Ontario has announced plans to introduce a digital version of government-issued photo identification. The proposed digital Ontario Photo Card is aimed at providing photo identification for individuals in Ontario who do not possess a driver’s license, as stated by the province’s ministry of public and business service delivery and procurement. This initiative is part of the province’s efforts to offer Ontarians more flexibility and convenience in accessing government services.
Minister of Public and Business Service Delivery and Procurement, Stephen Crawford, highlighted the goal of enhancing security, convenience, and cost-effectiveness in identification processes through the implementation of digital credentials. The province aims to ensure that the introduction of digital credentials prioritizes the protection of privacy for residents.
While the digital Ontario Photo Card will be made available, Ontarians will still have the option to use physical versions of the card. The government plans to introduce legislation in the coming year to safeguard individuals’ rights to choose between physical and digital identification methods. Additionally, discussions will take place regarding the potential introduction of digital driver’s licenses and health cards in the future.
The Ontario government emphasized that digital IDs will offer increased security measures, reducing the risks associated with lost or stolen identification documents and identity theft, while also leading to cost savings for the government.