If you don’t know how to get an Ontario Photo Card, you have come to the right place. In this article, we will show you some important information about the Ontario Photo Card and provide you with a complete guide on how to get your Ontario Photo Card quickly.
What is the Ontario Photo Card?
First, let’s find out what the Ontario photo card is. Ontario photo card is a government-issued ID issued by a ServiceOntario center for those Ontarians who do not have a driver’s license. In addition, it can be used as proof of identity when you need to open a bank account and conduct other day-to-day business activities. You are not allowed to use it as your international travel document. The Ontario photo card will contain your basic information, such as name, birth date, address and gender , etc.
Eligibility to obtain an Ontario Photo Card
Before applying for an Ontario photo card, you must meet the following requirements.
- You don’t have a driver’s licence.
- You are a resident of Ontario.
- You must be 16 years of age or older.
In addition, you may ask what documents I need for an Ontario photo card. Here’s what we will tell you.
- Original identity documents to prove your legal name and date of birth (birth certificate, passport, Canadian citizenship card with photo and student /study permit (IMM 1442))
- Residential address (if different)
- Marriage certificate (if applicable)
- Guardian Signature (if you apply under your married name)
- 2 printed photos
How to apply for the Ontario Photo Card?
After meeting the above requirements, you can obtain your Ontario photo card at ServiceOntario Centre in person. Before you go, you need to book an appointment online first.
Booking an appointment
- Launch ServiceOntario website.
- Type “Ontario Photo Card” in the research bar and click Get an Ontario Photo Card.
- Select the Ontario photo card number you need to apply to your children.
- Choose a location, so you need to pick a ServiceOntario Center that you want to go to.
- Select the date and time you are available.
- Fill in your name, email and phone number to send the booking confirmation message to you. You will also receive a reminder email the day before your appointment.
- Once done, you can submit your appointment.
If you wish to change or cancel your appointment, you can follow the instructions in your confirmation or reminder email. Or you can book an appointment by phone at these ServiceOntario centres up to two weeks in advance (if needed):
- Chatham: Grand and Mitchener
- Dresden: St. George and Main
- Dubreuilville: Des Pins and Épinettes
The day of your appointment
On the scheduled day, you must bring all the necessary supporting documents listed above with you to your appointment. The appointment is only for 15 minutes, so you must arrive on time.
Pay for your fees
It will cost you $35 to get your Ontario Photo Card. You can choose the preferred payment options: Visa, Mastercard, debit, cash, certified cheque.
Get your new Ontario photo card
After you submit all your documents and pay the fee, the officers will process your photo card. You will receive it by mail for 4 to 6 weeks.
How to renew your Ontario Photo Card?
An Ontario Photo Card is valid for 5 years, so you need to renew it when the time comes. There are two ways to apply for a renewal. You can renew Ontario Photo Card online if you don’t need a new photo. You need to update your photo every 10 years. If the photo is due, you must apply for a new one and update your recent photo in person at a ServiceOntario centre. You must pay a renewal fee of $35 and provide an additional piece of identification (only if your Ontario Photo Card is expired). If you apply online, they can only support Visa and Mastercard.
The photo requirements on your Ontario Photo Card
Each ID card has its own photo requirements, so you need to prepare acceptable biometric photos to avoid authorities rejecting your photo. These are the basic photo requirements you need to meet.
- The photo must be taken within the last 12 months.
- The photo size must be 50mm wide and 70mm high.
- You must show a neutral expression, no laughter or gestures.
- All the applicant’s facial features must be clearly visible and in focus, open eyes, closed mouth and visible eyes.
- If you need prescription glasses or headwear for religious or medical reasons, they can’t cover any part of your face.
How to take a photo for the Ontario Photo Card?
You can take a new photo at a ServiceOntario centre, which will cost you about $10. Or you can take a photo yourself at home and upload it to AiPassportPhotos professional passport ID photo editor to get a compliant photo in an affordable way. With AiPassportPhotos, you can save money and get your Ontario photo card photo quickly and safely.
How do I change the information on the Ontario Photo Card?
Yes, if you have changed the information, you also need to update it on your Ontario Photo Card.
Address:
If you have moved to a new address, you can visit a ServiceOntario centre with your Ontario Photo Card. Or you can send a written request with your full name, photo card number, current address, new address to ServiceOntario, P.O. Box 9200, Kingston, ON, K7L 5K4
Date of birth
If you need to change or correct the date of birth, you must visit a ServiceOntario centre and bring one of the following: a birth certificate, a certified copy of a statement of live birth (issued by the government), and a Canadian citizenship card with a photo, etc.
Sex
Change from M to F or F to M
If you need to change the gender designation from male (M) to female (F) or female (F) to male (M), you can go to a nearby ServiceOntario centre and bring an original, valid long or short form birth certificate. However, if you change your gender designation to X (gender neutral), you can visit a ServiceOntario centre without supporting documentation.
Conclusion
All in all, it’s easy to apply for or renew an Ontario identification card. Make sure to book an appointment online before you go to Serviceontario and prepare the required photos. If you need any help, you can leave the comments below.
Erin Lo