How to Register to Vote in India?
Being a responsible citizen in the largest democracy in the world, it is important to cast your vote to choose the best political party. And for that, you need to have a Voter ID that will allow you to decide who runs your country. But remember, you are allowed to vote only if you are 18 years old or above. So, how to register to vote in India? Below we explain the process in detail for your convenience.
Quick Introduction
India is currently the biggest democracy in the world, and voting is an essential part of it. So, if you are over 18, you must enroll as a voter with the Election Commission of India (ECI). This way, you can easily participate in the voting process and get your voter ID card.
A valid voter ID will help the government regulate the process and improve your country’s demographics. You will be glad to know that registration for a voter card is an easy process and can be done online sitting at your home.
Who is Eligible to Register to Vote in India?
To be eligible to avail of a voter ID, it is essential that you fulfil the following criteria:
- Citizen of India
- 18 years of age or above
- Should be a permanent resident of India
How Do You Register for a Voter ID in India?
Just follow the steps given below to register for a Voter ID in India. This whole process can be done in both online and offline way and will be completed in a matter of minutes.
Online Method for Voter ID Registration
- The first step is to visit the official portal of Voter Services India.
- Look for the “Sign Up” option on the homepage. You will find it in the top right corner of the homepage.
- A form will appear on your screen prompting you to fill in your name, number, and email ID. Make sure to fill in the captcha code correctly.
- Click on “Continue” and then you will receive an OTP on your registered email. Fill in the OTP to complete the verification process.
- You will be redirected to the Homepage where you are required to Log in by filling in your given email ID and password.
- Click on the “Fill Form 6A” button. You will find it on the “New Registration for General Electors” tab.
- Enter all the details asked for in the form. This usually includes your personal details, Aadhar number, DOB, and your address details. Upload all the documents required and submit them. Make sure to follow all the instructions regarding file size and format.
- Double-check all the information that you provided and click on “Submit”.
After you submit the Form 6A, your verification process will begin. All your documents will be checked and authenticated. If everything goes smoothly, your voter ID will be delivered to you by speed post to the mentioned address in 12-20 days.
In case you already have your voter ID and want to update your address or have to make a correction, you can do that easily by filling up the "Form 8". You can fill it online through the Voters' Service Portal as well.
Offline Method for Voter ID Registration
If you are not comfortable with the online way of registering for a voter ID, here is the offline method to do it:
- Visit the nearest Electoral Registration Office/ Assistant Electoral or Booth Level Registration Officers and avail of two copies of Form 6.
- Fill out the form with the required details and attach all the copies of the documents specified.
- Double-check all the information and hand over the form to the respective electoral officer in your polling area. If that is not possible, send the form by post addressed to the electoral officer.
If there is any issue during the process, please feel free to dial the number helpline number “1950” for help. Remember to add in your STD code before the number “1950”
Final Note
This was how to register to vote in India. Now, this was both an online and offline way of doing that. Citizens cannot vote in India if they do not have voter registration. With the steps mentioned above, It is pretty easy to obtain your Voter ID. One should definitely exercise their right to vote and choose the rightful representative!
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