Do the new rules apply to postal votes?
No. You do not need to have any form of photographic ID to vote by post.
However, there are checks in place to ensure this process is as robust as possible.
You will be asked to provide your date of birth and signature both when you apply to vote by post and when you return your voting pack, with the results cross-checked to confirm your identity.
The deadline to apply to vote by post was April 18.
How can I get an electoral photo identity card?
The deadline for online applications for those wishing to apply for a free voter ID card in time for the May 4 local elections has passed.
For future elections, you can apply for a free voter ID card either online or by post.
To complete an online application, you will need a recent, digital photo of yourself and your National Insurance (NI) number.
You can still apply if you don’t have an NI number, but you will need to provide alternative documents as proof of identity – such as your birth certificate, a bank statement or utility bill.
To apply by post, you will need to fill out and send a form to your local electoral registration office.
You will need the address of where you are registered to vote, a recent photo of yourself and your NI number.
Again, other supporting documents are accepted – but using these may prolong the application process.
The electoral registration office must receive your form by 5pm, six working days before the election you wish to vote in.
There is a different form to complete if you want to apply by post and you are living abroad, a member of the Armed Forces, a civil servant or a British Council employee.