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No driver’s license? Ontario photo ID card available as form of identification

January 22, 2026   ·   0 Comments

By Brian Lockhart

The Ontario Photo Card is a wallet-sized card that serves as government-issued identification for Ontario residents who do not have a driver’s license.

This makes it easier for residents to open a bank account or perform other activities that require official identification.

Ontario Photo Cars can be used for day-to-day business transactions and as proof of identity for travel within Canada.

You cannot use an Ontario Photo Card for international travel.

It is important to note that you cannot have an Ontario Photo Card and a driver’s license, or a photo ID card from Ontario or another province, state, or country, at the same time.

When applying for an Ontario Photo Card, you must surrender your existing Ontario driver’s license, foreign driver’s license, or photo identification.

You must inform Service Ontario if you ever had an Ontario driver’s license – even if it is suspended or cancelled.

If you already have an Ontario Photo Card and apply for a driver’s license, you must surrender your Ontario Photo Card; it will be cancelled.

You can apply for an Ontario Photo Card 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 applying, you will need to bring original identity documents, such as your birth certificate, to verify your legal name and date of birth.

An Ontario Photo Card is valid for five years. At the end of the five-year period, the card must be renewed. You are required to get a new photo for the card every 10 years.

If you are due for a new photo, you must renew your card in person at a ServiceOntario centre.

There is a $35 renewal fee.

Once your application is complete, your new Photo Card will be delivered by mail within four to six weeks.

The submitted photo on your Ontario Photo Card must meet certain standards.

Your whole face must be completely visible.

Nothing can block your face – your hair should not cover your eyes.

You should keep a neutral and relaxed expression – do not smile.

Look straight at the camera – do not tilt your head.

Wearing headwear for religious or medical reasons is allowed, but it must not cover your face.

You may be asked to remove items such as hats, eyeglasses, or headphones before your photo is taken.

You can change your address on your Ontario Photo card either online or in person at a ServiceOntario centre. 

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