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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
National
Independent Reporters

Do I need my polling card to vote? How to cast your ballot in the local elections 2026

  • Local elections are taking place for 136 local authorities on 7 May, including some of the largest cities in the country and the whole of London.
  • Can I still register to vote? The deadline for voter registration, postal, and proxy votes has passed, with polling stations open from 7am to 10pm on 7 May. You should have received a polling card with the details of your nearest election if you are registered to vote. If you have not received a poll card but think you should, contact your electoral registration office.
  • Do I need to my polling card to vote? You can only vote at the polling station location on your polling card, but you do not need the card to vote (i.e. if you have lost the card or forget to take it with you to the polling station, you can still vote).
  • Do I need to bring ID? You will need to bring Photo ID to vote in local elections, this can include your UK passport or a UK or Northern Ireland photocard driving license. Check the full list here.
  • How do I cast my vote? When you arrive at the polling station to vote, you should be given a ballot paper by a volunteer and be directed to a polling booth. Just follow the instructions on the ballot paper to cast your vote.

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