The electoral register (sometimes called the electoral roll) lists the names and addresses of everyone who’s registered to vote.
If you wish to take part in the general election in the future or other votes – such as referendums – you need to be part of the electoral register.
Following Rishi Sunak’s announcement that an election will take place on July 4, 2024, it’s an important time to check if you’re all set to vote.
Curious to find out if you’re already on the electoral roll, or how to sign up? Here’s all you need to know.
If you want to check if you are registered on the electoral register you will need to contact your local Electoral Registration Office.
Alternatively, you can enter your postcode into The Electoral Commission’s website and this will help you find your local Electoral Services office. The website should also give you an email you can use to contact the registration office, and they can let you know if you’re registered to vote or not.
Not sure what's going on in the world of politics? Ask Alright, Gov?, Metro's brand new politics newsletter.
Sign up here for regular updates from Westminster and beyond, exclusive interviews with big names, and easy-to-read breakdowns of how today's headlines will actually affect you.
To register to get on the electoral roll, you must be aged 16 or over (or 14 or over in Scotland and Wales).
You must also be one of the following:
Once you’re registered on the electoral register, you can begin voting in referendums and general elections when you’re 18 or over.
If you live in Scotland or Wales, you can vote in some elections when you’re 16 or over.
If you are not sure of your status regarding the electoral register, you can contact your local electoral office.
If you already know that you’re not registered, the process of doing so is quite straightforward. The gov.uk website has an application form you can fill out – you will need your National Insurance number and other basic information like your name and address.
In England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland, the deadline to register to vote is midnight on June 18.
If you’re asked to register and do not, you could be fined.
You will not be fined if you have a valid reason for not registering, for example a long stay in hospital, or you have severe learning difficulties.
Being on the electoral register has benefits besides allowing you to have your voice heard in elections.
Your Electoral Roll status may make it easier to:
Follow Metro across our social channels, on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
Share your views in the comments below.
