Scottish Election 2026: Do I need my ID to vote? Should I take my polling card? What you need to vote in Scotland
The 2026 Scottish election has arrived - here’s what you need to take with you to vote.
The Scottish election has arrived, with the country heading out to the polls to decide who will be their MSPs for the next five years.
Unlike a general election which affects the whole of the UK, the rules surrounding Holyrood elections differ slightly when it comes to what you need in order to have your say.
Here’s what you need to vote in Scotland - and if you need to take your ID or polling card with you when you do.
Do you need ID to vote in Scotland?
If you live in Scotland, you do not need to take photo ID with you to vote.
This differs from UK parliament elections, where it has been a requirement to take photographic ID such as a driving licence, passport or a Voter Authority Certificate with you to vote since 2024.
For most local elections, such as those in Scotland, photo ID is not necessary.
Do I need my polling card to vote in Scotland?
Similarly, while you will have been sent it in the weeks leading up to the election, you do not need to take your polling card with you to vote.
It provides the exact polling station you are registered to vote at - the only location where you may cast a vote in the 2026 Scottish election - but it isn’t necessary to take with you.
You can find your polling station here.
What do I need to vote in Scotland?
To vote in Scotland you do not need either your poll card or photo ID - you just need to take yourself to the polling station.
Anyone over the age of 16 who has registered will be able to cast a vote.
You will be issued your ballot papers at the venue - typically a school, community centre or church hall - and stationary will be provided for you.
Mobile phones are allowed inside the polling stations for accessibility purposes only (such as magnification), but photography inside the location is strictly prohibited. Images taken inside polling stations can result in fines or imprisonment.
Sign up for our Steamie politics newsletter, here.
When will the Scottish election results be announced?
Unlike past elections, this year there will be no overnight vote count. Ballots will not be counted until tomorrow morning (Friday, May 8) with results expected to begin arriving throughout the afternoon.
A fuller picture of the results is likely to take shape by the early evening, with complete results to follow later.
You can find out more about expected timings for constituency results here.
If you would like to know more, here is your guide to The Scotsman's Holyrood election results coverage.
Comments
Want to join the conversation? Please or to comment on this article.