Special orders of some goods available at AAFES
The Implementation of an updated point-of-sale system using Common Access Cards will prompt cashiers to scan customers’ CACs for purchase of age-restricted items, including music and videogames.
Exchange ID check goes hi-tech



by Judd Anstey
Army & Air Force Exchange Service Public Affairs

10/5/2010 - DALLAS, Texas (AFNS) -- Implementation of an updated point-of-sale system that leverages the technological advances available through "smart" Common Access Cards is streamlining the identification process for age-restricted items at Army and Air Force Exchanges.

AAFES new point-of-sale system, which rolled out to continental U.S. locations on Sept. 22, prompts associates to check identification when a restricted item is scanned.

Scanning the bar code on the front of the shopper's ID card allows the exchange's system to determine the customer's age and quickly complete the transaction. The system does not print the customer's birth date on a receipt or store the information in any way.

"Prior to implementation of the 'smart' ID cards, exchange associates had to visually inspect the identification in order to complete the sale," said AAFES Chief of Staff Col. Virgil Williams. "Now, our scanners at the register can work directly with the card to verify eligibility."

U.S. Armed Forces Identification cards act as the primary ID for active duty uniformed services members and shall be used to identify the member's eligibility for benefits and privileges, according to DOD instruction on scanning IDs to verify age.

"This is a convenience issue," Colonel Williams said. "It's simply a matter of what is easiest for the shopper and, because the process is mechanical, another measure to help ensure minors are not in possession of age-restricted items."

Colonel Williams said the new system will help with consumer safety and save shoppers time.

"I believe this effort is consistent with the DoD's intent behind smart IDs and am excited about the efficiencies combining it with the Exchanges' point-of-sale system presents," he said. "Furthermore, I'm confident this process is protecting the benefits of authorized shoppers by verifying ages on items, such as knives and mature-rated music, video and games, as well as tobacco and alcohol."