Take Part in the Mayoral Elections

There are four types of mayor in England: 

• In London, the Mayor sets out the vision for the city 

• Combined Authority Mayors  

• Local Authority Mayors 

• Mayors with a ceremonial role, but aren’t elected and don’t have a political role. 

The type of mayor you’ll be voting for will depend on where you’re voting. Their responsibilities therefore will vary with the type of mayor. Did you know, you can also vote in two mayoral elections as a student (if you’re registered to vote at both your home and term time address) unless you are voting for the London Mayor.  

In certain areas you’ll also be able to vote for Police and Crime Commissioner and local councillors. Whatever roles are up for election its important that you form informed opinions, so explore all candidates in your local area to inform your vote. 

• Register to vote online no later than: 16th April at 11:59pm

• Registering for a Postal Vote, if you're unable to vote in-person, by: 17th April at 5pm

• Register for a Proxy Vote, if you'd like someone else to vote in-person on your behalf, by: 24th April at 5pm

• Apply for a voter ID card to ensure it is available for use if you are voting in-person. Different deadlines apply. You do not need voter ID to vote via proxy or by post.   

• Voting day: 2nd May (polling stations open 7am – 10pm) 

Regardless of how you will be voting, you’ll first need to register to vote online by 11:59pm on 16th April. But then what? 

Voting in-person: Once you’ve registered to vote, you will receive your ballot card and will be able to vote at your local polling station on 2nd May. Please note, you will need to bring a form of photo ID, such as your passport or provisional / full driver’s license to be allowed to vote.  Please note there are a variety of ID cards that are accepted but student ID cards and bus passes are not included.

Need a form of photo ID? NUS have now teamed up with Citizen Card, meaning students can get a voter ID card for free. So, we’d definitely suggest that you learn more about the Citizen Card. 

Alternatively, you can apply for voter Authority certificate.

Where is my local polling station? This should be specified on your ballot card, but you can also look up your local polling station online. 

If you won’t be able to vote in-person, because you’re not available on 2nd May, you can register for a proxy or postal vote. 

Registering for a Proxy vote: This means that you will nominate someone to vote on your behalf on 2nd May. To do this you’ll need to register for a proxy vote by 5pm on 24th April. 

Registering for a Postal vote: There is also the option to vote via post, you’ll need to register for a postal vote by 5pm on Wednesday 17th April. Just remember, your voting forms will arrive at your registered voting address, so if you’re not going to be there to receive them you may like to consider opting for the proxy vote. 

Please note, your forms will need to be with the elections team at your local council by 10pm on polling day to be counted. So, ensure you familiarise yourself with completing your postal vote and return it in good time.