| Facial recognition at DMV |
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| Frequently Asked Questions |
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Key requirements of SB 640 that must be implemented by July 2008
Why is DMV changing the way it issues driver licenses, instruction permits and identification cards?
Oregon DMV is going to start using “facial recognition” software, a new tool in the prevention of fraud, required by a new state law. The law is designed to prevent someone from obtaining a driver license or ID card under a false name.
How does facial recognition software work?
Facial recognition software electronically compares photos by measuring key features in faces. It does not require special camera equipment, and it works on the digital customer photos already on file at DMV.
How will facial recognition be used at DMV?
Two types of comparisons will be used – “one to one” and “one to many.” Under the new state law, DMV will be required to conduct both these comparisons before issuing a driver license, instruction permit or ID card.
How does a “one-to-one” comparison work?
When a customer applies for a renewal or replacement card, DMV staff will visually compare the customer’s digital photo on file with the individual at the counter. But as many as eight years can pass between customer photos, and an individual’s appearance can change with time. So facial recognition software will help verify the customer’s identity with a “one to one” comparison at the counter after the customer has qualified for a renewal or replacement card.
How is a “one to many” comparison performed?
After DMV business hours, the facial recognition software will compare the photos of each day’s applicants with each other and with all other of customers on file at DMV. The software will alert DMV staff of possible matches between customers under different names. DMV staff then will examine the possible matches to determine whether the matches are simply very similar looking individuals or possibly the same individual under different names.
When will DMV start doing facial recognition?
First, DMV must change from over-the-counter card issuance to centralized issuance, so that the one-to-many facial recognition check can run before DMV issues a permanent card. DMV will change to centralized issuance office by office during Summer 2007. The 2005 legislation mandating facial recognition gives DMV until July 2008 in implement the system, and DMV will have it in place by the deadline. Read the centralized issuance FAQ.
What happens if DMV finds a customer’s face under different names?
DMV will not issue a permanent card to the customer and will provide the information for police to investigate as a potential case of fraud.
What happens if DMV cannot tell whether two photos are the same or different individuals?
DMV will ask the customer or customers to bring additional proof of identity before issuing a permanent card.
Do customers need to renew their cards early once facial recognition starts?
No. Customers need only wait until their regular renewal date.
Does DMV remind customers when their cards are about to expire?
Yes. DMV sends renewal notices typically two months before a customer’s expiration date.
Do customers need to do anything different at the DMV office?
No. The only difference for customers is that they will get an interim card rather than a permanent card during their visit. There is no change to Oregon requirements to obtain driving privileges or an ID card. New customers still need to prove identity, age, residence in Oregon and pass tests for driving privileges. Renewal customers need to bring at least their current card, and their photo on file at DMV counts as a second piece of identification at DMV.
Will a license or ID card cost more with facial recognition?
The law authorizes DMV to charge up to $3 more per card starting July 1, 2008.
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| Questions? |
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E-mail David House at for questions about facial recognition and centralized issuance.
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