Voters in Rutherglen and Hamilton West by election told to bring photo ID

This is the first UK Government election in Scotland since the rule change earlier in the year.

Author: Callum McQuadePublished 5th Sep 2023

Voters taking part in the Rutherglen and Hamilton West by election next month are going to need to bring photo ID with them for the first time.

The rule change came into force for UK Government elections earlier this year.

Yesterday, a vote was confirmed for October 5 in the area after covid rule breaking former MP Margaret Ferrier was kicked out of office.

What kind of Photo ID do I need?

People casting their vote must bring an accepted form of ID with them such as a driving license or a passport.

If you don't have an accepted form of voter ID then you can apply for a free Voter Authority Certificate (VAC).

Photo IDs which are out-of-date will still be accepted as long as the picture is still a "good likeness" of you.

Deadline for receiving applications for registration.

Deadline for receiving new postal vote and postal proxy applications, and for changes to existing postal or proxy votes.

Deadline to apply for a Voter’s Authority Certificate.

Deadline for receiving new applications to vote by proxy (not postal proxy or emergency proxies).

Polling day - counting begins at 10pm.