Trinidad and Tobago’s Government is considering legislation that would require citizens aged 16 and over, as well as foreign nationals, to carry valid identification while in public spaces, according to a report by the Trinidad Express newspaper.
Minister of Homeland Security Roger Alexander confirmed the plan in a telephone interview with the Express, following the circulation of a leaked Cabinet Minute dated April 2, 2026, which proposed amendments to legislation requiring citizens aged 16 and over to possess valid identification in public spaces.
According to the article, Alexander confirmed that the Cabinet note was authentic and said the proposal had been referred to the Finance and General Purposes Committee for consideration.
The minister said details, including whether failing to produce identification to law enforcement upon request would constitute an offence, were still being worked out.
However, he told the Express that individuals would be given a ‘grace’ period to present identification and expressed the view that failure to do so should attract a fine or another penalty.
Alexander said the proposed measure was intended to assist law enforcement in identifying individuals and addressing cases where people use other persons’ identities.
‘Coming from law enforcement, there are a lot of persons in and around our country who are using other persons’ names. When you have a picture ID attached to your name, we see who you are,’ he said.
According to the Express report, Alexander said the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service faces challenges when attempting to serve warrants because individuals sometimes provide different names when officers arrive.
He said the initiative would involve collaboration between the Elections and Boundaries Commission (EBC) and government ministries to ensure people can obtain national identification cards.
The minister also said arrangements would be made for students aged 16 and over to register for and receive national identification cards before leaving school.
Alexander said photo identification was already required for activities such as employment and opening bank accounts, and described the proposed measure as consistent with international practices.
Alexander said he expected criticism from the opposition People’s National Movement (PNM), accusing the party of opposing government initiatives aimed at addressing crime.
He said the Government’s plans and policies had been in development for some time, and efforts were underway to implement them.