All you have to know on election photograph ID when you missed postal vote deadline
Millions of Brits will cast their ballots in the July 4 General Election next week but many will have forgotten to apply for photo ID after missing the postal vote deadline – fortunately there is still time to apply for one.
The nation will go to the polls next month in its first July election since 1945. Pollsters predict Labour will storm to a landslide, much like Clement Attlee’s party achieved when it won a sizeable majority over Winston Churchill’s Conservatives.
While many will have applied to vote by post, there will be those who missed the deadline who will need to vote in person. Following a change in the law, voters must show photo ID in order to cast their ballot.
Anyone who does not have acceptable photo ID risks being turned away from the polling station. Ex-PM Boris Johnson was turned away during the local elections after he failed to bring the correct photo ID.
There will be Brits who do not have acceptable photo ID, fortunately The Mirror is on hand to share a way you can apply for a specific type of identification – although time is quickly running out. Read on to learn more about how to apply for the Voter Authority Certificate (VAC) photo ID below.
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What is a Voter Authority Certificate?
A Voter Authority Certificate can be used to vote in person in certain elections and referendums in England, Scotland and Wales. You cannot use it for any other reason.
I don’t have acceptable photo ID, do I need a Voter Authority Certificate?
You only need to apply for a Voter Authority Certificate for the following reasons:
- you do not have accepted photo ID
- you no longer look like the photo on your ID
- the name on your photo ID is different to your name on the electoral register
If the name on your photo ID is different, you will need to register again or take a document with you that proves you have changed your name.
Do I need to pay for a Voter Authority Certificate?
No, it is free to apply but you will need the following:
- a recent, digital photo of yourself
- your National Insurance number
You can still apply if you do not have a National Insurance number, although you will need to provide other documents that can prove your identity. These include: a birth certificate, bank statement and utility bill.
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What is the deadline to apply for a Voter Authority Certificate?
You must apply for a Voter Authority Certificate by 5pm today (June 26).
I plan to vote in Northern Ireland, can I use a Voter Authority Certificate?
No, you cannot use a Voter Authority Certificate in Northern Ireland.
Do I need to be registered to vote to apply for a Voter Authority Certificate?
Yes, you must be registered to vote before you apply for a Voter Authority Certificate.
How can I apply for a Voter Authority Certificate?
You can apply for a Voter Authority Certificate by following the link here.
