Frequently asked questions about the Voter ID requirements for Voter Authority Certificates can be found below.

Frequently asked questions

Why would I need a Voter Authority Certificate?

If you do not have any of the accepted photo ID, and you want to vote at the polling station, you will need to apply for a free Voter Authority Certificate. This is a free photographic identification document specific for the purposes of voting.

How do I apply?

You will be able to apply for a Voter Authority Certificate in person, by post or online through GOV.UK. We recommend that you apply for a Voter Authority Certificate in good time.

Voters who do not produce a Voter Authority Certificates, or valid photo identification will not be allowed to vote on the day.

You can apply for a Voter Authority Certificate through the GOV.UK website by clicking on the link below.

Apply online for Voter Authority Certificate

Alternatively, an application form is available to download: Application form for Voter Authority Certificate (PDF Document, 0.2 Mb). We will accept scanned copies of applications for Voter Authority Certificates via our online contact form. Paper applications may also be posted or handed in to the Council Offices.

Alternatively, if you would like a paper copy of the application form sent to you in the post, please contact the elections team online or call 01509 634546.

What sort of photo should I provide when I apply for a Voter Authority Certificate?

Your digital photo must be:

  • clear and in focus
  • in colour
  • against a plain, light-coloured background
  • your true likeness, with no photoshop or filters
  • at least 600×750 pixels
  • JPG, PNG, HEIC, HEIF or GIF format — min 50KB, max 20MB

In your photo you must:

  • face forwards, looking straight at the camera
  • be alone, with no other objects or people
  • have a plain expression
  • have eyes open and visible, with no hair in front of them
  • not wear sunglasses, but normal glasses are fine if you typically wear them
  • not have a head covering (apart from religious or medical reasons), including a hat or headphones
  • not have ‘red-eye’, glare or shadows over your face.

Last updated: Thu 18th April, 2024 @ 08:48