New rules around voting have come into force which mean residents across the borough will have to show photographic identification if they want to have their say in this year’s local elections.

Residents are being urged to make sure they are ready to vote in May by checking they have an accepted form of ID.

The national legislation has come into force ahead of the local elections in May this year.

Accepted forms of ID include a UK, EEA or Commonwealth passport; a UK, EEA or Commonwealth driving licence and some concessionary travel passes. Voters will be able to use expired ID if they are still recognisable from the photo.

Anyone who does not have one of the accepted forms of ID will be able to apply for free ID online when the forms are available later this month. More details on free ID are available on the Electoral Commission website. Kevin O’Keefe, Dudley Council chief executive and elections returning officer, said:

“With elections taking place in Dudley borough on May 4, 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. 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 it back to us.

“If you need any help with applying for the free ID or want to request an application form, contact the electoral services team.”

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 gov.uk/register-to-vote.

The requirement to show photo ID at the polling station, is a new requirement, introduced by the UK Government’s Elections Act which was passed last year and comes into effect for the first time this May. 

More information, including how to contact the electoral services team, can be found at dudley.gov.uk.