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How to get an Ontario Photo ID Card

March 27, 2025   ·   0 Comments

By Brian Lockhart

Not everyone has a driver’s license they can use to identify themselves and that’s where an Ontario Photo ID card can help.

Government-issued identification is needed for many different things, such as opening a bank account, purchasing alcohol or voting in an election. 

An Ontario Photo Card can be used for day-to-day business transactions and provides proof of identity for domestic travel. It cannot be used for proof of identification for international travel.

An Ontario Photo Card and a driver’s license or a photo ID card from another province, state, or country cannot be held at the same time.

If you have an Ontario Photo Card and apply for a driver’s license, you must turn in your Ontario Photo Card as part of the application process.

You can apply for an Ontario Photo Cara in person at a ServiceOntario centre if you do not have a driver’s license, are a resident of Ontario, and are 16 years of age or older.

When you apply for a Photo Card you will need to bring your original documents, for example, a birth certificate, to prove your legal name and date of birth. If you are applying under your married name, you will need to bring your marriage certificate. 

An Ontario Photo Card is valid for five years, then it must be renewed.

You can apply for a renewal online if you don’t need a new photo.

You are required to get a new photo every 10 years. If you are due for a new photo you must apply for a renewal in person at a ServiceOntario centre.

To renew, you will need to pay a renewal fee of $35 and provide an additional piece of ID if your Ontario Photo Card has expired.

The photo on your Photo Card must be completely visible and free of obstructions, and your face has to have a neutral expression. 

Headwear worn for religious or medical reasons can be worn, but must not cover any part of your face.

You may be asked to remove any head or face wear, such as eyeglasses, when taking a photo for government-issued identification.

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