What is a Voter ID Card?
The Voter ID Card, officially known as the Electors Photo Identity Card (EPIC), is issued by the Election Commission of India to individuals eligible to vote. This card not only serves as proof of identity during elections but also plays a key role in maintaining the integrity of the electoral process by reducing fraud and ensuring the accuracy of the voter list. It’s commonly referred to as the election card, voter’s card, or simply, Voter ID.
Structure and Features of a Voter ID Card
The Voter ID card is a government-issued identity document that contains essential details such as:
- Unique identification number (EPIC number)
- Voter’s photograph
- State or national hologram
- Full name of the cardholder
- Father’s name
- Gender
- Date of birth
- Residential address
- Signature of the issuing officer on the back
How to Apply for a Voter ID Online
To register for a Voter ID online:
- Go to the official Voter Services Portal at https://voters.eci.gov.in.
- Sign up by creating an account.
- Enter your mobile number and captcha under ‘Indian Resident Elector’ and proceed.
- Fill out Form 6 with accurate information.
- Upload the necessary documents and photograph.
- Submit the form.
Offline Voter ID Application Process
To apply offline:
- Collect two copies of Form 6 from your nearest Booth Level Officer or Electoral Registration Office.
- Submit the completed forms along with required documents in person or via post.
- For any help, you can call the helpline at 1950.
What is the EPIC Number?
The EPIC number is a unique alphanumeric code printed on every Voter ID card. It acts as the official voter identification number, allowing individuals to vote and verify their status on the electoral roll. It is typically located above the photo on the card.
How to Find EPIC Number Online
To retrieve your EPIC number:
- Visit the Voter Services Portal.
- Click on “Search in Electoral Roll”.
- Choose to search by EPIC, details, or mobile number.
- Enter the captcha and click ‘Search’.
Required Documents for Voter ID Application
To apply for a Voter ID, the following are mandatory:
- Proof of identity
- Proof of address
- A recent passport-sized photo
Eligibility Criteria:
- Must be an Indian citizen
- Minimum age of 18 years
- Resident of the constituency
- Must not be legally disqualified from voting
Track Your Voter ID Application Status
To check your application status:
- Go to https://www.nvsp.in/.
- Click on ‘Track Application Status’.
- Enter your registered details (mobile, email, or EPIC number).
- Use the OTP to log in and view status.
How to Verify Your Voter ID
To verify your Voter ID details:
- Visit the NVSP portal and click ‘Search in Electoral Roll’.
- You can verify using EPIC number or personal information.
Download Voter ID Using EPIC Number
Steps to download e-Voter ID:
- Visit https://voterportal.eci.gov.in
- Log in or create an account.
- Select ‘e-EPIC Download’.
- Enter your EPIC number or registered mobile number.
- Verify using OTP and download the digital card.
If your mobile number doesn’t match, complete the KYC process before downloading.
Download Voter ID via Voter Helpline App
Steps to use the app:
- Download the Voter Helpline App from Play Store or App Store.
- Go to ‘Personal Vault’.
- Enter mobile number, password, and OTP.
- After logging in, view and download your e-EPIC card.
Forms for Voter ID Services
Depending on your requirement, use the appropriate form:
- Form 6: New registration or change of constituency
- Form 6A: For NRIs
- Form 8: Corrections in details
- Form 8A: Change of address within the same constituency
- Form 7: To add or remove names from the roll
- Form 6B: For linking Aadhaar with Voter ID
- Form M/12C: For Kashmiri migrants voting in special cases
Didn’t Receive Your Voter ID?
If your card is delayed:
- Visit your District Election Officer (DEO) with your reference number.
- Track your application status on the official website.
Upload Voter ID in DigiLocker
To add your Voter ID to DigiLocker:
- Download the e-EPIC card.
- Upload the PDF file to your DigiLocker account.
Important Points Before Applying
- Applicants must be 18+ years old.
- No criminal or bankruptcy history.
- Submit through official government portals only.
- Ensure all details are accurate and verifiable.
Who Issues the Digital Voter ID?
On National Voters’ Day (January 25), the Election Commission of India launched the e-EPIC in 2021. It’s a non-editable, downloadable PDF version of your Voter ID, similar to an e-Aadhaar.
Voting Without a Voter ID
If you’re registered but don’t have your Voter ID on polling day, you can still vote using any of the following documents:
- Passport
- PAN Card
- Aadhaar Card
- Driving License
- Bank/Post Office Passbook with Photo
- Government-issued employee ID
- Pension or Health Insurance Smart Card
- MNREGA Job Card
- Smart Card from National Population Register
Update or Change Your Voter ID
To upgrade your old card to an e-EPIC:
- Visit the NVSP portal.
- Log in using your credentials.
- Download the updated card.
Correct Errors in Your Voter ID
To update incorrect details:
- Visit the NVSP portal.
- Log in with your credentials.
- Fill out Form 8 and upload supporting documents.
- Submit the request and wait for ERO verification.
Voter ID for NRIs
NRIs can register to vote if they are in India during elections. To apply:
Online:
- Visit NVSP.
- Select “Register as Overseas Voter”.
- Fill Form 6A and submit.
Offline:
- Fill out Form 6A.
- Submit it with self-attested documents to the Electoral Officer.
Correcting Voter Roll Entries
To make corrections in the electoral roll:
- Go to NVSP and select “Correction of Entries”.
- Highlight the change and upload valid documents.
- Alternatively, visit the nearest election office.
What Information Does a Voter ID Contain?
Your Voter ID card includes:
- Hologram and serial number
- Your photo and signature
- Full name and parent’s name
- Gender and age
- Full residential address
Uses of a Voter ID Card
- Proof of identity for various government services
- Confirms voter registration status
- Prevents double voting through physical marking
- Allows voting even for those without permanent housing
- Enables electoral participation across state lines
Importance of Voter ID
- Acts as valid ID across institutions
- Enables voting rights
- Aids in enrolling in a different constituency after relocation
- Streamlines election processes in a vast democracy
- Prevents voting fraud and ensures transparency
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I track my Voter ID via SMS?
A: No, status tracking is only available online via NVSP.
Q: How long is the e-EPIC valid?
A: It remains valid unless there are changes to your Voter ID.
Q: Can I vote without my physical card?
A: Yes, if you are on the electoral roll and carry valid alternate ID.
Q: How long does it take to receive a Voter ID?
A: Usually between 5 to 7 weeks after application.
Q: Can a non-citizen vote?
A: Only Indian citizens, including NRIs, are eligible to vote.
Q: What’s the EPIC number?
A: A unique ID number on your Voter ID, used for identification and verification.