Vote in UK elections

Find out how voting works in the UK. Check if you can vote, register to vote, and find out how to vote in person, by post or by proxy.

1. Step 1: Check if you can vote

   1. Check which elections you can vote in

2. Step 2: Register to vote

   You’ll need to be registered to vote to take part in elections and referendums. You’ll need to register again if you change your name, address or nationality.

   1. Register to vote - apply online

   1. Register to vote - apply by post

3. Step 3: Decide if you want to vote in person, by post, or by proxy

   1. Find out the different ways you can vote

4. Step 4: Get ready to vote in person

   1. Check what ID you need to vote

   If you do not have photo ID that allows you to vote, you can apply for a Voter Authority Certificate.

   1. Apply for a Voter Authority Certificate

   Contact your Electoral Registration Office to find your polling station or to find out what to do if you have accessibility needs.

   1. Contact your Electoral Registration Office

5. or Apply for a postal vote

   In England, Scotland or Wales:

   • apply online for a postal vote
   • apply by post for a postal vote

   1. Apply in Northern Ireland - by post only

   1. Find out more about voting by post

6. or Apply for a proxy vote

   In England, Scotland or Wales:

   • apply online for a proxy vote
   • apply by post for a proxy vote

   1. Apply in Northern Ireland - by post only

   1. Find out more about voting by proxy - including when you must apply by

7. or Get ready to vote as a proxy

   1. Check what ID you need to vote

   Contact the Electoral Registration Office of the person you are a proxy for to find their polling station or to find out what to do if you have accessibility issues.

   1. Contact the Electoral Registration Office

8. Step 5: Vote in person

   1. Vote in person

9. or Vote by post

   1. Vote by post

10. or Vote as a proxy for someone else

    1. Vote as a proxy for someone else