Register to vote

• If you don’t register to vote, you will lose your right to have your say about who is elected to run Newham, London or the UK.
• You can register to vote if you are 16 years of age and over but you will not be able to vote until you’re 18.
• It is a criminal offence to refuse to complete the registration form or to give false information, carrying a fine of up to £1,000.

There are other benefits of being on the electoral register. 

• The electoral register is used by credit reference agencies to check your name and address if you are applying for credit.  Such agencies are allowed by law to have a copy of the register.
• If your name is not on the register, you may not be able to get credit, a mortgage or a mobile phone contract until you do.
• The electoral register helps your prove your identity and home address.
• Schools may use the electoral register to check that you live within their catchment area and help you get your children into the school of your choice.
• The Council may check the register when you request a resident’s parking permit.