With the Bihar Assembly Elections scheduled for November 6th and November 11th, 2025, the election commission is urging voters to be ready to cast their votes. However, if you've misplaced or forgotten your voter ID card, you might be wondering how to prove your identity at the polling booth.

Don't worry! There are several alternative documents you can use to prove your identity and ensure you can vote without any hassle. Below are the 12 key documents that can help you establish your identity on election day.

1. Aadhaar Card

The Aadhaar card is one of the most widely accepted forms of identification in India. It contains both demographic and biometric information, making it a reliable option for confirming your identity at the polling station.

· Tip: Carry a printout or wallet PLATFORM' target='_blank' title='digital-Latest Updates, Photos, Videos are a click away, CLICK NOW">digital copy of your Aadhaar card on election day.

2. Passport

A valid passport is an official government-issued document that confirms your identity and citizenship. If you don't have your voter ID but possess a passport, it will be accepted as proof of identity at the polling booth.

· Tip: Ensure your passport is not expired and that it contains your latest photograph.

3. Driver’s License

A valid driver’s license issued by the state government is another reliable option. This document contains your full name, photograph, and other key details, making it easy to verify your identity.

· Tip: Keep the physical copy of your driver’s license or a wallet PLATFORM' target='_blank' title='digital-Latest Updates, Photos, Videos are a click away, CLICK NOW">digital version on your phone.

4. Ration Card

A ration card is a useful document for proving your identity and residence, especially in rural areas. The card is issued by state governments and lists the head of the family along with other family members.

· Tip: Make sure the ration card has your photograph and correct details.

5. Voter Slip (if issued)

Sometimes, the election commission provides voters with a voter slip ahead of the election. This slip contains your polling station details and voter ID number. If you've lost your voter ID, the voter slip can be a useful document to confirm your identity.

· Tip: If you receive the voter slip, carry it with you on election day as a supplement to other documents.

6. PAN Card

The Permanent Account Number (PAN) card, which is primarily used for financial transactions, is also a valid proof of identity. This card contains your photo, name, and unique PAN number.

· Tip: Ensure that your PAN card is updated with your latest details, especially your photograph.

7. bank Passbook or Statement

If you have a bank passbook or bank statement with your name and photograph, it can be used as proof of identity. It’s a helpful document if you’ve lost your voter ID but still need a reliable form of identification.

· Tip: A bank passbook or statement with recent entries is preferred to validate your identity.

8. government Employee ID Card

If you are employed with the government, your government-issued employee ID card can be used as a valid identification proof. This card typically contains your photograph, designation, and personal information.

· Tip: Carry the original employee ID card to the polling station.

9. MNREGA job Card

For rural voters, the Mahatma gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MNREGA) job card can serve as valid identity proof. This card has your name and photograph, ensuring your eligibility to vote.

· Tip: Make sure the job card has the updated details of your name and photo.

10. Pension Document

If you are a senior citizen, a pension-related document (such as pension receipts or statements) that carries your name, photograph, and other personal details can also be accepted as identity proof.

· Tip: Make sure your pension document is up-to-date and correctly reflects your details.

11. Photo Identity Card Issued by a Recognized Educational Institution

A photo ID card issued by a recognized educational institution can be used for young voters. This includes ID cards issued by colleges and universities, and it must have your photograph and personal details.

· Tip: The educational institution’s ID card should be officially recognized and have your updated photo.

12. Voter Registration Acknowledgement Slip

If you’ve recently applied for a voter ID card and have received an acknowledgement slip, it can serve as provisional identity proof. This slip contains your name, photograph, and the date you registered.

· Tip: If you’ve lost your voter ID but received the acknowledgement slip, carry it to help you confirm your voter status.

How to Ensure Smooth Voting Without Your Voter ID

While these documents will serve as valid identity proof, here are a few additional tips to ensure your voting process goes smoothly:

A. Cross-Check Your Voter Details

Before heading to the polling booth, make sure your details are updated in the electoral roll. You can do this online via the National Voter’s service Portal (NVSP) or by checking the voter list at your polling station.

B. Carry Multiple Proofs

If possible, carry two or more documents from the list above, as it can help speed up the verification process at the polling booth.

C. Check Your Voter Slip

If you have received a voter slip, bring it along, as it contains your polling booth details and will help in the verification process.

D. Ensure Documents Are Up-to-Date

Make sure all documents, especially your Aadhaar card, passport, or driver’s license, are valid and contain the correct personal details.

Conclusion: Be Prepared for the bihar election 2025!

As the Bihar Assembly Elections approach, it’s crucial to be well-prepared for the voting process. If you’ve misplaced or forgotten your voter ID, there’s no need to worry! With these 12 documents, you can still prove your identity and exercise your right to vote. Just ensure you have the right documents ready, check your details in advance, and you’ll be all set to participate in the democratic process.

Make sure to check your name in the electoral roll, carry one or more forms of ID, and stay updated with any last-minute election guidelines from the Election Commission.

Disclaimer:

The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency, organization, employer, or company. All information provided is for general informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, reliability, or suitability of the information contained herein. Readers are advised to verify facts and seek professional advice where necessary. Any reliance placed on such information is strictly at the reader’s own risk.