Getting a Provincial Photo ID Card in Canada if You Don't Drive

Having a government-issued photo ID is essential for daily life in Canada. You need it to open a bank account, pick up packages, verify your identity at medical appointments, and handle countless other routine tasks. While many Canadians use their driver's licence as their primary ID, newcomers who do not drive — or who have not yet obtained a Canadian licence — can get a provincial photo ID card instead. Every province and territory in Canada offers this option, and this guide explains exactly how to get one, province by province.

Your passport and immigration documents (such as your Confirmation of Permanent Residence or work permit) are valid identification in Canada. However, carrying your passport everywhere is risky — if it is lost or stolen, replacing it is expensive and time-consuming. A provincial photo ID is a safer, more convenient alternative for daily use.

See also: How to Apply for Canadian Permanent Residence

Ontario — Ontario Photo Card

The Ontario Photo Card is available to Ontario residents who do not hold a valid Ontario driver's licence. You cannot hold both at the same time.

• Cost: $35.00
• Valid for: 5 years
• Where to apply: Any ServiceOntario location in person
• Required documents: One original document proving your legal name and date of birth (passport, COPR, or birth certificate), one document proving your Ontario address (utility bill, bank statement, or lease agreement), and your legal status in Canada
• Processing time: Your card is mailed to you within 4 to 6 weeks
• Website: ontario.ca/page/ontario-photo-card

British Columbia — BC Services Card

In BC, the BC Services Card serves as both your photo ID and your health card. When you enrol in the Medical Services Plan (MSP), you automatically receive a BC Services Card with your photo.

• Cost: Free (combined with MSP enrolment); standalone non-driver photo ID (BCID) costs $35
• Valid for: 5 years
• Where to apply: Any Service BC location or ICBC driver licensing office
• Required documents: Two pieces of ID, including one with a photo (passport, PR card) and one with your name and signature or date of birth
• Processing time: Mailed within 2 to 3 weeks
• Website: gov.bc.ca — BCID

Alberta — Alberta Photo Identification Card

• Cost: $34.45
• Valid for: 5 years
• Where to apply: Any Alberta registry agent office (not government offices directly — Alberta uses private registry agents)
• Required documents: One primary ID (passport or PR card), one supporting ID, and one proof of Alberta residency
• Processing time: Mailed within 2 to 3 weeks; you receive a temporary paper ID at the time of application
• Website: alberta.ca/get-id-card

Quebec — No Standalone Photo ID Card

Quebec does not offer a provincial photo ID card for non-drivers. Instead, newcomers in Quebec can use their:

See also: Replace Lost PR Card Guide

• RAMQ health card (Carte d'assurance maladie) — with photo, available from the Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec. Apply at a RAMQ office with your immigration documents, proof of Quebec residence, and a completed registration form.
• Passport — as primary photo ID
• PR card — once received

Some newcomers in Quebec choose to get a learner's driving permit from the SAAQ (Société de l'assurance automobile du Québec) as a practical photo ID even if they do not intend to drive, since it costs only $12.30 and is widely accepted.

Manitoba — Manitoba Enhanced Identification Card

• Cost: $30.00
• Valid for: 5 years
• Where to apply: Any Manitoba Public Insurance (MPI) service centre
• Required documents: Proof of legal name, date of birth, Canadian citizenship or permanent residence, and Manitoba residency
• Processing time: Approximately 2 to 4 weeks by mail

Saskatchewan — Saskatchewan Photo ID Card

• Cost: $15.00
• Valid for: 5 years
• Where to apply: Any SGI (Saskatchewan Government Insurance) motor licence issuer
• Required documents: Primary identification (passport or COPR), secondary ID, and proof of Saskatchewan address
• Processing time: Temporary paper ID issued same day; permanent card mailed within 2 to 3 weeks

Atlantic Provinces

Nova Scotia

• Cost: $27.25
• Valid for: 5 years
• Where to apply: Any Access Nova Scotia location
• Required documents: Two forms of acceptable ID (passport, PR card, or COPR) and proof of Nova Scotia address

New Brunswick

• Cost: $25.00
• Valid for: 4 years
• Where to apply: Service New Brunswick offices
• Required documents: Primary photo ID and proof of New Brunswick residence

Prince Edward Island

• Cost: $15.00
• Valid for: 5 years
• Where to apply: Access PEI locations

Newfoundland and Labrador

• Cost: $25.00
• Valid for: 5 years
• Where to apply: Motor Registration Division offices

Territories

The Yukon, Northwest Territories, and Nunavut all offer general identification cards for non-drivers. Costs typically range from $15 to $30. Apply at your territorial motor vehicle office with your passport, immigration documents, and proof of local address.

See also: Canadian Citizenship Application Guide

Documents You Should Gather Before Applying

Regardless of which province you are in, having the right documents ready before your visit will make the application process smooth and prevent wasted trips. Most provincial ID offices accept the following as primary identification:

• Valid passport — This is typically the strongest form of ID and is accepted everywhere in Canada
• Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) — The document you received when you landed in Canada as a permanent resident
• Permanent Resident card — If you have already received it (usually mailed 60 to 90 days after landing)
• Work permit or study permit — For temporary residents who are eligible for provincial ID in their province
• Canadian citizenship certificate — For naturalized citizens

For proof of address, most provinces accept a lease or rental agreement, a utility bill (electricity, gas, water, or internet) dated within the last 90 days, a bank statement, or an employment letter showing your address. If you are living with someone and do not have bills in your name, some provinces accept a signed letter from your host along with their proof of address. Check your province's specific requirements before visiting the office.

See also: Canada Student Visa Guide

It is also worth noting that many newcomers apply for their provincial photo ID at the same time as they register for provincial health insurance, since both processes require similar documentation and are often handled at the same government office or nearby locations. Combining both errands into a single trip can save you valuable time and effort during your first weeks in Canada. For complete details on health card registration by province, visit canada.ca health care by province.

Tips for Newcomers Getting Provincial Photo ID

1. Apply as soon as you have a permanent address — Most provinces require proof of your provincial address. Once you have signed a lease or moved into permanent housing, apply immediately.
2. Bring extra documents — Bring more ID than you think you need. If one document is not accepted, having backups saves you a return trip.
3. Book an appointment where possible — Some ServiceOntario, ICBC, and other provincial offices accept appointments. Walk-in wait times can be 1 to 3 hours in busy urban locations.
4. Keep your temporary paper ID safe — Several provinces issue a temporary paper ID on the spot while your plastic card is being mailed. This temporary ID is valid for most purposes.
5. Update your address if you move — If you move before receiving your card, contact the issuing agency immediately to update your mailing address.

Why Provincial Photo ID Matters

Beyond convenience, having a provincial photo ID helps you build your Canadian identity and simplifies interactions with banks, employers, landlords, and service providers. Many institutions are more familiar with provincial ID cards than with foreign passports or immigration documents, making transactions smoother.

For a complete list of everything you need to set up in your first weeks in Canada, use our settlement checklist. It covers photo ID, banking, health care, phone setup, and dozens of other essential tasks. If you have questions about ID requirements in your specific province, our AI chat assistant can provide tailored guidance.