Stockport residents have until 25th April to apply for free voter ID

Stockport residents are being reminded to apply for free voter ID ahead of upcoming May local elections in borough before the 5pm on 25th April.

For the first time voters will need to show suitable photo ID to vote in person at the upcoming local elections on 4 May: passports, driving licenses and some concessionary travel passes can all be used (a full list of accepted ID is available of the Government website here) and expired IDs can also be used provided you are recognisable in the photo.

Registered voters in Stockport who do not have an accepted form of photo ID can apply online for a free Voter Authority Certificate, or by applying for and submitting a paper form to the Stockport Council Electoral Services team by emailing elections.office@stockport.gov.uk or calling 0161 217 6026. Support with applying is available from the Electoral Services team, Stockport DigiKnow team and at local libraries.

Applications for the free ID, called a Voter Authority Certificate, must be received by the Elections Office by 5pm on 25 April. The deadline to be registered to vote, if you are not already, is Monday 17th April in order to participate in the upcoming Local Elections.

Caroline Simpson, Returning Officer at Stockport Council, said:

“As the deadline to apply for free Voter Authority Certificates looms, it is important that Stockport residents make sure they’re election ready. If you need any help with applying for free voter ID or want to request an application form, you can contact the electoral services team on 0161 217 6026 or email elections.office@stockport.gov.uk.”

Ailsa Irvine, Director of Electoral Administration and Guidance at the Electoral Commission, said:

“Voters will be required to show photo ID at polling stations at the May elections. The availability of free ID helps ensure elections remain accessible to all eligible voters. For those who don’t currently have the ID they need, it’s crucial they apply before the deadline so that they can take part. That date is fast approaching so don’t delay.”