Alberta to launch new combined ID cards in July
Posted June 3, 2026 10:10 am.
Last Updated June 3, 2026 6:26 pm.
Alberta will soon be moving forward with new combined pieces of identification.
Starting July 2, Alberta will begin issuing driver’s licences and ID cards that include a person’s identity information, personal health number, and a citizenship marker.
The province is merging its identification which means residents will no longer need to carry separate documents to access government programs and health services. The updated cards feature a modern design and stronger anti‑fraud protections, according to the government, part of a broader effort to improve security and convenience.
The province will gradually phase out paper Alberta Health Care cards as more people switch to the new format.
To add a health number to a licence or ID, Albertans must bring their existing health card, valid identification, and proof they are legally entitled to be in Canada. Registry agents will verify eligibility for individuals and dependents before the personal health number is added.
The new system also includes a citizenship marker, while eligible non‑citizens can still obtain a provincial ID. Applicants for new or renewed cards must show proof of legal status in Canada.
One of the following documents can be shown to prove permanent residency of Canada:
- Canadian provincial birth certificate
- valid Canadian passport, NEXUS or Permanent Resident card
- Secure Certificate of Indian Status Card
- Canadian Citizenship Card with photo (dated before February 2012)
- a confirmation document, permit or resident visa issued by the Government of Canada that gives you resident status in Canada for more than the next 90 days
- refugee claimants with a Refugee Protection Claimant Document
Premier Danielle Smith announced last year that her government would add proof‑of‑citizenship markers to provincial identification in an effort to streamline services and prevent election fraud.
More information on the new ID cards can be found here.
