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How to Apply for Voter ID Card Online and Offline: A Comprehensive Guide

TeamAckoApr 19, 2024

Applying for a voter ID online has become a convenient method for many. The Voter ID card, a crucial document for Indian citizens to participate in elections, can be obtained both online and offline. Let's delve into the details of how to apply for a voter ID card online and through offline methods.

Illustration on how to apply for voter id online

Contents

Eligibility Criteria to Apply for Voter ID in India

Before we discuss the process, it's important to understand the eligibility requirements for obtaining a Voter ID.

Basic Requirements to Apply for Voter ID Card Online

Age: You've got to be 18 or older. No exceptions.
Citizenship: Indian citizen is the keyword here. Sorry, United States or any other country, this isn't for you.
Mental Health: A court-declared mental incapacity disqualifies an individual.

Special Cases

Non-Resident Indians (NRIs): Form 6A is available for application.
Residents of Uttar Pradesh: You guys have your own set of rules. Check your state election website for the nitty-gritty.

Essential Documents to Apply for Voter ID Online and Offline

After checking off the eligibility criteria, the next step is to submit your documents. A selfie will not suffice, as you will need to provide proper paperwork to verify your identity.

The Must-Haves

Proof of Age: Birth certificate or 10th-grade mark sheet.
Proof of Address: Utility bill or bank passbook indicating permanent address.
Proof of Identity: Aadhaar, PAN card, or other official documents.
Photograph: A passport-sized photograph is required.

In the next sections, we'll dive into the actual application process, both online and offline, and how to track your application status. So, keep reading!

How to Apply for Voter ID Card Online: Step-by-Step Process

If you're tech-savvy and prefer convenience, you can complete this task from home. The Election Commission of India has made the online process easy. Let's go through the steps.

Visit the National Voter's Service Portal: This portal serves as the online gateway to electoral lists and subject matters related to voting.
Complete the Application Form: Fill out Form 6 for Indian voters or Form 6A for NRIs. For changes in the assembly constituency, use Form 8A.
Upload Relevant Documents: Original scanned documents are required for proof of age, address, and identity.
Submit and Track Status: After submission, monitor your voter card application status through the Voter Portal or Voter Helpline Mobile Application.

Quick Document Checklist for Online Voter ID Application

Type of Document	Examples
Proof of Age	Birth Certificate, 10th-grade mark sheet
Proof of Address	Utility Bill, Bank Passbook
Proof of Identity	Aadhaar, PAN Card
Photograph	Passport Sized

How to Apply for Voter ID Card Offline

Steps for Offline Registration:

Locate the Nearest Election Office: Visit your local electoral office for form collection.
Fill Out the Form: Complete Form 6 and double-check all relevant details.
Submit Original Documents: Provide all essential documents for verification.
Track Application Status: Keep tabs on your status by contacting the electoral office.

Advantages of Choosing to Apply for Voter ID Online: Why It's Better Digital

Still on the fence about going online? Let's tip the scales.

Speed and Convenience: The online process is efficient.
Easy Tracking: Track the status of your voter application online.
Eco-Friendly: Less paper consumption.

Verification Steps after You Apply for Voter ID Card Online or Offline

After submitting your vote, the verification process begins. The Election Commission of India acts as a detective to confirm your identity.

Online Verification

If you have applied online, you will receive an email or SMS instructing you to confirm your details. By clicking the link and following the simple steps, you will be verified. This process is carried out by the Election Commission to ensure the accuracy of your application form and relevant information.

Offline Verification

If you choose to vote offline, be prepared for a visit by a Booth Level Officer (BLO) who will verify your original documents and possibly ask some questions. It is similar to a pop quiz, but for the purpose of ensuring a fair democratic process.

Whether you've applied online or offline, you'll need to wait for your name to appear in the voter list. This is the final stamp of approval. You can check the status of your voter application by visiting the Voter Portal or using the Voter Helpline Mobile Application.

Transition from Old to New Voter ID

Updating your voter ID is a straightforward process if you have an old ID or have recently moved.

Forms

Form 8 should be used for updating details, while a new Form 6 might be necessary for a complete overhaul. And if you're switching constituencies, remember to fill out Form 8A.

The Document Shuffle

You'll need to submit the same set of documents as you did for your original voter ID. So, dig out that birth certificate, proof of address, and a fresh passport-sized photograph.

The Final Step

Once your application is approved, you will receive your new voter ID either by post or as an e-PIC Voter ID for download purposes. Once you have your voter ID, you will be ready to participate in the next assembly elections.

Wrapping up

Whether you choose the online or offline route for your election card application, the process is designed to be straightforward. The Election Commission of India has streamlined the procedures to ensure that all eligible Indian citizens can participate in democratic elections. Your Voter ID is not just an official document; it's your voice in the assembly elections.

Why It Matters

The Voter ID is not just another card for your wallet. It is your ticket to democratic elections, your voice in assembly elections, and your say in the future of the nation. Whether it arrives in your mailbox or as a downloadable e-PIC Voter ID, remember that it holds more value than just plastic and ink.

Tips for a Smooth Experience

Double-Check: Always double-check the information you provide. Accurate details are the cornerstone of a successful application.
Track Status: Whether you apply online or offline, keep an eye on your application status. Use the Voter Portal or Voter Helpline Mobile Application for real-time updates.
Safekeeping: Once you get that card, keep it safe. It's an essential document, after all.

Things to Remember Before a Voter ID Application

Obtaining a Voter ID in India is essential for exercising democratic rights, requiring applicants to be 18 or older, mentally sound, and without criminal or financial issues. Form 6 must be filled out accurately through the NVSP website or approved centres, with correct personal details. Verification of provided information and documents is crucial upon receiving the ID. Ensuring accuracy and legality in the process maintains the integrity of voter registration, fostering a fair democratic system in India.

Voter ID Verification

To confirm the authenticity of their Voter ID, applicants can utilise their Voter ID number. They should begin by verifying if their names are listed in the electoral roll and then cross-check the details provided. Any inconsistencies should be promptly reported to the Chief Electoral Officer for resolution. Here are the steps to verify a Voter ID:

Go to the National Voters' Services Portal.
Navigate to the 'Search in Electoral Roll' section.
Choose one of the search options: 'Search by Details', 'Search by EPIC', or 'Search by Mobile'.
Input the required information and initiate the search.
Your details will be shown on the screen, and you can verify their accuracy by selecting 'View Details' under the 'Action' column.

Following these steps enables individuals to ensure the legitimacy of their Voter ID, contributing to the integrity of the electoral process.

Steps to Take In Case You Don't Get Voter ID

If your Voter ID hasn't arrived yet, don't panic. Follow these steps:

1. Log in to the NVSP portal.

2. Access 'Track Application Status'.

3. Enter your reference number from the form submission, choose your state, and click 'Submit'.

4. Check the updated status of your application.

Typically, it takes around 30 days for the Voter ID to arrive after applying online. If there are issues with receiving it, visit the state election office for assistance.

NRI Voter ID

Non-resident Indians (NRIs) can participate in the voting process by applying for Voter IDs online or offline, provided they don't hold citizenship in another country. However, NRIs must physically be present in India and their respective constituency to cast their votes; remote voting is not yet permitted. This ensures that NRIs can exercise their democratic right to vote while maintaining the integrity of the electoral process.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Below are some of the frequently asked questions on Applying for Voter Card Offline and Online

Can I apply for a duplicate Voter ID?

Absolutely. If you've lost your card or it's damaged, you can apply for a duplicate voter ID both online and offline. You'll need to fill out the form for voter card correction and provide the necessary proof documents.

How do I change my residential address?

To update your residential address, simply complete Form 8A and provide proof of your new address. This can be done either online or offline.

What if I'm not an Indian voter but want to vote in India?

If you're an NRI, you can still vote. You'll need to fill out Form 6A and provide the relevant documents to prove your eligibility.

How long does it take to get a Voter ID?

The time can vary, but generally, it takes about 2 to 3 weeks after your application has been verified and your name appears in the voter list.

Can I use my Voter ID as a valid proof of identity?

Absolutely. Your Voter ID is a valid proof of identity and can be used for various verification processes, including as a proof for voters in different scenarios.

What if I find an error in my Voter ID?

If there are any errors, they can be corrected by completing the correction form and providing the necessary documents for verification.

Disclaimer: The content on this page is generic and shared only for informational and explanatory purposes. It is based on several secondary sources on the internet, and is subject to changes.