First-Time Voter Registration in India: A Simple Step-by-Step Guide

You just turned 18, and suddenly you realise you can actually do something that millions of people fight for—vote. But there’s a catch. You can’t just walk into a polling booth on election day and cast your vote. You need to be on the electoral roll first. That’s where voter registration comes in.

The whole thing used to be a paper-based nightmare involving forms, visits to the block office, and waiting weeks to hear back. Now it’s online, it’s simple, and honestly, it’s a relief. If you have 15 minutes and a phone with internet, you can register yourself. Here’s what you need to do if you want to register a First-Time Voter.

Step 1: Checking Eligibility

You can apply to be on the voter list if you:

• Are an Indian citizen.
• Have reached 18 years of age on the qualifying date — usually 1 January of the year of the roll revision.
• Are ordinarily resident in the area where you want to enrol.
• Are not disqualified from voting by law.
• People declared of unsound mind by a competent court or temporarily disqualified under election laws cannot be enrolled.

Step 2: Keep Your Documents Handy

Before opening the website, gather everything you’ll need. This saves time later.

You will need one document that shows your age. Aadhaar, passport, driving licence, or a school certificate all work.

You will also need proof of where you live. This can be your Aadhaar card, electricity or water bill, bank passbook, rent agreement, or ration card.

Add a recent passport-size colour photo in JPG format. The file size should be under 2 MB. You will also need a working mobile number and email ID for OTP verification.

Clear photos or scans make the process easier and reduce the chance of rejection.

Step 3: Find Your Constituency

Your constituency is the electoral area linked to your address. You can look it up by entering your address on the Election Commission website or by checking with your local municipal office.

Knowing this in advance helps while filling out the form.

Step 4: Open the Official Portal

Visit voters.eci.gov.in, the Election Commission of India’s official website for voter services. If you prefer using your phone, the Voter Helpline app works just as well.

Avoid third-party sites or agents. This is the only official route.

Step 5: Register an Account

Click on “Sign Up” and enter your mobile number and email ID. After completing the captcha, you’ll receive OTPs on both.

Once verified, set a password. Keep it safe. You’ll need it to track your application later.

Step 6: Fill Out Form 6

Form 6 is the application used to add your name to the electoral roll as a new voter. You’ll find it under “New Voter Registration”.

You’ll be asked for details like your name, date of birth, gender, and a parent’s name. Enter your full residential address along with the district and constituency. Aadhaar details are optional but helpful. You’ll also need to confirm that you are an Indian citizen and meet the eligibility rules.

Take your time here. Even small spelling errors can slow things down.

Step 7: Upload Supporting Documents

Upload your age proof and address proof in JPG or PDF format. Each file must be under 2 MB and clearly readable.

Next, upload your photograph. Make sure your face is visible, and the image is upright.

Poor quality uploads are a common reason applications get sent back.

Step 8: Submit and Save the Reference Number

Review the form one final time. Once you’re sure everything is correct, submit it.

You’ll receive a reference number instantly. Save it somewhere safe. This number lets you track your application.

What Happens After Submission

Your application is reviewed by the Electoral Registration Officer and the Booth Level Officer for your area. In many cases, a BLO may visit your home to confirm your address.

This stage usually takes a couple of weeks. Your name will first appear in a draft electoral roll. After checks and corrections, it moves to the final list.

Once approved, your physical voter ID card is sent to your address. You can also download a digital version, known as e-EPIC, and store it on your phone or DigiLocker.

How to Check Your Application Status

Log back into voters.eci.gov.in and use the “Track Application Status” option. Enter your reference number and state to see updates.

You can also search for your name on electoralsearch.in. If there’s no movement for a long time, visit your local ERO office for help.

Special Situations to Know About

If you are married and applying from your in-laws’ home but don’t have address proof in your name, a Residential Certificate from the Gram Panchayat is accepted.

If you move houses before your voter ID arrives, update your address using Form 8 on the same portal.

Students can register where they currently live for studies, but your name can only appear in one constituency at a time.

For Indian Citizens Living Abroad

NRIs can apply using Form 6A. Voting from overseas is not allowed yet, so you must be in India on polling day to cast your vote.

Final Word

Registering as a voter doesn’t take long, and it doesn’t cost anything. No one should ask you for money or charge a fee.

Once your name is on the electoral roll, you’re ready for every future election unless you change cities. Voting starts with registration. Take a few minutes, get it done, and make sure your name is on the list.