Residents in the Borough of Havant are running out of time to apply for a Voter Authority Certificate ahead of the local elections on Thursday 4 May 2023.
The UK Government has introduced the new requirement which means votes in England will need to show an acceptable form of photo ID when voting at a polling station.
Residents without a suitable form of photo ID can apply for a free Voter Authority Certificate which can only be used for elections. Applications can be made online through the GOV.uk website or by visiting the council offices, bringing your National Insurance number.
Those who require a Voter Authority Certificate need to apply by 5pm on Tuesday 25 April 2023. Residents should first make sure they are registered to vote before applying.
Accepted forms of ID include a UK, European Economic Area (EEA) or Commonwealth passport; a UK or EEA drivers’ licence; and some concessionary travel passes, such as an older person’s bus pass or an Oyster 60+ card. Voters will be able to use expired ID if they are still recognisable from the photo.
People are urged to check the list of accepted ID carefully as some forms of photo ID, such as security passes issued by employers, will not be accepted.
Voters also need to make sure the photo ID is the original. A photocopy or a picture of the photo ID taken with a mobile phone will not be accepted.
A list of accepted ID is available on the Council’s website, along with more information about the new requirement, frequently asked questions and details of how to apply for the free Voter Authority Certificate.
For more information, visit www.havant.gov.uk/elections