U.S. DOT task force to consider security ID cards for transport workers

WASHINGTON, D.C. (Feb. 7, 2002) — Concerned about a proliferation of proprietary security efforts, the U.S. Dept. of Transportation has established a task force to develop recommendations for a standard identification card for transport workers.

The DOT is worried that some states, port authorities, shippers, and carriers will implement their own programs to positively identify transport workers, leading to a need for multiple IDs and background checks for drivers, according to a report from the National Private Truck Council, which represents private fleets in the United States.

The group will recommend “smart card” technology and the use of a biometric identifier, the report said. The card would likely also contain driver licensing information.

“It is unclear when the government might be able to implement this type of system,” notes the NPTC, “and this will depend in large part on how much funding is forthcoming from Congress. It is likely several years away because of the need to develop uniform systems standards, coordinate across multiple institutions, and upgrade equipment and software.”