How to Vote
You must be registered with the Electoral Register to vote in any election.
Find out how to register.
Who can vote?
Young people aged 14 and 15 can register to vote in Wales, and 16 and 17 year olds can vote in Welsh Parliament (Senedd) elections and Local Government elections.
You need to be 18 to vote in UK elections, although legislation is being brought in to allow 16 and 17 year olds to vote in the next general election, which must be called by August 2029.
Students with a home address and a term-time address, can register to vote at both addresses. At local council elections you can vote in both places if they are in different boroughs. In a general election you must choose to vote in one place.
British voters living overseas can vote in UK elections regardless of how long they have lived abroad.
Voting at a polling station
About four weeks before an election you will receive your polling card in the post. On this card you will find details of when, where and how to vote.
It is easier if you take this with you when you vote although you can vote without it.
You will need to show photo ID to vote in UK elections, including Police and Crime Commissioner elections.
If you don't have accepted photo ID, you can apply for a free “photo ID to vote”
All polling stations are equipped with accessibility voting booths and items to help you cast your vote. For example, a tactile voting device, large magnifier, pencil grips, hearing induction looks and easy read information.
Anyone who is over 18 can accompany you in the polling station to help you vote, including carers who may not themselves be eligible to vote at the election.
Voting by post
The process for applying for a postal vote in Wales depends on the type of election:
You need to complete a new postal vote application if you have moved house or changed your name.
For UK Parliament and Police and Crime Commissioner elections, you will need to reapply every three years.
For Senedd elections and local government elections, you can have a postal vote for an indefinite period, but our elections team will contact you to refresh your signature after five years.
Voting by proxy
Proxy voting means having someone to vote on your behalf. This can either be in person at your usual Polling Station or by post.
Anyone can be your proxy if they are eligible to vote in UK elections and they are willing to vote on your behalf.
You can apply for a proxy vote for a specific election or all elections.
Last Modified: 19/02/2026
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