AN AYRSHIRE MSP is urging voters to make sure they know the rules around voter ID for the upcoming General Election. 

The July 4 poll will be the first UK-wide election in which photo identification will be required to vote, and the first ever election in Scotland where rules on voter ID will apply.

A certificate must be applied for if you do not already have an approved form of identification. 

The deadline for applications for a voter authority certificate is June 26, and Katy Clark, who represents the West Scotland region for Scottish Labour, is urging voters to be prepared. 

She said: “This will be the first general election where new voter ID laws are in effect. This means that if you do not already have photo identification, you will need to apply for a certificate when you go to vote.

“The cut-off date is Wednesday, June 26 and I would strongly encourage people to apply early via the gov.uk website.

"Do not miss your chance to have your say in one of the most important elections in a generation."

Acceptable forms of photo ID include a UK or Northern Ireland photocard driving licence, a driving licence issued by an EU country or by Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein, the Isle of Man or any of the Channel Islands, a passport issued by an EU or Commonwealth country or by Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein, a disabled Blue Badge or a Defence Identity Card.

Travel passes such as a Scottish National Entitlement Card can also be used, and you can still use your photo ID even if it has expired as long as the photo looks like you.