Register to vote

You need to register to vote before you can vote in UK elections and referendums.

You still have to register to vote even if you pay Council Tax.

You do not have to wait until there is an election to register to vote. You should register as soon as you change your address or are old enough.

You can use the Government's register to vote service to:

• get on the electoral register 
• change your details (your name or address) 

To register to vote you will need your: 

• full name 
• address 
• nationality 
• date of birth 
• national insurance number 

Why you should register to vote

Credit reference agencies use the electoral register when you apply for credit. 

If your name is not on the register, you may not be able to get credit, a mortgage, or a mobile phone contract. 

Schools may use the electoral register to check you live within their catchment area. 

North Essex Parking Partnership will check the register when you apply for a resident’s parking permit. 

You can contact us to find out if you are already on the register.

Who can register to vote

You can register to vote if you are 16 years of age and over, resident in the UK and you are: 

• a British citizen 
• an Irish or EU citizen living in the UK 
• a Commonwealth citizen who has permission to enter or stay in the UK, or who does not need permission 

You can use GOV.UK to check which elections you’re eligible to vote in.