Register to vote and check your details after moving home

You normally only need to register to vote once, but you must register again if you change your name, address or nationality. It usually takes about 5 minutes online.

Deadline

No fixed deadline

Last checked

Checked against the official source: 21 October 2026

What if you miss the deadline? If you are not registered, you cannot vote. If an electoral registration officer asks you to register and you do not, you could be fined up to £1,000.

You need to be on the electoral register to vote in UK elections and referendums. In England, Scotland and Wales, electoral registration offices contact households from July each year to check the register. This is called the annual canvass. There is no annual canvass in Northern Ireland.

How to do it

1. Register online on GOV.UK. Have your National Insurance number ready if you have one.
2. Register again after you move home or change your name or nationality.
3. Reply when your electoral registration office contacts you during the annual canvass.
4. Check which photo ID you need to vote in person, for example a UK passport or a photocard driving licence.
5. If you have no accepted photo ID, apply for a free Voter Authority Certificate (or an Electoral Identity Card in Northern Ireland).

Common questions

How do I check if I am already registered?

Contact your electoral registration office in England, Scotland or Wales. In Northern Ireland, use the Am I Registered service.

Can I use expired photo ID to vote?

Yes. GOV.UK says you can still use your ID even if it has expired, as long as it is an accepted type.

Can I opt out of the open register?

Yes. The open register can be bought by anyone. Opting out does not affect your right to vote.

Official source: gov.uk (opens in a new tab)

This information is not legal or tax advice.