A voter ID card is an essential document for Indian citizens as it serves as both an identity proof and allows individuals to cast their votes during elections. The Election Commission of India (ECI) has made it easy to apply for a voter card through online and offline methods. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you apply for a voter card in India.
Eligibility Criteria
Before applying for a voter ID, ensure you meet the following criteria:
- You must be a citizen of India.
- You should be at least 18 years old as of January 1 of the year in which the electoral roll is updated.
- You should reside at the address for which you are applying for the voter ID.
How to Apply Online for a Voter ID Card
The Election Commission of India provides an easy online method to apply for a voter ID through the National Voter Service Portal (NVSP). Follow these steps:
- Visit the Official Website
- Select the Relevant Form
- Click on “Register as a new voter” or select Form 6 if applying for the first time.
- Fill in the Details
- Provide personal details such as name, age, gender, address, and mobile number.
- Upload scanned copies of required documents, including:
- A passport-sized photograph
- Proof of age (e.g., birth certificate, 10th-grade mark sheet, Aadhaar card)
- Proof of residence (e.g., Aadhaar card, passport, rent agreement, electricity bill)
- Verify and Submit
- Review all details before submission and click on Submit.
- You will receive an application reference number for tracking purposes.
- Verification Process
- A Booth Level Officer (BLO) will visit your residence to verify the details provided.
- Once verified, your voter ID will be processed and sent to your registered address.
How to Apply Offline for a Voter ID Card
If you prefer the offline process, follow these steps:
- Visit the Nearest Election Office
- Collect Form 6 from your local Electoral Registration Office.
- Fill Out the Form
- Enter personal details correctly and attach copies of required documents (proof of age, residence, and a passport-size photo).
- Submit the Application
- Submit the completed form and documents to the election office.
- You will receive an acknowledgment slip with a reference number.
- Verification and Issuance
- A BLO will verify the details through a home visit.
- After verification, your voter ID card will be issued and delivered.
Tracking Your Voter ID Application Status
You can track the status of your application through:
- The NVSP website using your application reference number.
- Calling the toll-free helpline number 1950.
- Visiting the nearest Electoral Office.
Know your booth, AC and PC
Search Your Name In Electoral Roll
Correction of Details in Voter ID
If there are any mistakes in your voter ID, you can apply for corrections by submitting Form 8 on the NVSP website or visiting the electoral office.
Conclusion
Applying for a voter ID in India is now a simple process thanks to digitalization. Whether you choose the online or offline method, having a voter ID ensures that you can exercise your right to vote and participate in the democratic process. Make sure to apply and get your voter card before election season!
For more details, visit the Election Commission of India website.