The Ontario government said steps have been taken to make it easier for residents to keep their government photo ID cards and licence plates up to date.
Ontario's Ministry of Public and Business Service Delivery said that residents can now sign up to get digital reminders — by email, text or phone call — for 60 days and 30 days before it is time to renew a specific card.
The province said the new service provides a convenient way to get notified when the photo cards are set to expire. All Ontarians are also encouraged to sign up for free digital renewal reminders for health cards, driver’s licences and licence plates.
Kaleed Rasheed, Ontario's Minister of Public and Business Service Delivery, said it is part of the provincial initiative to make things easier for people and businesses.
“Digital renewal reminders are a great way to help people remember to keep their ID, documents, and licence plates up to date and to take advantage of our easy and fast online services to renew them in minutes,” Rasheed said.
While most people are aware they have an obligation to renew their access to provincial services, having the digital reminder makes it more convenient and can also help residents avoid fines or penalties.
"It’s easier, faster, and more convenient to renew now than ever before. Customers can renew online at Ontario.ca/Renew in minutes. Those who need to visit a ServiceOntario centre in person can book an appointment at Ontario.ca/Appointment to make the visit quicker and hassle-free," said the government news release.
Signing up for digital reminders is quick and easy online at Ontario.ca/Reminders or by calling ServiceOntario at 1-800-387-3445 (TTY: 1-800-268-7095).
In March 2022, the province eliminated licence plate renewal fees and the requirement to have a licence plate sticker, saving vehicle owners $120 a year in southern Ontario and $60 a year in Northern Ontario.
While the renewal fee and sticker have been eliminated, it is still a legal requirement for vehicle owners to renew their plates every one or two years at no cost to confirm their automobile insurance is valid and pay any outstanding Highway 407 tolls and other municipal fines.