Alberta rolls out redesigned driver's licences and ID cards with health number
Starting Thursday, Albertans renewing or applying for cards must bring proof of legal status in Canada for the new combined provincial ID.
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Alberta has officially started issuing redesigned combined driver's licences and identification cards.
The change went into effect Thursday for anyone renewing or applying for a card. The new cards include space for a personal health number, meaning Albertans must bring their existing health card, valid identification, and proof they are legally entitled to be in Canada to get the new cards. Registry agents will verify eligibility for individuals and dependents before the health number is added.
The cards also feature a citizenship marker, though eligible non-citizens can still obtain a provincial ID. Applicants for new or renewed cards must show proof of legal status in Canada. Accepted documents include a Canadian provincial birth certificate, valid Canadian passport, NEXUS or Permanent Resident card, Secure Certificate of Indian Status Card, Canadian Citizenship Card with photo issued before February 2012, or a confirmation document, permit or resident visa showing resident status in Canada for more than the next 90 days.
Alberta's privacy commissioner is warning that the redesigned cards display more sensitive information and could create new privacy risks. Commissioner Diane McLeod said her office has developed three guidance documents to help mitigate those risks — one for the public and two for private-sector organizations and public bodies outlining rules in Alberta's privacy laws regarding collection of the additional information now included on the cards.
The province plans to gradually phase out paper Alberta Health cards as more people transition to the new cards.
