must be registered to vote, and will need to provide their date of birth, National Insurance number, and a photograph with their VAC application.
Postal votes are becoming increasingly popular given their convenience, and you will not need to use photo ID if you vote by post, as other ways to verify your identity are used. You can apply for a postal vote online. Alternatively contact our team at vote@surreyheath.gov.uk or call 01276 707165.
The full list of accepted photo ID is available on the Electoral Commission’s website, along with more information about the requirement.
Damian Roberts, Surrey Heath Acting Returning Officer, said: “Your vote is important – so please check if you have an accepted form of photo ID. Checking now means you will be ready to vote in the General Election in July.”