SB 163 - This act authorizes the Department of Revenue to use biometric identification methods in order to properly identify driver license applicants. Biometric identification consists of facial recognition, fingerprints, hand geometry, iris recognition, retinal scans, and other methods of recognizing a person based upon physiological characteristics. Before issuing any driver license, nondriver license, or instruction permit, the applicant must provide biometric information as requested by the Director of the Department of Revenue. The Director is authorized to promulgate rules regarding the capture of biometric identification codes on applications for driver's licenses, nondriver's licenses, and instruction permits.

This act modifies the instruction permit application process. The act specifies what an instruction permit application must contain (name, Social Security Number, mailing address, etc.). An instruction permit application must also contain an unique biometric identification code. Additionally, the application must contain information which will enable the director to determine whether the applicant is fit to drive a motor vehicle or whether the applicant has any prior convictions relating to driving a motor vehicle (DWIs, driving without a license, etc.).

This act also reorganizes a provision of law relating to nondriver's licenses.
STEPHEN WITTE