The Ontario Photo Card serves as a government-issued identification card for Ontarians who do not possess a driver’s licence.
It offers convenience for various activities, such as opening bank accounts and providing proof of identity for domestic travel within Canada.
However, please note that it is not valid for international travel.
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Coexistence of Ontario Photo Card and Other IDs
An Ontario Photo Card and a driver’s licence or photo ID from Ontario or another jurisdiction cannot be held simultaneously.
If you have a driver’s licence or photo ID from any province, state, or country, you must surrender it when applying for a Photo Card.
Ensure you inform ServiceOntario about any previous Ontario driver’s licence, including suspended or canceled licences, to avoid delays in obtaining your Photo Card.
Obtaining an Ontario Photo Card
You can apply for an Ontario Photo Card in person at a ServiceOntario center if you meet the following criteria:
- You do not have a driver’s licence.
- You are a resident of Ontario.
- You are 16 years of age or older.
Required Documents for Application:
- Original identity documents (e.g., birth certificate) to establish your legal name and date of birth.
- If applying under a married name, provide your marriage certificate.
Note: If you already have a driver’s licence and wish to obtain an Ontario Photo Card, you must surrender your driver’s license.
Applying for the Photo Card will result in the cancellation of your driver’s licence. Reapplying for an Ontario driver’s licence may require you to undergo tests and observe waiting periods.
Renewing Your Ontario Photo Card
A Photo Card is valid for five years, after which it must be renewed. Online renewal is available if a new photo is not required. However, you must renew in person at a ServiceOntario center if a new photo is due.
Requirements for Renewal:
- Renewal fee: $35
- Additional ID (only if your Photo Card is expired)
- Online Renewal: Renew your Photo Card now Sign Up for Renewal Reminders:
- In-person Renewal: Find a ServiceOntario center
Cost and Delivery:
Cost: $35 for obtaining or renewing your Photo Card. The fee may vary depending on your Ontario health card renewal date.
Payment Options:
- In person: Visa, Mastercard, debit, cash, certified cheque
- Online: Visa and Mastercard
- Delivery: Expect your Ontario Photo Card to arrive by mail within 4 to 6 weeks.
Photo Requirements
The photo on your Ontario Photo Card must meet specific criteria:
- Completely visible and free of obstructions.
- A neutral expression.
- Headwear worn for religious or medical reasons is allowed but must not cover any part of your face.
- You may be asked to remove any head or face wear (e.g., eyeglasses) when taking a photo for government-issued identification.
Changing Information on Your Photo Card
Address Change:
To change the address on your Ontario Photo Card, visit a ServiceOntario center with your Ontario Photo Card or send a written request including your full name, photo card number, current address, and new address to the provided address.
Mail your request to:
ServiceOntario
P.O. Box 9200
Kingston, ON
K7L 5K4
Height and Address Changes:
Any changes to your Ontario Photo Card, including your address and height, require an in-person visit to a ServiceOntario center. You do not need to bring anything other than your card.
Date of Birth Changes:
To change or correct your date of birth on your Photo Card, visit a ServiceOntario center and bring one of the following documents:
- Birth certificate (Note: Quebec birth certificates issued before January 1, 1994, are not accepted)
- Certified copy of statement of live birth (government-issued)
- Canadian citizenship card with photo
- Canadian certificate of Indian Status
- Permanent resident card
- Permanent resident form (IMM5292) (must be accompanied by a valid foreign passport)
- Record of landing (IMM 1000) (must be valid and cannot be laminated)
Reclaim a Traditional Indigenous Name
Survivors of residential schools and their families can reclaim their traditional Indigenous names. Learn more about reclaiming your traditional Indigenous name.
Adding French Characters to Your Photo Card
To add French characters (e.g., ç, è, é, ê, ë) to your Photo Card, provide proof of your legal name with the characters according to the list of accepted original identity documents.
Find a ServiceOntario center for assistance.
Changing the Sex Designation on Your Photo Card
Changing from M to F or F to M:
To change the sex designation on your Ontario Photo Card from male (M) to female (F) or vice versa, visit a ServiceOntario center with a valid birth certificate.
Changing to X (Gender Neutral):
To change the sex designation on your Ontario Photo Card (OPC) to an X (gender-neutral), visit a ServiceOntario center. No supporting documents are required.
Retaking the Photo on Your Ontario Photo Card
If you are unsatisfied with the photo on your Photo Card, you can have a new photo taken at a ServiceOntario center. The cost for this service is $10.
Replacing a Lost, Stolen, or Damaged Ontario Photo Card
To replace a lost, stolen, or damaged Photo Card, complete the Ontario Photo Card application form available at a ServiceOntario center and provide proof of your legal name and date of birth. The cost for this service is $10.
