Voters going to the polls at the local elections in May will need to show photographic ID for the first time.

People in Kirklees are being advised to check they have the right form of ID in time for voting in the council elections on May 4.

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 at electoralcommission.org.uk/voterID.

Anyone who does not have one of the accepted forms of ID will be able to apply for free ID online at Apply for photo ID to vote (called a ‘Voter Authority Certificate’) – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk) or by completing a paper form.

Returning officer Jacqui Gedman, Kirklees Council’s chief executive, said: “With elections taking place in Kirklees on May 4 2023, 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 this to Kirklees Council’s electoral services team.

“If you need any help with applying for the free ID or want to request an application form, contact the electoral services team on 01484 221650 or email voterID@kirklees.gov.uk.”

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Ailsa Irvine, director of electoral administration and guidance, said: “Anyone voting at a polling station in England this May will need to show photo ID before they can be given their ballot paper.

“It’s important that everyone understands what types of ID they can use, and how to apply for free ID if they need it.”

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 www.gov.uk/register-to-vote. Voters wishing to apply to their council for free ID should first make sure they are registered 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.