Ontario Introducing Optional Digital Credentials While Guaranteeing Access to Physical I.D.

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Toronto - As part of its plan to strengthen digital security and give people more choice and convenience, the government is beginning a phased introduction of digital provincial credentials. This process will include proposed legislative changes that would permanently guarantee Ontario residents' access to physical versions of these credentials, while supporting the government's work to lower costs and provide more convenience to Ontario residents.

"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."

Digital credentials would support a more seamless and connected customer experience while providing an added layer of security by reducing the risk of lost or stolen identification and identity theft. Starting in late 2026, the province will begin consultations to help shape the development of digital credentials. This process will also allow the province to explore potential cost-savings for government and taxpayers as a result of digital credentials.

Following these consultations, the government intends to introduce a digital version of the Ontario Photo Card, which is a government-issued photo identification card for Ontario residents who do not have a driver's licence. It provides official proof of identity and can be used for everyday transactions such as opening a bank account, accessing services, and proving identity when required. Today's announcement, subsequent consultations and Ontario Photo Card use case testing will support the safe and secure introduction of optional digital driver's licences and health cards at a later date.

The province intends to introduce legislation in late 2027 that would protect Ontarians' right to obtain and use only physical identification. Digital credentials would be optional, offering more choice and flexibility for Ontarians. The province will engage ministries, stakeholders and the public to inform this work and ensure any changes are introduced in a way that protects privacy, builds public trust and meets the needs of Ontarians.

As Ontario continues to build a more competitive, resilient and self-reliant economy, the province is finding new ways to cut red tape, protect taxpayer dollars, reduce costs and make government services more efficient. More information about how the government continues to make progress on its plan to protect Ontario will be included in the 2026 Fall Economic Statement, which will be released on October 29, 2026.

Quick Facts

Quotes

"Our government is focused on innovation as part of our plan to make life more convenient for families and businesses across the province. Digital options will offer families a convenient, secure, and fraud-proof method of accessing public and business services as we continue to grow our province."

- Prabmeet Sarkaria
Minister of Transportation

"As part of our plan to protect Ontario, our government is taking innovative action to build a more connected and convenient health care system. Advancing plans to provide optional access to secure digital credentials, including health cards, is one of many ways we are doing just that."

- Sylvia Jones
Deputy Premier and Minister of Health

"Our government is improving efficiency and giving people more choice and convenience by embracing innovation. By offering secure access to digital credentials, we are making life easier for people and businesses to access the services they need. This initiative will help deliver faster, simpler and more accessible services across the province."

- Peter Bethlenfalvy
Minister of Finance

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