You can vote in person at your polling station (usually in a public building, such as a school or local hall).

If you know you won't be able to vote in person, then you can either:

• apply to vote by post
• apply to vote by proxy (appoint someone else to vote on your behalf)

Your poll card

You’ll be sent a poll card just before an election telling you when to vote and at which polling station. You can only vote at the polling station location on your card.

You can still vote if you’ve lost your card.

If you have already chosen to vote by post then you will receive a poll card which tells you when and where your voting papers will be sent.

When you can vote

Polling stations are open from 7am to 10pm on the day of an election (‘polling day’).

When you get to the polling station

Give your name and address to the staff inside the polling station when you arrive. You do not need to bring your poll card.

The staff will then ask to see your ID, check that it's acceptable, and that it looks like you. A private area will be available should you choose to have your photo ID viewed in private. This might be a separate room, or an area separated by a privacy screen, depending on the polling station.

You’ll be given a ballot paper containing a list of the people, parties or options you can vote for.

If you need any assistance (for example, help reading the list of candidates) then please speak to our staff at the polling station, and they will be able to support you.

Filling in your ballot paper

Follow the instructions on the notices in the polling booth and on the top of the ballot paper to vote.

Taking photos

Taking photos inside the polling station isn't allowed as it might risk the secrecy of the ballot.

You are more than welcome to take photos outside the polling station, and share them on social media to encourage your friends and family to vote.