Voter ID at polling stations

To cast your vote at a polling station in any election you need to show an accepted form of photographic identification. This is a result of the introduction of the Elections Act.

Accepted forms of photo ID for voting at a polling station

On election day you need to show one form of photographic ID to staff at the polling station.

It needs to be the original version and not a scanned image or photocopy. You cannot use a picture of the document on your phone. If you have acceptable photo ID which is out of date, you can still use it if the photo still looks like you. You can use any of the following:

• a passport
• a driving licence - including provisional licence
• a Blue Badge
• an older person’s bus pass (it must state it is funded by the government - local travel passes cannot be used - see travel pass guidance for more information
• a disabled person’s bus pass
• an identity card with Proof of Age Standards Scheme (PASS) mark
• a biometric immigration document
• a defence identity card
• certain national identity cards

View the full list of accepted photo ID on the Electoral Commission website.

How to apply for a free Voter Authority Certificate

If you do not have photo ID from the accepted list above, you can apply for a free Voter Authority Certificate on GOV.UK. To apply you will need:

• a recent, digital photo of yourself
• your National Insurance number

You will need to be registered to vote before you apply for a Voter Authority Certificate.

If you are not able to apply online or want a paper application form, please call 0151 233 3028 or email elections@liverpool.gov.uk.

Do postal voters need photo ID?

No, if you vote by post you do not need to provide photo ID for the July 2024 General Election. Find out more about postal voting.

Further information

More information on voter ID can be viewed on the Electoral Commission website.