How to apply for voter ID online: Form 6, status and e-EPIC

Quick answer: Apply on voters.eci.gov.in or the Voter Helpline app using Form 6 (new voter). Upload a photo, age proof and address proof, submit, and save your reference number to track status. After a Booth Level Officer (BLO) verifies your details, you get an EPIC number — download the digital e-EPIC from the same portal. It's free, and you can apply from age 17 in advance.

Key takeaways

• Registering is free — no fee at any stage.
• You can apply at 17 and get added once you turn 18 on one of four dates: 1 Jan, 1 Apr, 1 Jul, 1 Oct.
• Use Form 6 for new registration, Form 8 for corrections, address change or a replacement card.
• The e-EPIC PDF is a valid photo ID at the polling booth.
• Having a card isn't enough — your name must be on the electoral roll. Check before every election.

Voting is your right, and getting a voter ID (officially the Elector's Photo Identity Card, or EPIC) is now almost entirely online. This guide covers new registration, corrections, shifting to a new address, downloading e-EPIC, and what to do if your application gets stuck.

#Who can register

• Indian citizens aged 18 or above on a qualifying date.
• Ordinarily resident at the address you give — you can be registered at only one place.
• Young people can apply from age 17. Your name is added once you turn 18 on the next qualifying date: 1 January, 1 April, 1 July or 1 October.

Warning: Registering in two places is an offence. If you've moved, use Form 8 (shifting) instead of a new Form 6 — it removes the old entry for you.

#Documents you need

If you have no age proof (for example, people over 21 without documents), the form allows a declaration and the BLO may verify in person.

#Step-by-step: apply with Form 6

1. Go to voters.eci.gov.in (or open the Voter Helpline app) and sign up with your mobile number and email. Verify with OTP.
2. Log in and choose Fill Form 6 — New registration for general electors.
3. Select your state, district and assembly constituency — use the one where you currently live.
4. Enter your name, date of birth, gender and the name of a relative (father, mother, husband or wife).
5. Add contact details and, optionally, your Aadhaar number.
6. Enter your current address and how long you've lived there.
7. Upload your photo, age proof and address proof.
8. Add any disability details if you want facilities at the booth.
9. Fill the declaration, preview and submit.
10. Save the reference number shown on screen and in the SMS.

Tip: Write your name exactly as on your age proof. A spelling difference is the most common reason a BLO marks an application "rejected".

#What happens after you apply

1. BLO verification. A Booth Level Officer may visit your home or call you to confirm you live there.
2. Approval by the ERO. The Electoral Registration Officer accepts or rejects the application.
3. EPIC number generated. You get an SMS with your EPIC number.
4. Card delivery. The physical PVC card is posted to your address; the e-EPIC can be downloaded at once.

Applications are often processed within a few weeks, but it can be faster or slower depending on the area and whether an electoral roll revision is going on.

#Track your application

• Go to voters.eci.gov.in → Track Application Status.
• Enter your reference number and state.
• Status steps: Submitted → BLO appointed → Field verified → Accepted / Rejected.

#Download your e-EPIC

1. Log in to voters.eci.gov.in.
2. Click E-EPIC Download.
3. Enter your EPIC number or reference number and verify with OTP.
4. Download the PDF. It has a secure QR code and can be saved in DigiLocker.

Your mobile number must be linked to your voter record to receive the OTP. If it isn't, update it through Form 8.

#Which form do you need?

#Change address or correct details (Form 8)

1. Log in and select Form 8.
2. Choose Shifting of residence (within or outside your constituency), Correction of entries, Issue of replacement EPIC, or Request for marking as PwD.
3. Enter your EPIC number, make the changes and upload proof (new address proof for shifting).
4. Submit and track using the reference number.

#Check your name in the electoral roll

Before every election, check that you're listed:

• voters.eci.gov.in → Search in Electoral Roll
• Search by EPIC number, by details (name, age, district), or by mobile number
• Note your part number and polling station

You can also call the voter helpline 1950 (add your STD code from a landline).

#Common problems and fixes

#Frequently asked questions

Is there a fee for voter ID?

No. Registration, corrections and e-EPIC download are free.

Can I vote with e-EPIC?

Yes. e-EPIC is a valid photo ID. You can also vote with other approved IDs, such as Aadhaar or a passport, if your name is on the roll.

Is Aadhaar mandatory for voter ID?

No. Giving Aadhaar is voluntary.

How long does it take to get a voter ID?

Often a few weeks after verification. The e-EPIC can be downloaded as soon as the EPIC number is generated.

Can I apply before turning 18?

Yes, from age 17. Your name is added once you turn 18 on the next qualifying date.

How do I change my address on voter ID?

Use Form 8 and choose "Shifting of residence", with proof of your new address.

Can students register where they study?

Yes, students living away from home can register at their hostel or college address, but only at one place.

#Sources

• Election Commission of India — Voters' Service Portal
• Election Commission of India — Official website
• ECI — Electoral search