Government of Alberta Press Release
Alberta is the first province to add a Canadian citizenship marker to driver’s licences and ID cards, giving residents a single, secure card to access programs and services.
This fall, legislation will be introduced to implement the addition of Canadian citizenship status to Albertans’ drivers licences or ID cards.
This change is part of a broader initiative to give Albertans a single, secure document that confirms both identity and Canadian citizenship.
By combining identity and citizenship on one document, Albertans will no longer need to carry multiple pieces of ID to access services.
Adding a Canadian citizenship marker to Alberta’s drivers licenses will also strengthen Alberta’s election system by helping ensure that only eligible citizens cast ballots, protecting the integrity of our democratic process.
It also positions Alberta to respond quickly to future legislative changes and aligns with international standards.
“This is about more than convenience, it’s about trust. With a single, secure card proving both identity and citizenship, Albertans will face fewer hurdles when applying for government services. This will also strengthen the integrity of elections and other systems that rely on proof of citizenship.” Danielle Smith, Premier
“This is about making life easier for Albertans. By including citizenship information on these cards, we’re streamlining access to services and reducing the need to carry multiple documents.” Dale Nally, Minister of Service Alberta and Red Tape Reduction
“As partners in delivering government services, Alberta’s registry agents are proud to support changes that modernize our systems and make life easier for Albertans. Your local registry agent supports simple, practical steps that improve the convenience and efficiency of government-issued identification. Registry agents are committed to keeping Alberta at the forefront of service innovation.” Rikki McBride, CEO, Alberta Association of Registry Agents
This modernization builds on recently announced changes to incorporate Alberta health care numbers onto drivers licenses in late 2026.
Currently, there are more than half a million more health care numbers registered than there are people living in Alberta, based on second quarter 2025 population estimates.
Through this process, Alberta’s government will be able to identify which health care cards continue to be actively in use and better understand why there is such a large discrepancy.
Key facts:
The citizenship marker will be added to all new and renewed drivers licences and ID cards starting in fall 2026, ensuring a consistent and reliable way to verify citizenship across Alberta.
There will be no additional cost to Albertans to add citizenship, beyond the existing cost of obtaining a drivers license.
Beginning in 2026, individuals will be required to bring proof of citizenship or immigration status to obtain or renew a drivers license.
Only Canadian citizenship will be displayed on drivers licenses or ID cards.
Author: PressRelease
