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ID hologram bird under UV light

What security features are on all state IDs?

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State IDs come in all different varieties since the design on the front of the ID is open to artistic expression by each state, so how do you know if it is real or fake? While the front of the ID is generally customized to include state specific design features like the state bird or state flower, it is important to have standardized, built in security features to help businesses differentiate between real and fake IDs. Most states try to follow the guidelines from either the ICAO or AAMVA for where specific security features should be placed on the respective state ID. Here are some of the most common security features on state IDs.

Holograms

Holograms are one of the most common security features seen on all state IDs. The designs are often unique to the state, but can easily help business owners due to their unique three-dimensional effects that can easily be seen without using any special technology. This is because the light is refracted off the nano-structures, creating an easy to see design.

While these holographic security features can be seen with a naked eye, for authentication purposes, businesses would benefit from employing the use of an M500, or similar product. The M500 runs a series of light checks, including UV, IR, and white light checks. These light checks are run against VeriScan’s known database of security features, and are compared at microscopic level to ensure the features match, thus authenticating the ID.

Microprinting

Microprinting is another common security feature on all state IDs. This security feature is created by using a microscopic pattern on the ID that is not easily reproduced by fake ID manufacturers. Differing from holograms, microprint usually requires some type of magnifier to be able to see, hence the name microprint.

UV ink

Ultra-violet (UV) ink is a security feature that is created by covertly hiding images and/or text on the state ID by using a specialized form of printing. These images often cannot be seen unless they’re viewed under a UV light. This security feature is similar to a hologram, but where the hologram will refract light to a naked eye, the UV ink will only react once it is placed under the UV light, adding an additional level of security that is difficult for fake ID creators to replicate properly. 

Such as with the holograms, for best results, it is recommended to pair an M500, or other authentication capable scanner with the VeriScan software so the security features can be compared by an AI powered engine against the known library of state security features. 

2D Barcode security

2D barcode security is the security feature on the back of an ID that has important security information embedded into the barcode. As an additional level of security most states add intentional quirks into their barcodes in an effort to thwart fake ID attempts. For example, all Nebraska IDs, the ID number always starts with an A or a Q.

The VeriScan software has a built-in algorithm that has been trained over the last 15+ years to run more than 75 security checks against 2D barcodes to help ensure the most accurate results when scanning a 2D barcode.

Taking extra precautions to protect your business can mean the difference between being compliant, and in some states being protected by affirmative defense should your business get caught accidentally selling an age restricted product to a minor. To learn more about how our software works to compare known security features to those embedded in IDs, contact a member of our team.

ohio enhanced ids

Ohio Enhanced IDs Coming Soon

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Nearly 10 years ago, the state of Ohio rejected the implementation of enhanced IDs for “civil-liberties concerns.” Since then, technology has advanced, and the state has reconsidered the utilization of enhanced IDs.

Recently passed House Bill 23 authorizes implementation of enhanced IDs in Ohio. The bill specifies what information applicants must provide to receive an enhanced ID:

  • Proof of identity and citizenship
  • Submit a fingerprint or other “biometric identifier”
  • Acknowledge the use of a radio frequency identification chip (RFID) and biometric match

According to the Department of Homeland Security, enhanced licenses would contain an RFID chip that “will signal a secure system to pull up your biographic and biometric data for the CBP officer as you approach the border inspection booth.” These IDs are incredibly helpful in instances of crossing the border. 

The cost of Ohio enhanced IDs will be $25 more than the price of regular licenses. According to an Ohio Department of Public Safety official, the enactment of Ohio enhanced IDs in the state is “dependent on federal government.” Therefore, there is no official timeline regarding the implementation as of yet. No attempt has been made to sell these IDs to the public, as well as no attempt at publicizing the enhanced identification. 

Truckers in Ohio are excited about these IDs, as they should “ease the burden of crossing the border,” says Thomas Balzer, president of the Ohio Trucking Association. Many truckers carry freight from Ohio to Canada and must provide identification to cross the border. With the newly passed enhanced ID, this process will be made easier and more efficient. 

Other states currently offering enhanced IDs include New York, Washington, Vermont, Minnesota, and Michigan. All of these states share a border with Canada. The process of individuals crossing the border is much improved with the usage of these enhanced IDs. 

expired ids

Do Expired IDs Scan?

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When it comes to scanning expired IDs using ID scanners, the process and outcomes can vary depending on the scanner’s design and the specific requirements set by the business utilizing the scanner. Keep reading to learn more about whether expired IDs will scan or not. 

Scanner Capabilities

ID scanners are primarily designed to capture and extract information from identification documents. They use optical sensors, cameras, and OCR technology to read and interpret data encoded on the ID. This includes details like name, date of birth, address, and expiration date. In most cases, the scanner will successfully read the expiration date on an expired ID and display it as part of the extracted information.

Scanning Purposes

The acceptance of expired IDs depends on the purpose for which the ID is being scanned. Some establishments, such as bars, clubs, or airports, may have strict policies that only accept valid, unexpired IDs for age verification or security reasons to ensure they remain compliant with local and federal laws. In such cases, the scanner may flag the expired ID as invalid or display a notification indicating that the ID has expired.

Compliance and Regulations

Certain industries, like banking, government, or healthcare, have specific regulatory requirements regarding ID verification. They may have policies in place that strictly mandate the use of valid, unexpired IDs for identification purposes. In these cases, ID scanners may be programmed to reject expired IDs and display an alert to ensure compliance with regulations.

Customizable Settings

ID scanners often provide a degree of customization to suit the needs of different organizations or applications. Depending on the settings configured by the system administrator or operator, the scanner’s response to an expired ID can be adjusted. It may be set to accept or reject expired IDs based on the specific requirements of the organization.

Operator Discretion

Ultimately, the acceptance or rejection of an expired ID is at the discretion of the business using the ID scanner. While the scanner can provide information about the expiration status of an ID, the final decision lies with the person or system using the scanner. In some cases, an operator may override the scanner’s warning and choose to accept the expired ID based on their own judgment or specific circumstances.

It’s crucial to note that the acceptance of expired IDs is subjective and can vary depending on the policies, regulations, and discretion of the business using the ID scanner. Therefore, it is advisable to consult the specific guidelines and requirements of the business in question to determine whether they accept expired IDs for the intended purpose. So yes, technically expired IDs will scan, but more often than not, businesses will still not accept them, making it important to maintain a valid, non-expired form of identification.

Idaho’s New ID Format is Here

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For the first time since 2016, the Idaho Division of Motor Vehicles has released a new ID format. The new ID format went into effect on April 12, 2023. In an effort to prevent ID fraud and keep up with the constant evolution of technology, Idaho’s new ID format has been equipped with several new security features. 

Idaho’s New Security Features

  • Idaho’s state bird – the mountain bluebird
  • The Sawtooth Mountains
  • The Idaho Statehouse

While Idaho’s new ID format has gone into effect, it will not invalidate any existing IDs that are currently in rotation. The old design will remain valid until the expiration date listed on the ID. However, for all new IDs issued, either renewals or replacements, the new ID format will be featured. It is also worth noting that the new design will also be featured on other state issued cards such as identification cards, instruction permits, and concealed weapon cards. 

This new design is not intended to replace the Star Card. The Star will be added to the new ID format just as it was added to the previous version. Starting May 7, 2025, you will need to have a license or other form of ID with the Star on it(or another acceptable form of identification such as a passport) in order to fly commercially.

To learn more about Idaho’s ID Laws, visit our ID Laws portal.

Missouri mDL Goes Live

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Missouri has officially released their mobile driver’s license (mDL), and as an added bonus, users will be able to remotely renew their driver’s licenses. Unlike the recent Apple Wallet ID integrations whose application is only accepted at select airports, the mDL will be accepted as identification with government agencies, businesses and other organizations. 

What Makes the Missouri mDL Stand Out?

Convenience

The new mDL has a seamless design that allows you to not only prove your identity, but also pay for a purchase using the same app. For the time being, that feature is only accepted at participating locations, but more locations will be coming soon. The mDL generates a barcode that can be easily scanned by those needing to verify age, making the process both quick and secure. 

Security

The aforementioned barcode is one of the biggest security features of the app. Instead of carrying around a wallet with your physical ID in it, Missourians are now able to leave the excess baggage at home. Secured via FaceID, fingerprint, or passcode, the app generates all the same information from your physical ID, just in a digital form. The biggest difference though is that in the Missouri mDL, you can choose which information is shown for age verification. So, gone are the days of having to hand over sensitive information like home address, height, weight, etc.. 

How To Download the Missouri mDL

Step 1: Download the app from the Apple App Store, or the Google Play store.

Step 2: The app will ask you to enter your phone number to confirm your device. A link will be sent to your device, which you need to click to confirm your device.

Step 3: The app will have you scan the front and back of your ID.

Step 4: Users will then be asked to take a selfie and perform a liveness detection test. 

Step 5: Users will select and confirm a personal identification number. Once this final authentication factor is confirmed, the Missouri mDL is ready to be used. 

As the push toward mobile IDs becomes more and more popular, these mDLs will become more widely accepted at businesses as well as in more airports. To learn more about how you can use the mDL, check out the Dept. of Revenue’s page. For more information on ID scanning laws in Missouri as well as the United States, visit our ID Laws Portal.

Other Missouri mDL resources

Missouri Mobile ID (Missouri Department of Revenue)

Missouri Launches Mobile ID with Remote Driver’s License Renewal Feature (Find Biometrics: Global Identity Management)

Missouri Mobile ID FAQs (Missouri Department of Revenue)

Virginia Releases New ID Format

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For the first time since 2009, Virginia has released a new ID format. The new ID format is designed to have excess security features in an effort to prevent counterfeiting and ID fraud. 

New Design Features

The new Virginia ID was designed not only to embed additional layers of security, but also to show off Virginia’s unique artistic expression. Some of the new design features include:

  • An interior view of the state capitol’s rotunda dome
  • Eastern Tiger Swallowtail butterflies – Virginia’s official insect and a favorite of locals
  • The American Dogwood – the Virginia state flower

Features Remaining from the Previous ID Format

While new features are always beneficial, Virginians need not worry too much about the change. Several existing features that locals have come to know have been carried into the new ID format as well, including:

  • Banner colors for easy recognition
    • Blue – for driver’s licenses
    • Green – for ID cards
  • Driver’s licenses and ID cards issued to anyone under 21 will remain vertical for easy distinction
  • REAL IDs will still have a black circle/star cutout

All IDs currently in rotation will remain valid until the expiration date listed on the ID. Upon such date, individuals who apply for a new card, or renew/replace their existing one will be issued a card with the new ID format.

For more on Virginia IDs and ID scanning laws, be sure to check out our ID Laws portal.

Google Wallet for Android now supports digital IDs

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Google Wallet on Android is finally getting ready for your digital driver’s license and other US state IDs. Google says the feature is rolling out this month, and it will slowly start bringing states online this year. Of course, your state has to be one of the few that actually supports digital IDs. Google says Maryland residents can use the feature right now and that “in the coming months, residents of Arizona, Colorado and Georgia will join them.”

The road to digital driver’s license support has been a long one, with the “Identity Credential API” landing in Android 11 in 2020. Since then, it has technically been possible for states to make their own ID app. Now Google Wallet, Google’s re-re-reboot of its payment app, is providing a first-party way to store an ID on your phone. Some parts of the Identity Credential API landed in Google Play Services (Google’s version-agnostic brick of APIs), so Wallet supports digital IDs going back to Android 8.0, which covers about 90 percent of Android devices.

Maryland has supported Digital IDs on iOS for a while, which gives us an idea of how this will work. An NFC transfer is enough to beam your credentials to someone, where you can just tap against a special NFC ID terminal and confirm the transfer with your fingerprint. Wallet has an NFC option, along with a “Show code” option that will show the traditional driver’s license barcode.

IDs are saved locally on your device, but Google lets you remove them remotely from myaccount.google.com, so if you lose your phone, you can still secure your ID. In the full-fat, Android 11 version of the Identity Credential API, Google supposedly has a “Direct Access” mode that can transfer your ID over NFC even if you don’t have enough power to boot up the phone. Google says that will require special hardware support, though.

Reality has not necessarily caught up to Google’s and Apple’s technical implementations. Just like Apple’s announcement in 2021, Google only mentions the Wallet IDs working at airport TSA check-ins, and the support document notes that “you must still carry your physical ID as needed.” For it to actually replace a driver’s license, police would have to be trained and equipped to accept a digital ID during a traffic stop. Ideally, they would have a portable ID scanner/NFC reader because the alternative of handing over your entire phone to the cops does not sound very appealing. Laws and technology rollouts have to happen individually across all 50 states, so it’s hard to track how far along any of this is. It does not sound like much progress has been made, though. IDScan.net, a company that makes digital ID solutions, currently tracks 12 states as having some kind of active digital ID program and another 11 in a “pilot” program.

Read the original post here.

New York Prepares to Roll Out mDL by the end of 2023

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Can you scan IDs in Alabama?

Alabama law does not regulate a business’s practice of scanning IDs or retaining information obtained from a scan.

Summary of Alabama ID Scanning Laws

In the absence of any statute governing issues associated with a business’s practice of scanning IDs, a business is likely allowed to scan IDs and to retain information obtained from a scan, subject to applicable privacy laws.

There are some instances in which merchants are required to record information related to identity, such as the purchase of scrap metal or precious metals. ID scanning can improve the ease and accuracy of record keeping in these scenarios.

Alabama Act #2019-233 (HB41). Regarding Tobacco Sales

The bill went into effect on August 1, 2019. The act introduces major changes for retailers who advertise and/or sell alternative nicotine products, including vape devices and liquids, in the state of Alabama. These changes are geared toward limiting marketing that targets minors, as well as limiting minors’ access to alternative nicotine products.

Major changes include:

  • The sale of alternative nicotine products to anyone under the age of 19 is prohibited.
  • The Alcohol Beverage Control Board is responsible for the regulation of e-cigarettes and vape products.
  • Advertising cannot categorize alternative nicotine products as healthy options to replace smoking.
  • Billboards advertising vaping liquid are limited to the advertisement of three flavors: tobacco, mint, or menthol.
  • Vape shops are required to have a tobacco permit.
  • Opening vape shops within 1,000 feet of a school, church, youth center, daycare center, or public library, playground or park is prohibited.

Alabama Act 2009-578 (HB391). Regarding ID checks before sale of tobacco products

This bill prohibits distribution of tobacco products to minors, requires that proof of age be checked upon purchase of tobacco products and removes all tobacco products in retail setting from public access.

Scrap Metals. AL Code § 13A-8-31. Regarding Secondary Metal Recycling

Record of purchases.

(a) A secondary metals recycler shall maintain a legible record of all purchase transactions of ferrous or nonferrous metals to which the secondary metals recycler is a party. The record shall include all of the following information:

(1) The name and address of the secondary metals recycler.

(2) The name or identification of the employee responsible for making the purchase on behalf of the secondary metals recycler.

(3) The date and time of the transaction.

(4) The weight, quantity, or volume and a description of the type of metal property purchased in a purchase transaction. For purposes of this subdivision, the term “type of metal property” shall include a general physical description, such as wire, tubing, extrusions, or casting.

(5) The amount of consideration given in a purchase transaction for the metal property.

(6) A signed statement from the person receiving consideration in the purchase transaction stating that he or she is the rightful owner of the metal property or is authorized to sell the metal property being sold.

(7) The name and address of the person delivering the metal property to the secondary metals recycler.

(8) A photocopy or scanned copy of the personal identification card of the person delivering the metal property to the secondary metals recycler, including the distinctive number from, and type of, the personal identification card of the person delivering the metal property to the secondary metals recycler.

(9) The vehicle license tag number and state of issue, or the vehicle identification number if no vehicle license tag is available, and the type of vehicle used to deliver the metal property to the secondary metals recycler. For purposes of this subdivision, the term “type of vehicle” shall mean an automobile, pickup truck, van, or truck.

(10) A digital photograph or video recording of the person delivering or receiving consideration for the metal property delivered to the secondary metals recycler in which the person’s facial features are clearly visible and a photograph or video recording of the metal property as delivered or sold in which the type of metal property is identifiable. The time and date shall be digitally recorded on the photograph or video recording.

(b) A secondary metals recycler shall maintain or cause to be maintained the information required by subsection (a) for not less than one year from the date of the purchase transaction.

(c) Any person who intentionally violates the requirements of subsections (a) or (b) shall be guilty of a Class B misdemeanor for a first offense, a Class A misdemeanor for a second offense, and a Class C felony for a third or subsequent offense within a 10-year period.

(d) It shall be unlawful for any person to give false information and receive money or other consideration from a secondary metals recycler in return for metal property. Any person in violation of this subsection shall be guilty of a Class C felony.

3M QS1000 Pic 1

Gemalto by Thales has sunset the QS1000 ID & passport scanner

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In an effort to continuously provide our customers the most up-to-date ID scanning news and industry trends, we are providing a brief overview of the sunset of the Gemalto by Thales QS1000 ID & Passport Scanner.

Initially offered by 3M, then Gemalto when 3Ms identity management business was acquired by Gemalto in December 2016 bringing around $850 million in value to the brand. Gemalto was subsequently purchased by Thales in early 2019. Thales is an industry leader in many technologies, with seven global divisions. At the time the QS1000 was Gemalto’s device of choice for businesses looking to scan both passports and IDs, but not requiring deeper ID authentication capabilities. It was the device of choice for many banks, hotels, and rental businesses who included ID scanning as part of their check-in processes.

January 1, 2014

QS1000 Released

Gemalto released 1 the QS1000 ID & passport scanner

January 1, 2014
April 1, 2019

French identity tech company Thales purchases Gemalto

At this time the QS1000 line was folded under the Thales brand

April 1, 2019
July 1, 2020

Thales announces the QS2000 ID & passport scanner

The QS2000 is announced as the product that will supercede the QS1000

July 1, 2020
November 1, 2020

QS2000 Released

First orders are filled for the QS2000 ID & passport scanner

November 1, 2020
December 23, 2022

Thales ends support for the QS1000 scanner

Customers will need to upgrade their scanning devices

December 23, 2022

Thales elected to end production of the QS1000 upon acquisition of Gemalto. Thales was developing a newer more advanced offering, the Thales QS2000 ID & passport scanner, a highly reliable full page document reader with a new smaller more contemporary designed outer housing.

The QS2000 keeps the QS1000 spirit alive with features to include: 400 DPI camera, Visible and IR image capture, Reads 1D and 2D barcodes, OCR and MRZ support. It is lightweight and durable with no moving parts, and is USB powered.

Designed for capturing driver license data and other travel and identity documents, the Thales QS2000 has a large hooded glass which works exceptionally well in brightly lit or dark environments, such as outdoors (IP54 rating) and bars and restaurants. Documents do not need to be centered on the glass and may be placed at any angle. The QS2000 will auto correct the image alignment and show perfectly straight images on screen. It also provides accurate data capture and auto form fill (software required). Excellent for hospitality, retail, visitor management and many more industries.

Customers who are using the QS1000 scanner are advised to upgrade to the QS2000 ID scanner, as manufacturing support for the QS1000 ended in December 2022, meaning all warranties are void and the manufacturer will no longer provide parts support. Luckily, the QS2000 scanner is fully compatible and can be easily swapped in to replace the sunset QS1000.

How to Get Iowa’s Mobile Driver’s License

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Iowa announced that it planned to begin offering a mobile driver’s license (mDL) to state residents through the Apple Wallet. In addition, Iowa is developing a state based app, Iowa Mobile ID. This app will be a complement to the physical ID and is not intended to replace it.

Exciting New Features

Some of the features of the mobile ID include payment, security, and privacy settings. The app will allow you to pay for purchases using the app, while proving your identity at the same time. It is important to note that this feature will only be available at participating locations for the time being. 

Privacy and Security are two of the most important features coming with the mobile app. Your physical ID becomes more secure due to you not having to carry it around in a wallet. Your digital identity becomes more secure because the mobile driver’s license is locked down via security features, meaning only your biometric data can be used to access your ID. The privacy aspect comes into play because the Iowa Mobile ID will let you choose what information you want to share with people. You will be able to verify your age without having to divulge any personal information such as height, address, birth date, etc.

How To Get It

  1. Download the app from either the Apple or Android app stores. To do this, search “Iowa Mobile ID” and download the app.
  2. Scan your physical ID. Activation of the app cannot be completed until your identity is verified. 
  3. Take a selfie. This allows the app to verify your identity by comparing the selfie to the scanned ID. This is done by using facial recognition technology.
  4. Set your security features. This can be done by setting a PIN for the app or using facial biometrics to access the app. 
  5. Start using it!

Iowa’s Department of Transportation recently soft-launched the mobile ID app for residents. The app is not yet available for public download; official app launch should come by the end of next month. In regards to the Apple Wallet integration, although it has been announced that Iowa will join the likes of other states integrating into the platform, the integration has not yet taken place. We will continue to watch for updates on this new ID format, so stay tuned for more information. 

To learn more about mobile driver’s licenses, be sure to contact our team.

Other Iowa mDL resources

Iowa Mobile ID (Iowa Department of Transportation)

Iowa’s Mobile ID App Delayed to Make It Safer (KCCI)

Iowa DOT Delays Launch of Digital ID for Security Improvements (Government Technology)

Iowa’s New Mobile ID App Set to Launch Soon

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