ServiceOntario expanding online options to ‘save people time, money’

Ontario is expanding digital options at ServiceOntario locations, including video health card renewal appointments and applying for marriage licences online, as the government hopes to speed up current wait times.

Premier Doug Ford says the moves will make a difference as the province aims to nearly double the number of service centres offering appointments to 120 by the end of 2023.

“We’re making it easier for people and businesses to connect with ServiceOntario, putting customers first and saving people time and money,” Premier Ford said.

“Across our government, we’re making it less complicated and more convenient for people to interact with the government. We’ll never stop working to improve the services we offer people.”

Health cards can be easily renewed, province says

The province says an enhanced booking system is now running at 64 of the busiest ServiceOntario locations, and it lets people book a single appointment for multiple services or multiple family members. Customers can go online to renew their licence plate, driver’s licence, health card, Ontario Photo Card, and Accessible Parking Permit at Ontario.ca/Renew.

Also, people who cannot visit a ServiceOntario centre in person can book virtual appointments to have their health cards renewed in a live video call.

The government also says in the next few months, couples will be able to apply for a marriage licence online through a secure portal in participating municipalities, and digital dealership registration will expand to include trade-in vehicles and used cars.

Public and Business Service Delivery Minister Kaleed Rasheed says new online services are being added regularly because every new customer online is one less person waiting in line.

“Our government continues to modernize how we deliver services, using data and technology to design programs that put customers first,” Rasheed said.

“Ontarians can access services in person, by phone, or online — taking advantage of more than 55 online services available anywhere, anytime, any day.”

With files from The Canadian Press.