Many everyday tasks ask for photo ID, from opening a bank account to picking up a parcel. If you do not drive, the Ontario Photo Card gives you a wallet-sized, government-issued photo ID.
At Friendship House in Brantford, ID matters too: our Food Bank asks for ID and proof of address for everyone in the household. This guide explains how to get an Ontario Photo Card, step by step.
Quick answer
How do I get an Ontario Photo Card?
Apply in person at a ServiceOntario centre. You must be 16 or older, live in Ontario and not have a driver’s licence. Bring original identity documents, such as a birth certificate, that show your legal name and date of birth. The card costs $35 and is valid for 5 years; it arrives in the mail within 4 to 6 weeks.
What the Ontario Photo Card is
According to Ontario.ca’s Ontario Photo Card page (opens in a new tab), it is a wallet-sized card that provides government-issued identification for Ontario residents who do not have a driver’s licence.
It is a simple way to have photo ID if you do not drive, have stopped driving or have never had a licence.
Who can get one
- You do not have a driver’s licence.
- You are a resident of Ontario, not a visitor.
- You are 16 years of age or older.
The card is only for people who do not have a driver’s licence.
Cost and how long it lasts
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Cost to get or renew | $35 |
| Valid for | 5 years |
| Arrives in the mail | Within 4 to 6 weeks |
| Where to apply | In person at a ServiceOntario centre |
In person, you can pay with Visa, Mastercard, debit, cash or a certified cheque.
What to bring
Bring original identity documents that prove your legal name and date of birth, such as your birth certificate. If you are applying under a married name, also bring your marriage certificate.
Photocopies are not enough, so bring the originals. If you have lost your birth certificate, our guide on how to replace lost ID in Ontario (opens in a new tab) explains how to order a new one.
How to apply, step by step
- Gather your original identity documents.
- Find a ServiceOntario centre near you, and book an appointment if one is available.
- Go to the centre in person with your documents.
- Pay the $35 fee.
- Watch your mail for your card within 4 to 6 weeks.
Renew every 5 years
The card is valid for 5 years. Put the expiry date in your calendar so you remember to renew it, and keep your address up to date with ServiceOntario so your new card reaches you.
Using your photo card
An Ontario Photo Card can help when a service asks for government photo ID. At Friendship House, the Food Bank asks for ID and proof of address for everyone in the household; our page on the Food Bank ID requirement (opens in a new tab) explains what to bring.
Keep a photo of the front of your card on your phone, in case it is ever lost.
Why photo ID matters
Without photo ID, simple tasks can turn into long delays. Many places ask for photo ID before they help you, for example:
- opening a bank account or cashing a cheque
- picking up a parcel or registered mail
- applying for some programs and benefits
- proving your age
- some appointments and services
An Ontario Photo Card gives you one trusted card to show in these situations, even if you have never driven.
If you stop driving
Many older adults stop driving and still need photo ID. If you give up your driver’s licence, you can apply for an Ontario Photo Card so you are not left without ID.
Ask ServiceOntario how to handle your licence when you apply, and keep your other documents, such as your birth certificate, in a safe place at home.
Tips for your ServiceOntario visit
- Check the hours of your local ServiceOntario centre before you go.
- Book an appointment if one is available, to save waiting time.
- Bring your original documents in a folder so nothing gets lost.
- Bring a payment method the centre accepts: Visa, Mastercard, debit, cash or certified cheque.
- Ask any questions before you leave, such as when to expect your card.
If your card is lost or stolen
If your Ontario Photo Card is lost or stolen, contact ServiceOntario to replace it. If you think someone is using your ID, report it to the police and watch your bank accounts for strange activity.
Our guide on how to spot a scam (opens in a new tab) explains how to protect yourself from identity theft.
Help with the fee
The $35 fee can be a barrier on a very tight budget. Call 2-1-1 or visit 211 Ontario (opens in a new tab) to ask about local programs.
Photo ID for young people
Teens 16 and older who do not drive can get an Ontario Photo Card too. It can be useful for a first job, a bank account or anywhere photo ID is asked for, and it is good practice for keeping track of important documents.
Parents can help by gathering the original documents, such as the teen’s birth certificate, and going with them to ServiceOntario.
Keeping your ID together
- Keep your photo card in your wallet, and your birth certificate at home in a safe place.
- Keep a list of your ID numbers and expiry dates.
- Store photos of your ID somewhere secure, such as a locked phone.
- Set a reminder a few months before your card expires.
Having your documents organized makes it much easier to apply for benefits, a health card or a job. A simple folder at home is all you need.
Questions to ask at ServiceOntario
- Which documents do I need for my situation?
- How do I pay, and what is the fee today?
- When should I expect my card in the mail?
- What should I do if it does not arrive?
Other ID to think about
You may also need other documents for work and benefits, such as your health card and Social Insurance Number. See our guides on how to apply for a Social Insurance Number (opens in a new tab) and how to apply for OHIP (opens in a new tab).
Free help in Brantford
Friendship House at 452 Grey Street serves coffee, tea and a light breakfast from 8 a.m. and a hot meal Monday to Thursday, 10 to 11 a.m. Everything is free and open to everyone; see our free services (opens in a new tab).
Frequently asked questions
Who can get an Ontario Photo Card?
Ontario residents who are 16 or older and do not have a driver’s licence.
How much does an Ontario Photo Card cost?
It costs $35 to get or renew.
How long is an Ontario Photo Card valid?
It is valid for 5 years.
Where do I apply for an Ontario Photo Card?
In person at a ServiceOntario centre. You may be able to book an appointment ahead of time.
How long does it take to get the card?
Ontario.ca says your new card arrives in the mail within 4 to 6 weeks.
Having photo ID makes many everyday tasks easier. Gather your documents, visit ServiceOntario, and stop by our free services at Friendship House (opens in a new tab) for a warm meal.
