Alberta to Roll Out Combined ID Cards in July

The Alberta government has announced plans to roll out three-in-one identification cards, eliminating the need for citizens of the province to carry multiple forms of ID to access programs and services. Alberta will begin issuing driver’s licences and ID cards that feature an individual’s identity information, personal health number, and a citizenship marker beginning July 2, Premier Danielle Smith said in a social media post. The change will eliminate the province’s paper health cards and will consolidate all essential information onto an individual’s driver’s licence or an Alberta ID card for those who do not drive. “Albertans can get a new driver’s licence or ID card that includes their healthcare number and proof of citizenship, all on one secure card at no additional cost,” Smith said in the June 3 post. “No more flimsy paper cards. No more carrying multiple pieces of ID. Just a common-sense change that makes life easier.”