Step-by-Step Guide for First-Time and Returning Voters: How to Get a Voter’s Card (PVC) in Nigeria

The PVC is your official license to participate in Nigeria’s elections and How to Get a Voter’s Card (PVC) in Nigeria is what we are here to guide you on. Without it, you cannot legally vote in presidential, gubernatorial, legislative, or local government elections. It’s not just a card it’s your voice, your power, and your constitutional right.

In Nigeria, politics isn’t just something you watch on TV or scroll past on social media it directly affects your daily life, from fuel prices to education, healthcare, and even the cost of bread. Yet, one of the most powerful tools citizens have to influence politics is often underused: the Permanent Voter’s Card (PVC).

Unfortunately, many Nigerians miss out on voting because they either don’t know how to get a PVC, start too late, or assume the process is too complicated. The truth? Getting a PVC in Nigeria is straightforward if you know what to do, where to go, and when.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know:

The types of voter registration
Eligibility requirements
Where and how to register
How to transfer or replace a lost PVC
Common mistakes to avoid
And tips to make the process easier

By the time you’re done reading, you’ll have zero excuses not to get yours.

What is a PVC and Why Is It Important?

The Permanent Voter’s Card (PVC) is issued by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). It contains your biometric details including your name, photograph, date of birth, and fingerprint and is used to verify your identity on election day.

Why You Need It:

To Vote Without a PVC, you cannot participate in elections.
To Influence Change Complaining about bad governance without voting is like refusing to eat but still complaining about hunger.
For Identification In some cases, PVCs are accepted as a valid form of ID in Nigeria.
To Avoid Disenfranchisement Elections happen every four years, and if you miss registration, you might have to wait a long time.

Eligibility Requirements for a PVC in Nigeria

Before heading out to register, you need to know if you qualify. According to INEC, you are eligible to register for a PVC if you:

Are a Nigerian citizen
Are at least 18 years old
Have not registered before (first-time voters)
Have relocated and need to transfer your PVC to your new location
Have lost, damaged, or need to update your PVC details

Types of Voter Registration in Nigeria

INEC allows for different registration processes depending on your situation:

Fresh Registration For people who have never registered before.
Transfer of PVC For voters who have moved to a new area and want to vote there.
Replacement of PVC For lost, stolen, or damaged cards.
Update of Voter Information For correcting errors in your details (e.g., name, date of birth).

Step by Step Process to Get a PVC in Nigeria

Step 1: Know the Registration Period

PVC registration is not open all year round. INEC usually announces Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) periods well ahead of elections. These periods can last several months but close a few months before the election date.

Tip: Follow INEC’s official website and verified social media accounts to get timely updates.

Step 2: Pre-Register Online (Optional but Faster)

In recent years, INEC has introduced an online pre-registration portal:

Visit https://cvr.inecnigeria.org
Create an account using your email and phone number
Fill in your personal details
Upload supporting documents (like a birth certificate or national ID for proof of age)
Choose a date and time for your biometric capture at an INEC center near you

This saves time because your data will already be in the system when you arrive.

Step 3: Visit a Registration Centre

If you prefer, you can also register directly in person without online pre-registration.

Where to Register:

INEC state and local government offices
Designated registration centres in wards
Special registration points in schools, markets, and other public places during the CVR period

What to Take Along:

Any valid proof of identity (National ID card, passport, driver’s license, birth certificate, etc.)
Yourself you must be physically present for biometric capture (fingerprints and photograph)

Step 4: Biometric Capture

At the centre, INEC officials will:

Verify your documents
Take your fingerprints and photograph
Confirm your details

You will receive a temporary voter’s slip don’t lose it! You will need it to collect your PVC later.

Step 5: Collection of PVC

INEC will announce when PVCs are ready for collection. This could take a few weeks to months, depending on the registration phase. Go to the same center where you registered, present your temporary slip, and collect your PVC.

How to Transfer Your PVC to Another Location

If you’ve moved to a new city, state, or ward, you can transfer your PVC so you can vote where you now live.

Steps:

Visit the INEC portal or go in person to an INEC office in your new location.
Fill out a transfer form.
INEC will verify your registration.
Your voting details will be updated, and you’ll collect your PVC from your new location.

How to Replace a Lost or Damaged PVC

Losing your PVC does not mean losing your voting rights.

Steps:

Report the loss to INEC immediately.
Fill a replacement form.
Provide your voter information or temporary slip (if available).
Your replacement PVC will be issued.

Common Mistakes Nigerians Make During PVC Registration

Waiting until the last minute Registration centres are overcrowded near deadlines.
Not bringing valid ID This can delay the process.
Registering twice This is illegal and can get you disqualified.
Not collecting the PVC Many Nigerians register but fail to pick up their cards.
Wrong details Always double-check your information before leaving the centre.

Tips for a Smooth PVC Registration Process

Go early in the day to avoid long queues.
Check INEC’s official site for the nearest registration centre.
Keep your temporary slip safe.
If possible, pre-register online before visiting a centre.
Avoid political party agents who promise to “help” you register faster stick to official INEC officials.

Why Many Nigerians Don’t Have PVCs And Why That Needs to Change

Millions of eligible Nigerians still do not have PVCs. Common excuses include:

“My vote won’t count” Yet, low turnout benefits corrupt politicians.
“Registration is stressful” The process has been simplified in recent years.
“I’m too busy” If you can stand in line for concerts, food, or sports tickets, you can stand in line for your future.

WhatsnextNG Conclusion

Your PVC is more than just a card — it is your power to shape Nigeria’s political future. Every great change in history started with individuals deciding to act. If you want better roads, healthcare, education, and governance, the first step is to register, collect your PVC, and vote.

Don’t let apathy, misinformation, or procrastination silence your voice. Elections come once in four years, but the consequences last much longer. Get your PVC today — because Nigeria’s future is not just in the hands of politicians, it’s in your hands too.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) On PVC Registration in Nigeria

1. Who is eligible to register for a PVC in Nigeria?

Any Nigerian citizen who is 18 years or older and has never registered before is eligible to get a PVC. You must also be physically and mentally fit to vote and provide valid proof of identity when registering.

2. How much does it cost to get a PVC in Nigeria?

It is completely free. INEC does not charge for voter registration, transfer, or PVC replacement. If anyone asks you for money, report them immediately to INEC.

3. Can I register for my PVC online?

Yes, you can start the process online via the INEC Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) portal at https://cvr.inecnigeria.org. However, you must still visit a physical registration centre for biometric capture.

4. I already have a PVC, do I need to register again?

No. If you already have a valid PVC, you do not need to register again unless you need to transfer your voting location, replace a lost card, or correct your details.

5. How long does it take to collect a PVC after registration?

It can take a few weeks to several months, depending on the registration phase. INEC will announce when PVCs are ready for collection in your area.

6. Can I transfer my PVC to another state or ward?

Yes. You can transfer your PVC to a new voting location if you have moved. Visit an INEC office in your new area and request a transfer form.

7. What should I do if I lose my PVC?

Report the loss to INEC and request a replacement. You may need to provide your voter information or a temporary slip if available.

8. Can I register for PVC on election day?

No. Voter registration closes several months before elections. You must register during the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) period announced by INEC.

9. Is my PVC valid for life?

Yes, as long as your details remain the same and the card is not damaged or lost. However, you must update your information if you relocate or change your name.