The Indian government launched the ‘Digital Abhiyan’ on July 1, 2015, allowing for the digitization of government documents and services. A key component of this initiative is the ‘Voter’s Helpline App,’ offering an online platform for requesting a Voter Card. This app has simplified and expedited the process of obtaining a new Voter Card, making it user-friendly.

Every Indian citizen aged 18 and above has the right to vote. Eligibility to request a Voter Card begins at 18 years of age. Even those who reached voting age long ago but lack a Voter ID can use the Voter’s Helpline App to initiate the request conveniently from home, eliminating the need for a visit to a government office.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to apply for a new Voter ID card online:

Step 1: Go to the Play Store or App Store, depending on your device, and install the ‘Voter Helpline’ app provided by the Election Commission of India.

Step 2: After successful installation, open the app, accept the terms and conditions, and click on ‘Next.’

Step 3: Choose your preferred language and click on ‘Get started.’

Step 4: In the personal vault section, click on ‘Voter registration.’

Step 5: Choose ‘New voter registration (Form 6)’ from the list of forms.

Step 6: Click on’Let’s start.’

Step 7: Enter your mobile number, receive and verify the OTP.

Step 8: Choose “Yes, I am applying for the first time” and click ‘Next.’

Step 9: Select your State, District, Assembly constituency, enter your date of birth, and upload a document as proof.

Step 10: Upload your photo, specify gender, and enter your full name.

Step 11: Enter details of a family member with a Voter Card, provide your Aadhaar number, and proceed.

Step 12: Enter your full address, select ‘Aadhar card’ as proof, and upload a picture.

Step 13: Complete the declaration by entering district, state, village or town, date of birth, full name, and current residency location. Click ‘Done’ after cross-checking.

Step 14: Once submitted, note the reference ID given.

Step 15: Return to the home page, click ‘explore,’ and select ‘status of application.’

Step 16: Enter your reference ID, click ‘Track status,’ and check the status of your voter card.

After successful submission, you will receive an SMS when your physical Voter ID is ready, and you can download the digital copy from the dashboard. The entire process takes 15 to 30 days for verification, and the physical Voter ID arrives within three to six months. Share this guide with friends and family for their benefit.