RESIDENTS will need to show photographic ID when voting at this year’s local elections.

For the first time in the Maldon district, residents are being urged to make sure they have ID ready to vote in May.

The requirement to show a photo ID at the polling station is a new requirement, introduced by the UK Government’s Elections Act which was passed last year.

It comes into effect for the first time this May.

Accepted forms of ID include a UK, European Economic Area (EEA) or Commonwealth passport, a UK, EEA, or Commonwealth drivers’ licence and some concessionary travel passes, such as an older person’s bus pass or an Oyster 60+ card.

Voters will be able to use expired ID if they are still recognisable from the photo.

Paul Dodson, returning officer at Maldon District Council, said: “With elections taking place in Maldon District on May 4, 2023, it is important that those who want to vote make sure they have an accepted form of ID.

“It may seem early but checking now means you will be ready to vote in May.

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“Residents who do not 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 Maldon District 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 on elections@maldon.gov.uk.

“Anyone who wants to have their say in the elections this May must also be registered to vote.

“It only takes five minutes to register online at www.gov.uk/register-to-vote.

“Voters wishing to apply to their council for free ID should first make sure they are registered to vote.”

Anyone who does not have one of the accepted forms of ID will be able to apply for free ID online at www.voter-authority-certificate.service.gov.uk/ or by completing a paper form.

The full list of accepted ID is available on the Electoral Commission’s website, along with more information about the new requirement and details of how to apply for the free ID, at electoralcommission.org.uk/voterID.