Voter ID Verification

One of the essential documents that must be procured by an individual residing in the country is a Voter ID. This document not only allows the individual to exercise his/her right to vote but also acts as identification and address proof. Applicants can apply for their Voter ID through online or offline mode. If they want to apply online, they may visit the official website of the Chief Electoral Officer of their state and attain the required forms. The form must be filled and submitted along with the relevant documents. In case an individual wishes to apply offline, he/she will be required to visit the Electoral Registration Office and fill out the forms and submit them along with the required documents. It is essential for individuals to have their documents of identification with themselves since verification cannot be completed without it.

Voter ID Verification in India

Government Website

The applicant must log in to the official website of the ECI (eci.nic.in). This website contains all the details regarding the Voter ID application process. You also learn about the documents that should be submitted during the process.

Fill in the Correct Form

If the applicant is applying for the first time, he/she should fill in the details on Form-6. The applicant will be required to submit the appropriately filled form with the required documents. These documents must be scanned and the passport size images of the applicant should be attached to the application wherever required.

Submission of Official Documents

The applicant must send the original documents to the electoral office that is nearest to your residence. It is advisable for you to submit these important documents in person and to avoid sending them by post.

Process of Verification of Voter Card

After submitting the form along with the documents, they are appropriately verified by the authorities. The electoral officer verifies your address by contacting your neighbors and other members of the society/neighborhood.

Voter Card Verification Application Number

The application number can be used by the applicant to keep track of the status of their application. The application number is assigned by the Election Commission of India when you register for your voters' ID. The number usually has 11 digits.

EPIC (Electors Photo Identity Card) Number

EPIC is a set of unique digits which are generated after the enrolment of an individual for the voter's ID.

What is the Process of Election Card Verification?

The applicants will be initially required to get the form from the official website of the ECI or the nearest Election Office. The application form isn't uniform and different type of application form is valid for different types of individuals. For instance, if a person wishes to register as a voter for the first time, they must procure form 6. If they want to make any changes in the voter ID, they must secure form 8. After obtaining the form, the individuals are required to submit the form along with the scanned copies of the relevant documents and then the information is verified by the booth level officer. After the booth level officer verifies the details provided by the applicant, the applicants can receive their voter ID within 2-3 weeks.

Why is the Voter ID Verification Process so Extensive?

The multiparty system in India creates a highly competitive environment during elections and parties use illegal methods to gain the maximum number of votes which compromises the integrity of these elections. One of the methods through which this can be done is procuring fake Voter ID cards and using them to get multiple votes, illegally. Additionally, a Voter ID can be used numerous times. Strict measures must be taken while issuing the Voter ID cards to curb these illegal and illicit activities and also to preserve the sanctity of the largest democracy of the world.

Voter ID Verification in All States

The process described above is practiced in all states in India. The State Election Commission officers are responsible for conducting the election process and provide voter ID card to eligible citizens. Each state also has a Chief Electoral Officer who is responsible for administering the State Assembly, Lok Sabha and Gram Panchayat elections. The State Election Commission has to work in tandem with the Election Commission of India for the verification of voter ID in each state.

Voter ID Verification without ID Documents

Sometimes individuals ask questions regarding whether it’s possible to get a voter ID without any identification documents. The answer is no. To apply for voter ID card, the applicant is required to provide valid proof of his/her identity.

Individuals have questions regarding whether a Voter ID can be procured or verified without necessary identity documents. However, this is not possible. Applicants will have to compulsorily provide a valid proof of identity and address along with a passport size photo if they wish to receive their Voter ID.

FAQs on Election Card Verification

What is an EPIC number?

EPIC or Electors Photo Identity Card Number is a set of unique digits that is generated when an individual enrolls for an Election/Voter’s ID card.

Is voter ID enough, without an Aadhaar card for passport verification?

Yes. Voter ID is enough for passport verification. However, the applicant must make sure that the address on the voter ID and the address on the passport application match.

What are the ways by which one can track their Voter ID card?

There are three main ways through which one can track their voter ID card:

• Via SMS

• Online through the official website of ECI

• Calling helpline number

How can I monitor the status of the Voter ID online?

You can follow the steps described below to track your voter ID online.

• Visit the official website of Election Commission of India.

• Click on National Voters' Services Portal.

• Click on 'Apply online for Registration of New Voter ID'.

• Fill up the required details. Fill in all the 4 sections of Form 6.

• Click on Submit.

• If you wish to finish the details later click on Save and fill up the details according to your convenience.

• If you wish to change any details provided by you, then you can click on Reset.

• Click on Upload to upload the scanned copies of all the required documents.

• Upload your photograph along with the documents.

• You can check the status of your Voter ID application by using the reference number.

How can one track their Voter ID status via SMS?

You can send an SMS to the electoral office in the following format to track your voter ID

"EPIC <space> Your Voter Application Number."