Corporate Services and IT
Register of Electors
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1-2: Finding Names
Q3-4: New Electors & Draft Register
Q5-6: Versions of the Register
Q7-8: Polling Cards
Q09: Being Abroad
Q10: Voters with Disabilities
Q11: Polling Stations
Q12: Current Councillors
1) I cannot find my name through the search facility on your website...
In order to comply with Data Protection regulations, our system is set up to only confirm exact details that are input on the query page. Where a person has used a shortened version of his/her name, this will not be located - eg. Anthony McVeigh could be registered as Tony McVeigh. Also the system needs a house number to search and cannot search a house name.
2) Why was my name taken off the Register?
During the summer months, our inspectors make house-to-house calls to verify the information on the Register and make any necessary changes. Where the Inspector cannot gain access or make contact, a form (RFA) is left with the householder for completion and return.
The information compiled is then published as the Draft Register in November of each year. It is made available for examination at Post Offices, public libraries, Garda Stations and Local Authority offices or you can check it on our website.
3) I will not be 18 years of age by 15th February, but will be 18 before polling day, can I be included on the Register?
You can apply to be included on a Supplement by completing a Supplement Application Form (RFA2) having the form witnessed at a Garda Station and returned to us two weeks before polling day.
4) How can I check the Draft Register?
You can check our website or ring the Register Section - alternatively, you can go to a Library, Council Office, Post Office or Garda Station.
5) Where can I get a copy of the Register?
The full Register of Electors is not available to the public - this is due to legal requirements in relation to personal confidentiality. However, the Edited Register is available from Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council for a fee. For more information on the Edited Register , please see the answer to Question No. 6.
6) I am concerned that my details will be available to others and I will receive junk-mail?
Since 2004, registration authorities are required to publish two versions of the Register - the Full Register and the Edited Register. The full register lists everyone who is entitled to vote and can only be used for an electoral or other statutory purpose. The edited Register contains the names and addresses of persons whose details can be used for a purpose other than an electoral or other statutory purpose e.g. direct marketing use by a commercial or other organisation. To ensure your details are not included on the Edited Register, choose the 'opt-out box' on the registration form.
7) Is there anything I can do if it is Polling Day and I have mislaid or not received my Polling Card?
Firstly you should contact our office at 2054880 and clarify that you are registered at your correct address and have the correct status/nationality. Once these two details have been confirmed as correct, you can then be given directions to the correct Polling Station in order for you to use your vote.
8) I have mislaid my polling card. Can I still vote?
The polling card is not mandatory for voting. However, even if you have received a polling card, you will need to bring one of the following documents as proof of identification:
- Passport
- A current Driving Licence
- An Employee identity card containing a photograph
- A student identity card issued by an educational institution and containing a photograph
- A Travel document containing name and photograph
- A Bank or Savings or Credit Union book containing address
- A temporary Residence Certificate card
- A cheque card*
- A credit card*
- A birth certificate*
- A marriage certificate*
*The last 4 items must be accompanied by a further document which established the address of the holder in the constituency or local electoral area.
9) If I am abroad while the Register is being compiled, can I continue to remain on the Register even though I am not residing at my home address?
You can remain on the Register if you intend to return to your residence within 18 months.
10) I have a disability - what special arrangements have been put in place for me?
The website of the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government contains information for voters with disabilities (see link below).
Information for voters with disabilities (opens in a new window)
11) Where can I find my Local Polling Station?
The location of Polling Stations are reviewed in the run-up to any election/referendum.
Find your Polling Station location
12) Who are my Current Local Councillors?
List of Current Local Councillors