Applying for a Voter Authority Certificate (Photo ID for voting)

From the 4th of May 2023, the UK Government has introduced a requirement for voters to show photo ID when voting at polling stations, in some UK elections and referendums. A large proportion of individuals experiencing homelessness may not have photo ID, often due to the costs of application or replacement or the inability to keep their ID safe.

The Government has introduced a ‘Voter Authority Certificate’ for those without an accepted form of photo ID, to use to vote in some UK elections and referendums.

What does this briefing cover?

This briefing outlines the process of applying for a Voter Authority Certificate. It is important that frontline workers in homelessness services and local authorities are aware of the process of application, so they are able to support individuals to exercise their right to vote.

The Electoral Commission has also produced a Voter ID Partner Pack for homelessness services in England which includes guidance on voting, printable posters to raise awareness of the new voter ID requirement, and social media graphics.