1. Home
  2. Rugby residents need photo ID to vote at elections in May

Rugby residents need photo ID to vote at elections in May

FOR the first time, residents in Rugby need to show photographic ID to vote at polling stations in this year's local elections.
17 January 2023

And voters have been urged to make sure they have an accepted form of photo ID before polling day on 4 May.

Accepted forms of ID include:

  • UK, European Economic Area (EEA) and Commonwealth passports
  • UK, EEA and Commonwealth driving licences
  • specified concessionary travel passes, including older person's bus pass

Voters can use expired ID providing they can still be recognised from the photo.

Anyone who does not have one of the accepted forms of ID can apply for a free Voter Authority Certificate online at www.rugby.gov.uk/voterID or pick up an application form from the Town Hall.

The full list of accepted photo ID has been published on the Electoral Commission's website: www.electoralcommission.org.uk/voterID

Ailsa Irvine, the Electoral Commission's director of electoral administration and guidance, said: "Anyone voting at a polling station in England this May will need to show photo ID before they can be given a ballot paper.

"It's important everyone understands what types of ID they can use and how to apply for free ID if they need it."

Aftab Razzaq, Returning Officer for Rugby, said: "With elections taking place in May, it's important those who want to vote at a polling station make sure they have an accepted form of ID.

"It may seem early, but checking now means you'll be ready to vote on 4 May.

"Residents who do not have one of the accepted forms of ID can apply for free ID either online or by completing an application form and returning it to Rugby Borough Council'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."

Anyone who wants to vote in the May elections must also be registered to vote. You can register to vote at www.rugby.gov.uk/vote

The requirement to show photo ID at polling stations was introduced by the Government in the Elections Act 2022.

The council's electoral services team can be contacted on (01788) 533595 or by email: voterID@rugby.gov.uk