Voters in Oxford are being reminded that they must show photo ID at this year's local elections on May 2.
The move follows Government regulations enforced from May 4, 2023, but Oxford's local elections will be the first time this process has been used in the city.
Residents will be casting votes for the Oxford City Council and the Police and Crime Commissioner.
The Council has recommended sorting an accepted form of ID in advance.
These include a UK, European Economic Area or Commonwealth passport or drivers’ license, or selected concessionary travel passes, such as an older person’s bus pass or an Oyster 60+ card.
Even expired IDs can be used, provided the picture is still representative of the holder.
In scenarios where no official identification is owned, individuals can resort to a Voter Authority Certificate.
This is obtainable free of charge either via online application at the Voter Authority Certificate website or by completing a paper form that can be requested from the Council's electoral services team at elections@oxford.gov.uk.
The Electoral Commission’s website houses the full list of accepted IDs and additional details about the new photo ID requirement and the process of applying for the free ID.
Applicants for the Voter Authority Certificate are urged to apply in good time to ensure the timely issuance of the certificates.
Information needed to apply includes a photo, full name, date of birth, the address registered to vote at and the individual’s National Insurance number.
The deadline to apply for the Voter Authority Certificate for the May 2 election is April 24.
The new regulation doesn’t apply to those using a postal vote.
Caroline Green, returning officer of the Oxford City Council said: "We don’t want anyone to risk losing their right to vote.
"This may be the first time many people will need photo ID to vote and we want to make sure that they know about it and are ready for the change.
"The changes mean that voters will need to show photo ID before they can be given their ballot paper.
"It’s important that everyone understands what types of ID they can use.
“Residents who don’t have one of the accepted forms of ID can apply for free ID either online or by completing a paper application form and sending this to Oxford City Council’s electoral services team.
"If you need any help with applying for the free ID or want to request an application form, contact the electoral services team at elections@oxford.gov.uk”
For more data about the process, Oxford residents can visit the Council’s elections and voting webpage.
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