Register to vote anonymously

Who can register anonymously

You can register anonymously if you are worried that having your name or address on the electoral register could put you or someone in your household at risk.

Deadline to apply to register to vote anonymously

You can register to vote anonymously at any time. However, it is best to apply as soon as possible in advance of any upcoming elections. The exact date for the voter registration deadline in any particular election will be advertised in advance, but typically the deadline is around two weeks before election day. 

Anonymous registration only lasts for one year, so you must reapply each year. Your electoral registration office will contact you when it is time for you to reapply.

How anonymous registration works

When you register anonymously:

  • your name and address won't appear on the electoral register
  • only an electoral number will be shown
  • you can still vote in all elections you're eligible for
  • you'll get a special poll card and ID document

Evidence you need

You must provide either:

  • a court order or injunction for your protection
  • an attestation (signed statement) from an authorised person

Authorised people include:

  • police officers of inspector rank or above
  • directors of social services
  • medical professionals
  • refuge managers
  • employers (for certain professions)

How to vote when registered anonymously

You'll need:

Apply for a postal vote

You can also:

Arrange a proxy vote

How to apply

To register anonymously:

  1. Complete an anonymous registration form.
  2. Gather your supporting evidence.
  3. Send everything to your local Electoral Registration Office. 

Registration lasts for one year. You'll need to renew it annually.

Contact your local Electoral Registration Office

Getting help

Contact your local Electoral Registration Office if you:

  • need help with your application
  • want to discuss your situation confidentially
  • need forms in other formats
  • have questions about voting anonymously

You can also get anonymous voter registration guidance from Women's Aid.

Access anonymous voter registration guidance