How to register to vote
The deadline to register to vote for elections on Thursday 2 May is Tuesday 16 April.
Once you’ve registered, there are three ways to cast your vote:
At the polling station
On Thursday 2 May 2024, polling stations will be open between 7am and 10pm for you to cast your vote. When you arrive at the polling station you will be asked for your name and address, as well as a valid form of photo ID. Staff will check you are on the electoral register and give you the ballot papers for the elections taking place in your area at which you are entitled to vote. Find out where your local polling station is.
By post
If you decide to vote this way, you need to apply for a postal vote by 5pm on Wednesday 17 April. You can apply online or download and complete a paper registration form. If you have requested a postal vote, your postal ballot pack will be sent to you around 19 April 2024. If you applied near to the postal vote application deadline, your pack will arrive around 24 April 2024. You must return your postal vote so that it reaches the Local Returning Officer by 10pm on Thursday 2 May 2024.
Vote by proxy
Anyone who is registered to vote can apply to vote by post or appoint someone they trust to vote on their behalf as a proxy. You can only apply for a proxy vote under certain circumstances, including:
- being away on polling day
- being registered as an overseas voter
- having a medical issue or disability
- not being able to vote in person due to work or military service
You can apply for a proxy vote online or vote by post by completing an application form and returning it to your local Electoral Registration Office. The deadline for applying for a postal proxy vote is 5.00pm on Wednesday 17 April. The application deadline for an online proxy vote is 5.00pm on Wednesday 24 April 2024.
In certain circumstances, emergency proxy voting may be available after the ordinary proxy deadline of Wednesday 24 April. You can find more information, request application forms, or download them.