If you haven’t voted before, voting for the first time might seem daunting. This page will guide you through what you need to do and what will happen on the day of the election.

If you’re 16 or over on 7 May 2026, you can vote in the Senedd election.

First, you need to register to vote.

How do I register to vote?

Registering to vote is quick and easy.  

You’ll be asked for your National Insurance Number, but you can still register if you don’t have one. 

Once you’re on the electoral register, you’ll receive a polling card in the post. This will give you details of where your local polling station is.

What happens at a polling station?

You can go to a polling station on 7 May 2026 to cast your vote. 

Polling stations are set up for the day in local buildings, such as schools or community halls across Wales. You’ll be sent a polling card before the election with details of your polling station.

They will be open from 07.00 until 22.00 to make sure as many people as possible can use their vote.

At your polling station you will be given a ballot paper. You will have one vote for the party or independent candidate you want to represent you in the Senedd.

There will be clear instructions on how to fill in your ballot paper, and the polling station staff can help if you have any questions. 

You can find further information about what happens on election day on the Electoral Commission website. 

do I need to take my polling card with me?

No, you do not need to take your polling card with you. You can still vote even if you’ve lost or misplaced it.

Do I need to bring ID with me?

No, you do not need to bring ID to vote in a Senedd election.

Do I have to go to a polling station to vote?

No. You can also choose to vote by post, or to vote by proxy. 

vote by post

If you know that you won’t be able to get to the polling station on 7 May 2026, you can apply to vote by post. You don’t need to give a reason why you want to vote by post.

Find out more about how to vote by post. on the Electoral Commission website. 

Vote by proxy

A proxy vote means you choose someone you trust to vote on your behalf. This can be helpful if you have a medical issue or disability that stops you going to a polling station, or if you’re planning to be abroad on election day.

Find out more about voting by proxy on the Electoral Commission’s website. 

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What is my constituency?
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How does the Senedd work?
A photo showing people sitting outside Snowdon Mountain Railway Station. The area is busy with people sitting at several picnic tables and talking. A photo showing people sitting outside Snowdon Mountain Railway Station. The area is busy with people sitting at several picnic tables and talking. A photo showing people sitting outside Snowdon Mountain Railway Station. The area is busy with people sitting at several picnic tables and talking. A photo showing people sitting outside Snowdon Mountain Railway Station. The area is busy with people sitting at several picnic tables and talking.

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