2.5 Age

Age is a key factor in voting eligibility.

In UK Parliament elections, you must currently be at least 18 years old to vote, no matter where you live in the UK. The government has stated its intention to lower the voting age to 16 years old before the next general election, so this may change in the future. 

But in local and devolved elections:

• In Scotland and Wales, you can vote from 16.
• In England and Northern Ireland, the minimum voting age is 18 for all elections.

Young people can often register before they are eligible to vote – which helps them be ready when the time comes.

• In Scotland and Wales, registration is possible from age 14.
• In England and Northern Ireland, registration is possible from age 16.