DRAFT Key election deadlines

There are several important deadlines in the lead-up to an election. These ensure that people are registered and have the chance to vote in the way that works best for them.

• The deadline to register to vote is usually 12 working days before the election day. That’s roughly two and a half weeks before you’ll go to the polls.
• To vote by post, you must apply for a postal vote at least 11 working days before election day.
• If you want to vote by proxy – that is, asking someone you trust to vote on your behalf – you must apply no later than 6 working days before election day.
• If you don’t have an accepted form of photo ID and want to apply for a Voter Authority Certificate, you must do so by 5pm, 6 working days before election day.
• On election day, polling stations are open from 7am to 10pm.

These deadlines apply to most elections in England, Scotland and Wales. Some elections in Northern Ireland or for specific offices may have slightly different rules, so it’s always a good idea to check the latest information at electoralcommission.org.uk.