Businesses that sell age-restricted products check the IDs of customers in an effort to comply with federal, state and local laws. This can be a cumbersome and challenging process, especially for busy establishments. Checking IDs is time consuming and employees often do not know how or where to look for birthdates and other identifying information. This is especially true for areas with many college students or military personnel. ID scanners are now available to help merchants automate and document the ID checking process.

AutomationPortable ID scanners help businesses verify the identification card for age of the person attempting to enter or make purchases. The electronic scanner will quickly and efficiently check and record the date of birth on the ID’s magnetic strip. An electronic readout is activated by swiping the magnetic strip on a driver’s license or identification card. These devices have age verification software that documents the process. This eliminates the problem of employees making mathematical mistakes or not looking at the date of birth. The device locates the information and does the math for the person using it.

Electronic RecordDocumentation of ID checks is increasing in popularity. Businesses previously had no record of which IDs had been checked. This has changed through modern technology. By purchasing these machines for hand-held or fixed use, establishments can keep an electronic record of which IDs have been processed at the door or cash register. Most scanners are battery-operated and decode magnetic strips by a simple swipe of the stripe. If the ID is false, an alarm will sound. When it passes through as age appropriate, the information is simply recorded for future reference, if needed.

EfficiencyFor popular nightclubs, time is a critical element for getting patrons inside. The sooner people are inside, the sooner they start spending money. One side effect of ID checks has often been employees standing at the door fumbling with a card, creating a ridiculously long line of people waiting to enter. Searching for birthdates on driver’s licenses and government issued ID cards is time consuming when left to inexperienced or rushed workers. According to the National Liquor Law Enforcement Association (NLLEA), 65% of violation tickets issued to establishments for serving or selling to minors is due to human error on the merchant’s part. This includes the mistakes of their employees. Using an automated scanner creates a faster method that is much more accurate. This eliminates long lines and frustration for both customers and merchants.

Automated Scanners Increase ID Check Efficiency