Voters will need to show an accepted form of photographic identification next time they go to the polling station. 

Whilst there are no planned elections in Dorset Council area until May 2024, you can apply for your ID now so you have it ready should there be a snap election or by-election before then.

The requirement to show photo ID at the polling station was introduced by UK Government's Elections Act, which comes into effect for the first time in May 2023.

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.

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

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 once it has launched: electoralcommission.org.uk/voterID

If voters don't have accepted photo ID, they can apply for a free voter ID document, which is known as a 'Voter Authority Certificate'.

Jonathan Mair, Director of Legal & Democratic at Dorset Council, said: "In future, anyone who wishes to vote in person will be required to produce an accepted form of photographic ID to prove their identity before they will be issued with a ballot paper. This will apply to all elections from May 1 2023.

"Residents who do not have one of the accepted forms of ID can apply for a free Voter Authority Certificate either online or by completing a paper application form.

Those needing to register to vote can do so at www.gov.uk/register-to-vote

Residents will not need to provide photo ID to vote by post.