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Voter ID Card - Eligibility, Documents Required, Importance & How To Apply for Voter ID

TeamAckoDec 13, 2024

The Voter ID, or Voter Card or Electors Photo Identity Card (EPIC) is a very important document to have in the largest democracy of the world. One of the fundamental rights guaranteed by democracy is the right to vote. This right can be exercised through the Voter ID.

The inception of Voter ID goes right back to the days of independence. After the Colonial British Rule ended, elections were held. Before the first general elections could be held, the country needed a system to identify all the citizens who were eligible to vote. For this, the Election Commission of India brought the voter card to its citizens.

In this blog, we will cover everything you ever wanted to know about Indian Voter ID, Voting ID, Voter Card, Voter ID Card, and Election Card. The Election Card or Voter ID is a card that Indian citizens can apply for when they turn 18 years old and are legally allowed to vote. Applying for the Voter ID card is simple and straightforward. Explore how to apply for and get the Voter ID card in this article.

Also known as the Voter ID, Voting ID, Voter Card, Voter ID Card, and Election Card, it verifies the identity and details of the holder. This card is one of the most important documents an Indian citizen can have and requires additional layers of security to verify its authenticity.

Voter

Contents

What is the EPIC Number in a Voter ID Card?
Documents Required For Voter ID
How to Apply for Voter ID
- Online:
- Offline or In-person:
How to Track Voter ID Application Status Online?
How to Download Voter ID Using EPIC Number?
What to Do if You Do Not Receive a Voter ID Card?
Updating Voter ID Details
How to Correct Details in the Voter ID Card?
How to Make Changes to Your Name on Your Voter ID Online?
Which Form Is Required for Correcting Names on Voter IDs?
How Can NRI Electors Apply for Voter ID Cards Online?
Importance of Having a Voter Card
Wrapping up!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

A Voter ID Card, or the Electors Photo Identity Card (EPIC), is an official required for voting. It contains the photo of the person in authority and the identification issued by the Election Commission of India. For any citizen in India, It is mandatory to have this identification approved for voting during a national, state, or local election held across the country.

Key Points about Voter ID Cards:

Purpose: A Voter ID Card's main objective is to secure the integrity of the electoral roll as well as provide the means of identifying eligible voters to prevent voting fraud or tampering. It helps verify voters to ensure that only qualified voters can cast their ballots in the elections.
Eligibility: A Voter ID Card is issued only to individuals who are Indian citizens and have already reached the age of 18.
Application Process: The application process for a Voter ID Card involves filling out a prescribed form and submitting it along with necessary documents like proof of age, address, and identity.
Features: A Voter ID Card typically contains the following information:
- Name of the voter
- Photograph of the voter
- Date of birth
- Gender
- Electoral roll number
- Signature of the voter
- Signature of the issuing authority
Importance: Apart from its primary purpose of identification during elections, a Voter ID Card can also serve as a general identity proof for various other purposes, such as opening a bank account, obtaining a passport, or applying for a mobile phone connection.

In essence, a Voter ID Card is a fundamental tool that empowers Indian citizens to participate in the democratic process and ensures the integrity of elections.

What is the EPIC Number in a Voter ID Card?

The EPIC Number, or Electors Photo Identification Card number, is a 10-digit alphanumeric number allocated to a particular individual that appears on the electoral roll. This number is significant because of several reasons:

Verification of Identity: Whenever you vote at the polling station, you must give your EPIC number, which the election officials verify against the voters' list.
Online Services: Your EPIC number allows you to access various online services provided by the Election Commission of India. You can use it to check your voter registration status, download your voter ID card, and file complaints or suggestions.
General Identification: In addition to its electoral purposes, the EPIC number can also be used as a general identification proof for various other purposes, such as opening a bank account, obtaining a passport, or applying for a mobile phone connection.
Security and Integrity: The EPIC number's unique nature helps maintain the electoral process's security and integrity. It minimises the chances of fraudulent voting and ensures that only eligible voters can participate in elections.

Documents Required For Voter ID

To register as an Indian Voter, you need to submit an application for the Voter ID. In addition, you will be required to submit supplemental documents. You will need to include proof of address, proof of age, and proof of identity.

Address Proof

Passport
Utilities bill (gas, water)
Rental agreement
Ration card
Bank Passbook or statement
AADHAAR Card

Proof Of Age

10th Standard Certificate
Birth Certificate
PAN Card
AADHAAR Card
Driver's Licence
Passport
Kisan Card

Proof of Identity

PAN Card
Driver's Licence
Ration Card
Passport Copy
Bank Passbook with Photograph
SSLC Certificate
Student ID Card
AADHAAR Card

Also, read: Documents required for passport

How to Apply for Voter ID

Online:

Navigate to the Election Commission Website

Go to the Election Commission's official website
Choose your state from the list/map
You will automatically go to the Chief Electoral Officer page of your state.

Log In

Now, you will have to log in to the website.
If you've never been to this website, register as a new user.
New users, fill out your name, email, phone number, and create your account
Choose the Continue button
Your login details will be sent to your email address
Log in with the username and password, and then change your password
After you log in, select "Form 6" or "Application for including name in assembly constituency voters list."

Fill Out the Application

Enter all your personal details in the application form. Upload a passport-size colour photograph, and then "Submit" the firm and photograph.

Verify Identity

After you submit the application, you will be asked to visit your closest voter ID centre. Go to the centre with your supporting documents, including identity proof and address proof. The Election Commission will send your new voter's card within 1 week.

Download EPIC Card

Go to the National Government Services Portal and select E-EPIC Download. You will be redirected to a login page, where you need to submit your EPIC card details. After submitting these details, you can download your card.

Offline or In-person:

You can register for your Voter ID offline by following the steps mentioned below.

You can download and print a Form 6 application, or you can visit your local Election Commission office and get a Form 6 there. A Form 6 application is free at the Electoral Registration Officers/Assistant Electoral Registration Officers and Booth Level Officers offices.

Along with the application, you will need to submit photocopies of the required documents listed above in the required documents section. Submit the application and documents at the office of the Electoral Registration Officer/Assistant Electoral Registration Officer. Alternatively, you can mail in your application and required documents to the Booth Level Officer in your constituency.

You can also call Toll Free 1950 for further assistance about the Election Commission ID and application process.

How to Track Voter ID Application Status Online?

Step 1: Go to the NVSP or National Voters' Services Portal.

Step 2: Click the "Login" button in step two.

Step 3: Click "Request OTP" after entering your password, mobile number, and captcha code.

Step 4: Click "Verify and Login" after entering the OTP.

Step 5: Select the option labeled "Track Application Status."

Step 6: Click "Submit" after entering the reference number and choosing "State."

Step 7: The screen will show the voter registration status.

The acknowledgement slip you receive upon submitting your voter registration application contains the reference ID.

How to Download Voter ID Using EPIC Number?

Want to access your Voter ID card digitally? Follow these simple steps:

Visit the Official Website: Click on the provided link to access the official website.

Locate the e-EPIC Download Option: Find and click on the "e-EPIC Download" option once on the website.
Login to Your Account: Enter your username, password, and the displayed captcha. Then, click on "Log in."
Verify Your Identity: After successful login, provide your mobile number. You'll receive an OTP for verification. Enter the OTP to proceed.
Download Your Voter ID Card: Once verified, you can download your Voter ID card in digital format.

Following these steps, you can easily access your Voter ID card online.

What to Do if You Do Not Receive a Voter ID Card?

If you have registered to vote but haven't received your Voter ID card, here's what you can do:

Check Your Registration Status

Online: Visit the official website of the Election Commission of India and use the Voter Search Service to check your registration status.
Offline: Visit your local Electoral Registration Officer (ERO) office to inquire about your registration status.

Contact Your Local ERO Office

Visit the Office: Explain your situation to your nearest ERO office.
Provide Necessary Documents: Be prepared to provide any required documents, such as proof of address, age, and identity.
File a Complaint: If necessary, file a complaint with the ERO office to expedite issuing your Voter ID card.

Follow Up Regularly

Stay in Touch: Keep in touch with your ERO office to get updates on your Voter ID card status.
Be Patient: Issuing Voter ID cards can sometimes take time.

By following these steps, you can ensure that you receive your Voter ID card and exercise your right to vote.

Updating Voter ID Details

Sometimes, a Voter ID may be printed with typos, or you may want to update certain section details.

Go to your local electoral office. The electoral office will have a Form 8 application that you need to fill out. This is the form to correct details on your Voter's ID.

How to Correct Details in the Voter ID Card?

Did you spot a mistake on your Voter ID card? No worries, you can easily correct it online! Here is how:

Head to the National Voters' Service Portal

Open your web browser and visit this website: http://www.nvsp.in/

Find the Correction Section

Look for a tab or option that says "Correction of Entries in Electoral Roll" or "Voter Card Correction." Click on it.

Download Form 8

You will be redirected to a new page where the option to download "Form 8" will be available. Complete this form to update the details on your Voter ID.

Fill Out the Form

The form will ask you for some information:

Your Location: Name of your state and your electoral constituency (assembly or parliamentary)
Your Personal Information: Name, age, gender
Voter ID Details: Electoral roll number, card number (top left corner), card issue date, state where it was issued, and your constituency name again.
Current Details: Your full residential address.
Proof of Correction: Upload scanned copies of documents like passport-sized photos, valid ID proof, and address proof (like utility bill).

Select the Correction

There might be separate sections for each type of correction you need (name, address, etc.). Choose the section that applies to your mistake.

Finalise Your Request

Enter the city you're making the request from and the current date. Please provide your phone number or email address so they can contact you. Finally, double-check all the information and submit your request.

Remember:

Make sure all your scanned documents are clear and readable.
You can track the status of your correction request online using the portal.

That's it! Now, you have initiated the process of correcting your Voter ID card. Be patient; it may take some time for them to process your request and send you a new card.

How to Make Changes to Your Name on Your Voter ID Online?

Want to change your name on your Voter ID card but can't find the right website? Don't worry; this guide will walk you through the process.

Visit the National Voter's Service Portal (NVSP): http://www.nvsp.in/
Download and Fill Out Form 8: Find "Correction of Entries in Electoral Roll" and download this form 8.
Gather Proof of Name Change:

Government Gazette showing name change
Passport or PAN Card reflecting your new name

Upload Documents and Submit: Scan documents (clear quality) and upload with Form 8 on NVSP.
Track Your Application: Get a reference number to monitor progress online.
Verification and Notification: The government will verify documents. You will be notified by the Chief Electoral Office (CEO) upon completion.
Collect Updated Voter ID: Visit your local electoral office to receive your new card with the updated name.

Tips:

Ensure your scanned documents are clear and legible.
Be patient, as processing can take some time.

By following these steps, you can easily update your Voter ID name online!

Which Form Is Required for Correcting Names on Voter IDs?

To change or update your name on your voter card, you must submit Form 8. Additionally, this form is available in your local electoral office or on the Chief Electoral website. To get this form, go to the electoral website of your state or union territory. You must include details such as:

Your correct name
Your current contact details
Your voter ID card
Names of your constituencies
Official records with your true name on them

Your next voter card with the right name will be sent when you submit your Form 8. However, measuring the days required to update voter card information is challenging because the correction procedure relies on the electoral roll.

How Can NRI Electors Apply for Voter ID Cards Online?

Are you an Indian citizen living abroad? If so, you can still participate in Indian elections! Here's how to register as an Overseas Indian Voter (OIV):

Who is Eligible?

To be eligible for OIV registration, you must:

Be a citizen of India
Not have acquired citizenship of any other country
Be absent from your ordinary residence in India due to employment, education, or other reasons

How to Register?

Visit the National Voters' Service Portal (NVSP)

Go to the official NVSP website.

Find the 'Overseas Voter Registration' Option

Look for the specific section dedicated to overseas voter registration.

Fill Out Form 6A

Download and fill out Form 6A, the application form for overseas voter registration.

Gather Necessary Documents

Prepare the following documents:

Passport
Aadhaar Card (if available)
Recent passport-sized photograph
Submit the Application:
Upload the completed Form 6A and the required documents to the NVSP portal.

Verification and Approval

The Election Commission of India will verify your application. If approved, you'll be enrolled as an overseas voter.

Voting Process for NRIs

Once registered, you will receive a Voter ID card with a special category. To vote, you will need to:

Obtain a One-Time Password (OTP): You will receive an OTP on your registered mobile number.
Cast Your Vote Electronically: Use the OTP to log in to the e-voting portal and cast your vote.

By following these steps, you can exercise your right to vote in Indian elections, even from abroad.

Importance of Having a Voter Card

Now that you understand the importance of a Voter Card, how to get one, who is eligible, the documents you need, and even how to make corrections, let's look at how important it is.

Verifies Voter Identity

Only an eligible Indian voter can cast their vote in the elections. But how does one know who is eligible? The Voter ID does the job. With a Voter ID, your eligibility can not be put into question. Your card contains a unique identification number, along with your name, address, and photograph, that solidifies your identity as a voter.

Deters Voter Fraud

Another important purpose that the card plays is to deter voter fraud. The authorities can track the process and ensure that one person has not voted multiple times under different identities.

Streamlines Voting Process

Holding and managing an election in the world's largest democracy can be a monumental task.

The Voter Card helps the official navigate the election process in a much more seamless manner. The person can just present their card, vote, and leave. Hence simplifying and speeding up the process.

Inclusive in Nature

India has had a history of non-inclusivity, and the Voter Card changed that. The Voter ID can be issued to any Indian citizen who comes from any background, as long as the essential requirements are met. This ensures that everyone can have a say and role in electing the government no matter what their background is.

Wrapping up!

The Voter ID is a very important document that ensures you have the right to be part of the democracy and ensure that one of its main pillars is standing strong. You can easily apply for one once you are of the right eligible age, can do it easily using both the offline and online methods and ensure you have a role to play in the elections. The changes you need to make to your Voter Card can also be easily done through online and offline methods.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Below are some of the frequently asked questions on Your Complete Guide To The Indian Voter ID

What is the importance of a Voter ID?

The voter ID is an essential document that every citizen of the country needs to exercise their right to vote and participate in the democratic process of elections.

Who can apply for a Voter Card?

Here are the eligibility criteria- 1- Citizens must be at least 18 years of age. 2- Residents of the constituency they want to enrol in. 3- Not be disqualified from applying for a Voter ID.

What documents do I need in order to apply for a Voter ID?

The list of documents you will need to apply for a Voter ID:

1- Proof of address
2 - Proof of age
3 - Proof of age

These documents usually are - PAN cards, Aadhar Cards, Utility bills, Birth Certificates, Driving licences, Passports, etc.

How do I apply to get a Voter ID?

Apply for a Voter ID online by visiting the Election Commission's website, selecting your state, registering as a new user, filling out the application form (Form 6), and submitting it along with a passport-size photograph. Offline method -you can apply in person at your local Election Commission office or through postal mail.

Disclaimer: The content on this page is generic and shared only for informational and explanatory purposes. It is based on several secondary sources on the internet, and is subject to changes.