To be able to vote, you need to be on the electoral register (electoral roll).

The electoral register is prepared and maintained by your local Electoral Registration Office. 

You can register online - it takes less than five minutes. You need your National Insurance Number to register.

Alternatively, you can phone the Electoral Registration Office on 0800 030 4333, or visit the Your Vote Matters website for further information.

When you're registered, you will receive a poll card before each election with details of when and where you can vote. If you cannot vote in person your poll card will provide information about how you can arrange a postal or proxy vote, along with the deadlines for applying for each.

Postal or proxy vote

Voting by post means you will receive a ballot paper before the election - you simply complete the paper and post it back in the envelope provided.

A proxy vote means you appoint someone you trust to vote on your behalf. You can only do this if you have a particular reason, such as you will be abroad on the day or you are ill and cannot attend the polling station.

Find out more about applying for a postal or proxy vote.

Please note, only electors who are (or are applying to be) registered individually are entitled to apply to vote by post. The Electoral Registration Office will be able to provide you with more information on this if you contact them on 0800 030 4333.

Follow the instructions on the application forms carefully to ensure your application is completed correctly and you will be able to vote.