New Service Provides Fast, Simple and Accessible Digital Solution
July 02, 2021
TORONTO – The Ontario government is making life easier for Ontario Photo Card holders by providing the option for card renewals online, no longer requiring in-person renewals at a ServiceOntario centre.
The Ontario Photo Card provides Ontarians who do not have a driver’s licence with access to their government-issued identification, making it easier for them to do things such as open a bank account, receive a ballot when voting, and perform any other activities that require official identification.
“Our government recognizes that online renewals provide greater convenience and accessibility for people across the province,” said Caroline Mulroney, Minister of Transportation. “By giving Ontario Photo Card holders an alternative option to renew in-person, we’re helping vulnerable populations and those who have difficulty attending a physical centre keep their ID up-to-date.”
“Our digital-friendly government is committed to providing accessible online services that meet the needs of Ontarians,” said Ross Romano, Minister of Government and Consumer Services. “The Ontario Photo Card online application is a simple and convenient way for Ontarians to renew important identification anywhere, anytime with the click of a button.”
This is the latest service offered as part of the Ontario government’s Digital First Strategy, which commits to designing digital products and services that are user-friendly and simpler, faster and better for people to use.
For those who cannot or choose not to renew online, Ontario Photo Card renewals at a ServiceOntario centre will still be available.
In addition to the new online renewal service, the Ontario Photo Card photo image has been extended from a five-year to a 10-year validity period for all renewals. This allows for the same photo ID image to be used the first time you renew your card, either online or in-person.
“The world has changed and government must change with it. That is why we are working to make Ontario’s programs and services more convenient, more accessible and more user-friendly,” said Peter Bethlenfalvy, Minister of Finance and Minister Responsible for Digital and Data Transformation. “The introduction of online renewals for the Ontario Photo Card is another way we are bringing our province into the 21st century, and moving Ontario onwards.”
Government of Ontario
