The deadline for registering to vote in the upcoming May elections is quickly approaching. All residents over 18 who have not already registered, must do so by 17 April 2023.
It is important for all residents to exercise their right to vote and use this opportunity to make their voices heard. Residents who have not yet registered to vote can do so online, they can also use this service to: update their name, address or nationality, which must match their accepted photo ID being presented at polling station, and get on or off the open register.
In addition, residents are reminded that if they are voting at their local polling station, they must present an accepted form of photo ID.
Check full list of accepted forms of photo ID
If residents do not have an accepted form of photo ID, they must apply for a Voter Authority Certificate (VAC) by 25 April 2023. The application is free and to apply you need: a recent, digital photo of yourself and National Insurance number. To apply, residents should visit:
Apply for Voter Authority Certificate
Those without a National Insurance number will need to provide other documents to prove their identity, such as their birth certificate, a bank statement or a utility bill.
Those wishing to submit a new application for a postal vote must do so by 5pm on Tuesday 18 April 2023, applications are available via the Government portal or from the Customer Service Centre and must be returned by this deadline.
If residents, or someone they know, require assistance applying, they can contact our Elections Team on elections@watford.gov.uk or visit the Customer Service Centre in-person, and a member of the team will be available to help with the application process. Residents are required to bring all necessary documents with them.
Our Customer Service Centre opening hours are as follows:
- Monday: 9am – 1pm
- Tuesday: 1pm – 5pm
- Wednesday: 10am – 2pm
- Thursday: 1pm – 5pm
- Friday: 9am – 1pm
- Weekends and public holidays: Closed
