The electoral register

Information on the electoral register

The electoral register lists the names and addresses of everyone who’s registered to vote.

We make and keep 2 versions of the register - the full register and the open register. You can choose whether or not you appear on the open register.

  • The full register - lists the name and address of everyone who is registered to vote. We hold a copy. Anyone can look at it, but it's a criminal offence to supply or use copies for purposes other than those set out in law. The main use of the full register is to show who can vote in elections and referendums. Credit reference agencies can use it, but only to check your name and address if you are applying for credit and other purposes specified in law. It can also be used by law enforcement.
  • The open register - an extract of the electoral register. It's not used for elections. It can be bought by any person, company or organisation to confirm names and addresses. Your name and address will be included in the open register unless you ask for them to be removed. Removing your details from the open register does not affect your right to vote.​

You can find more information about the full electoral register and open register on the government's website: