Wells residents are called to prepare appropriate identification for the upcoming general election on July 4, as voter ID laws take effect for the first time. Those lacking one of the specified forms of ID have until 5pm today, June 26, to apply for a Voter Authority Certificate.

Voters can apply online, providing a digital photo and verification of their identity through a National Insurance number or documents like a birth certificate.

The list of accepted IDs includes UK and various international driving licences, passports, and specific national identity and concessionary travel cards. The ID must still resemble the voter and bear the same name as registered, though slight name variations are acceptable.

This measure was introduced to ensure the integrity of the voting process, as evidenced during the 2023 local elections where some voters were turned away for not having the correct ID.

Don't miss your chance to vote—apply for a Voter Authority Certificate now if you need it at: Apply for a Voter Authority Certificate.