Young voters urged to check their ID ahead of UK General Election

New research from the Electoral Commission has shown that young people are significantly less likely to be aware of the requirement to bring photo ID to vote in person at the UK general election on 4 July than older people.

Electoral Commission research shows that only 75% of those aged 18-34 are aware that they will need to bring photo ID, compared to 91% of those aged over 35. Overall, 87% of people in Scotland are aware of the new requirement.

We have partnered with the Electoral Commission to call on young voters to check whether they have an acceptable form of photo ID. Accepted forms of photo ID include a passport, driving licence and Young Scot National Entitlement Card.

A free form of ID, the Voter Authority Certificate, is available for those who do not already have a form of accepted ID, but time is running out to apply before the deadline of 5pm on Wednesday 26 June.

Andy O’Neill, Head of the Electoral Commission, Scotland said:  

“This is the first UK general election where photo ID is needed. It’s essential that people check if they have an accepted form of ID, so they don’t miss out on having their say. There is a long list of accepted forms of ID, but anyone that doesn’t have one is still able to take part by applying for the free ID.   

“If you know anyone that may not be aware of the new requirement, help to spread the word so that they can get ready to vote on 4 July.” 

Young Scot CEO Kirsten Urquhart said:

“So far we’ve reached over 70,000 young people in Scotland via the digital spaces they spend their time, to explain how to use their Young Scot National Entitlement Card as voter ID, how to register to vote and why it's important to vote.

Young people can learn about using their Young Scot NEC to vote and much more about the election by following our social channels or visiting https://young.scot/campaigns/voting.”

Instagram: @youngscot

TikTok: @young.scot

The full list of accepted ID, along with more information about how to apply for free ID, is available at electoralcommission.org.uk/voterID.