The Ontario government is taking the first steps to introduce digital identification cards that will give residents the option to keep their official credentials on their phones instead of relying solely on physical cards.
Keeping your digital credentials on your phone would be completely optional under the proposed changes, which would permanently ensure Ontario residents can maintain access to their physical ID cards.
“As we modernize government services, we are making identification more secure, convenient and cost-effective,” said Stephen Crawford, Minister for Public and Business Service Delivery and Procurement.
“Digital credentials will provide a trusted and seamless way to present identification, helping to protect personal information while maintaining the right of all Ontario residents to use physical ID.”
The province says digital credentials support a more seamless customer experience while also providing an additional layer of security by reducing the risk of lost or stolen identification. Those with digital credentials could store their ID on their mobile devices and use it to access services in person or online.
Starting later this year, the provincial government is set to begin consultations that will help shape the development of digital credentials. Following these consultations, the province plans to introduce a digital version of the Ontario Photo Card, a government-issued photo ID card for residents who do not have a driver’s license.
Additional consultations and digital Ontario Photo Card testing are set to support the introduction of optional digital driver’s licenses and health cards at a future date.
By the end of 2027, the Ontario government wants to introduce legislation that would protect the right of Ontario residents to obtain and use only physical ID cards, with digital credentials optional.