Ontario residents could soon keep their ID cards on their phones

The Ontario government is taking the first steps toward introducing digital identification cards, which will give residents the option of keeping 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 include permanently guaranteeing that Ontario residents can maintain access to their physical ID cards. 

"As we modernize government services, we're making identification more secure, convenient and cost-effective," said Minister of Public and Business Service Delivery and Procurement, Stephen Crawford.

"Digital credentials will provide a trusted and seamless way to present identification, helping protect personal information while retaining every Ontario resident's right to use physical I.D."

The province says digital credentials would support a more seamless customer experience while also providing an added layer of security by reducing the risk of lost or stolen identification. Those with digital credentials would be able to store their ID on their mobile devices and use them 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 licence.

Additional consultations and the digital Ontario Photo Card testing are set to support the introduction of optional digital driver's licences and health cards on a future date. 

In late 2027, the Ontario government intends to introduce legislation that would protect Ontario residents' right to obtain and only use physical ID cards, with digital credentials being optional.