First time voters guide

Selfies, disabilities, cats and doggies … voting throws up all sorts of questions and issues, but our step-by-step guide for first-timers lets you know exactly what to do

You need to be registered to vote before you can vote in UK elections or referendums.

If you’re eligible, you can vote in person on the day of the election at a named polling station. You can also apply for a postal or proxy vote instead.

  1. How to vote

    How to vote and the differing ways you can do this.

  2. Local polling station

    To vote in person, you will need to know where your local polling station is.

  3. Polling day

    Visiting a polling station on the day of voting.

  4. Casting your vote

    Once your in the polling booth with your ballot paper, cast your vote.