Newcomers and students in Ontario often need government ID quickly for banking, phone plans, rentals, and age-based purchases. Two common options are the Ontario Photo Card (for non-drivers) and an Ontario driver’s licence (G1/G2/G). This guide explains which one to choose, what each costs, how long it takes, and how to change your address on time.
Quick verdict: which ID should you get?
- If you won’t drive in the next 6–12 months: get the Ontario Photo Card. It’s $35, valid 5 years, and you can’t hold it together with a driver’s licence.
- If you plan to start driving soon: go straight to G1 (knowledge test + licence). Your driver’s licence is valid government photo ID and you must update its address within 6 days when you move.
Ontario Photo Card vs driver’s licence Comparison table
| Feature | Ontario Photo Card | Ontario Driver’s Licence |
|---|---|---|
| Who it’s for | Ontario residents without a driver’s licence | New or experienced drivers |
| Can you hold both? | No — you cannot hold both at the same time | No — must surrender Photo Card if licensing |
| Minimum age | 16+ | 16+ (G1) |
| Typical cost | $35 (new/renew, 5 years) | $90 (5-year renewal; other fees for tests/replacement) |
| Processing time (by mail) | Usually 4–6 weeks | Usually 4–6 weeks |
| Address change deadline | In-person or by mail; change promptly | Within 6 days of moving (law) |
| Where to apply | ServiceOntario centre (in person) (https://www.ontario.ca/page/serviceontario) | DriveTest/ServiceOntario (https://drivetest.ca/) / ServiceOntario |
| Key docs | Acceptable ID documents proving legal name & DOB | ID docs; knowledge/road tests for G1/G2/G |
Costs and fees (what to budget)
- Ontario Photo Card: $35 to get or renew for five years.
- Driver’s licence: standard $90 for a 5-year renewal; replacements typically $35.75. (Knowledge/road tests have separate fees.)
Tip for students: If you only need ID for banking/phone and won’t drive soon, the Photo Card is the cheapest, simplest path.
Processing times (what to expect)
- Mailing time: both Photo Cards and driver’s licences generally arrive within 4–6 weeks after your ServiceOntario visit. You get a temporary paper confirmation to use meanwhile.
Eligibility and documents
- Photo Card: for Ontario residents aged 16+ who do not hold a driver’s licence. You cannot have both at the same time; applying for one cancels the other. Bring acceptable identity documents proving your legal name and date of birth. Permanent residency/citizenship is not required.
- Driver’s licence (G1/G2/G): you’ll need ID, must pass tests (knowledge/vision then road), and follow graduated licensing rules.
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Address changes: deadlines and how to do it
- Driver’s licence & vehicle permit: by law, update your address within 6 days of moving. You can do it online; your new licence arrives by mail in about 4–6 weeks.
- Ontario Photo Card: update in person at ServiceOntario or by written request (mail-in). Expect a new card by mail; plan for a similar 4–6 weeks.
Mini case: first-semester student in Toronto
Amar lands in August and won’t start driving until next summer. He needs ID for a bank account and a phone plan now.
- Choice A: Photo Card — pay $35 once; card arrives in ~4–6 weeks; use passport as backup in the meantime.
- Choice B: Start driver licensing — multiple visits and test fees; a licence still arrives by mail in ~4–6 weeks.
For this semester, Choice A is simpler and cheaper.
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Step-by-step checklist
- Decide your path: Photo Card (no driving soon) or G1 licensing (driving within a year).
- Gather ID documents (name, DOB).
- Visit ServiceOntario (Photo Card) or DriveTest + ServiceOntario (licensing).
- Keep the temporary paper confirmation until the card arrives.
- When you move, update your DL/vehicle address within 6 days; update your Photo Card promptly in-person or by mail.
FAQ
Can international students get the Ontario Photo Card?
Yes. You must be 16+, live in Ontario, and not hold a driver’s licence. PR or citizenship is not required.
Can I keep my Photo Card when I pass G1/G2/G?
No. You can’t hold both; the Photo Card will be cancelled once you’re licensed.
How fast will my new card arrive after an address change?
Expect 4–6 weeks by mail; you’ll get temporary proof at ServiceOntario.
How much does a driver’s licence cost?
A standard 5-year renewal is $90; other fees apply for tests or replacing a lost card.
Key takeaways
- Choose Photo Card if you won’t drive soon; choose G1 if you will.
- You cannot hold both a Photo Card and a driver’s licence.
- Budget $35 (Photo Card) or $90 for a 5-year licence renewal.
- Update your DL/vehicle address within 6 days; expect 4–6 weeks for new cards by mail.
