Content Navigation

When it comes to managing visitor registration and maintaining accurate records, the Drivers License form plays a pivotal role. This form is not merely a document; it’s a vital tool that utilizes advanced technology, specifically Optical Character Recognition (OCR), to efficiently scan and process driver licenses and IDs. The OCR technology aims to achieve the highest possible recognition rate, with current systems boasting an impressive accuracy rate of 95-99% when set up correctly. However, it’s important to note that no OCR technology is infallible. Newer driver license designs often incorporate holograms, which can obstruct critical text and challenge the scanning process. To address these issues, innovative solutions like the Snapshell IDR scanner have been developed, enhancing light management to improve data capture. Regular updates to the software development kit (SDK) ensure compatibility with the latest license designs, but users must remain vigilant. If a license fails to scan properly, troubleshooting steps are crucial, including checking settings, recalibrating scanners, and, if necessary, collecting secure scans for technical support. Understanding the intricacies of the Drivers License form and its associated technologies is essential for anyone involved in visitor management or security operations.

Drivers License Example

LobbyWorks® 4.0 – Scanning Business Cards, Driver Licenses and IDs

Updated: 26 May 2011

Scanning business cards and driver licenses is a great way to capture a complete ID image for record keeping and to streamline data entry during visitor registration. Card scanning utilizes a technology called Optical Character Recognition (OCR) and a pattern recognition algorithm to identify unique driver license templates for processing.

Important notes:

1)The goal of OCR technology is to achieve the highest recognition rate possible; however, no currently available OCR technology is 100% accurate. LobbyWorks® uses an SDK, and supported card scanners measure a per-character accuracy rate of 95-99% when the technology is properly set up.

2)Many new driver license designs have been updated to include one or more holograms as a method to prevent/detect fake IDs. In the new designs, the holograms often obstruct the text that the OCR technology is attempting to decipher. Card Scanning Solutions has created a new scanner, the Snapshell IDR (Honeywell part # LWVMSSNAP), with improved light management to improve capture of data from licenses where text is hidden behind holograms. The 800 scanner does not have same capability, so we encourage users who experience OCR problems with holograms on newer IDs/licenses to consider upgrading to a Snapshell IDR model.

3)Card Scanning Solutions releases SDK updates on a regular basis due to the continuous introduction of new and updated driver license designs. If you encounter an unsupported license template, the best recommendation is to update to the latest CSS SDK to attempt to resolve the problem. LobbyWorks has been updated in v4.0.6.1 to install the full CSS SDK to enable easier SDK updates in the field. Important: If the newest SDK does not resolve the problem, you will need to collect a secure scan to provide to Honeywell technical support for forwarding to CSS.

What should I do if a driver license is not scanning properly?

Problem

Question

Resolution1

A specific model or

Do the driver license fields seem

No –

models of license do not

to be captured into the correct

1) Check both Autodetect and the state-specific

scan properly

LobbyWorks field?

settings in Front Desk.

 

 

2) Check the latest CSS SDK to see if it has a fix.

 

 

If not, collect a secure scan2 to provide to

 

 

Honeywell technical support for forwarding to

 

 

CSS.

 

Do the licenses have holograms

Yes – You have encountered a limitation of the 800

 

and are you using an 800 model

scanner relative to new driver licenses. We

 

scanner?

recommend you upgrade to the Snapshell IDR

 

 

model.

 

A specific license model was

Yes – Although CSS has added numerous new

 

previously compatible with

driver license templates, they still continue to

 

Autodetect, but now requires

support the older templates as well. We

 

selection of a state?

recommend collection of a secure scan2 be

 

 

provided for review.

 

The OCR seems to be entering a

Yes –

 

lot of typos into LobbyWorks?

1) The OCR technology is not 100% accurate.

 

 

The achievable per-character accuracy rate is

 

 

between 95-99%.

1All resolutions shown are compatible with LobbyWorks 4.0 build 4.0.6.1 or later.

2The best method of acquiring the image is by creating a “cssnlogdir” folder on the C drive. Once the cssnlogdir folder is created it will automatically capture encrypted copies of everything you scan. All you need to do is scan the problematic card, compress/zip the cssnlogdir folder and send it to Honeywell Technical Support. After the email is sent, delete the folder.

1

 

 

2) To help achieve the highest accuracy, it is

 

 

important that the scanned image shows the

 

 

entire card and that the image is good. If using

 

 

an 800 scanner, recalibrate. If recalibration

 

 

does not help, we recommend collection of a

 

 

secure scan be provided for review.

No card scans properly

Are you using an 800 scanner?

Yes –

 

 

 

1) Please confirm that the 800 model is

 

 

compatible and recalibrate the scanner. Note:

 

 

there are models of the 800 scanner that do

 

 

image capture only without OCR support.

 

 

2) Please confirm card is being inserted into

 

 

scanner with proper orientation (image face

 

 

down).

 

Front Desk starts but the

Yes – This may be caused by an installation error

 

Snapshell IDR does not power

of the driver or SDK. Uninstall both the driver/SDK

 

up?

using Add/Remove Programs and then reinstall

 

 

driver followed by SDK.

 

Front Desk starts but does not

Yes –

 

 

detect the scanner?

1) Confirm that another open application is not

 

 

using the scanner. A scanner can only connect

 

 

to one software application at a time. If this is

 

 

the problem, close the application and restart

 

 

Front Desk.

 

 

2) The scanner driver may not have been

 

 

installed properly. Apply the hot fix for

 

 

LobbyWorks 4.0.6.1. Uninstall the CSS SDK

 

 

using Add/Remove programs. Install the latest

 

 

SDK (9.42.37 or later). If the scanner was the

 

 

800 model, recalibrate the scanner.

 

Front Desk displays errors when

Yes –

 

 

attempting to start the application

1) If you encounter any device compatible error

 

 

during launch of Front Desk, manually register

 

 

the following DLLs located in the LobbyWorks

 

 

installed path bin folder:

 

 

-

BIZCOM.dll

 

 

-

ScanW.dll

 

 

-

ScanWex.dll

 

 

2) The CSS SDK may have been uninstalled.

 

 

Please confirm that a single version of the

 

 

CSS SDK is installed.

What does a per-character accuracy rate mean?

A 99% OCR accuracy rate does not mean that only one license out of 100 will be wrong. It means that approximately one character will misread on every license (assuming that each license has approximately 100 characters). A misread could be O vs 0, i vs l, u vs v, etc. This does not mean that every card will have one mistake – you could have three cards read perfectly and one card with multiple mistakes.

Why do some licenses work in Autodetect mode while for other licenses I need to select a specific state?

Auto detection like OCR works on visual information but instead of looking for characters it is looking for shapes, usually the shape of the word that represents the state or some other unique identifier that can only be found on one state. To help the SDK with auto detection, it is important that the scanned image shows the entire card and that the image is good.

How do I recalibrate the 800 scanner on LobbyWorks 4.0.6.1 or later?

When calibration of the scanner completes via Front Desk or Kiosk, the following files will be created in the ScanShell800 folder in the system:

PixGan6.dat

2

PixGanG6.dat

PixOff6.dat

PixOffG6.dat

To recalibrate the scanner, delete these files and relaunch the Front Desk or Kiosk application in the system.

Path for WinXP: C:\Documents and Settings\All Users\Application Data\Card Scanning Solutions\ScanShell800

Path for VISTA: C:\ProgramData\Card Scanning Solutions\ScanShell800

Path for Windows 7: C:\ProgramData\Card Scanning Solutions\ScanShell800

3

File Breakdown

Fact Name Description Governing Law
OCR Technology Accuracy The Optical Character Recognition (OCR) technology achieves a per-character accuracy rate of 95-99%, but it is not 100% accurate. Not applicable
Hologram Limitations New driver licenses often include holograms that can obstruct text, making it difficult for OCR to read the information. Not applicable
Scanner Upgrade Recommendation Users experiencing OCR issues with holograms should consider upgrading to the Snapshell IDR scanner for better performance. Not applicable
SDK Updates Card Scanning Solutions releases SDK updates regularly to accommodate new driver license designs. Keeping the SDK updated is crucial for proper scanning. Not applicable
Secure Scans If a license does not scan properly, collect a secure scan to send to technical support for troubleshooting. Not applicable
Calibration Process To recalibrate the 800 scanner, delete specific files from the ScanShell800 folder and relaunch the application. Not applicable

Guide to Using Drivers License

Filling out your driver's license form can seem daunting, but with a little guidance, it becomes a straightforward task. Once you have completed the form, you will be ready to submit it for processing, which is the next step in obtaining your driver's license.

  1. Begin by gathering all necessary personal information, including your full name, address, date of birth, and Social Security number.
  2. Next, locate the section for your driver's license number. If you are applying for a new license, leave this section blank.
  3. Fill in your physical description, including height, weight, eye color, and hair color.
  4. Provide details regarding your previous driving experience, if applicable. This may include the types of vehicles you have driven and any previous licenses held.
  5. Indicate your residency status by selecting the appropriate option, such as a U.S. citizen or legal resident.
  6. Review the form for accuracy. Double-check that all information is complete and correctly entered.
  7. Sign and date the form at the designated area, confirming that all information provided is truthful and accurate.
  8. Finally, submit the completed form to the appropriate agency, either online or in person, depending on your state's requirements.

Get Answers on Drivers License

What should I do if a driver license is not scanning properly?

If a driver license is not scanning correctly, start by checking the settings in the LobbyWorks software. Ensure that both Autodetect and state-specific scan settings are properly configured. If the issue persists, check if the latest CSS SDK has an update that addresses the problem. If not, collect a secure scan of the license to provide to Honeywell technical support for further assistance.

Why are some licenses not recognized by the scanner?

There are several reasons why a license might not be recognized. If the license has holograms, this could obstruct the text, making it difficult for the scanner to read. In such cases, consider upgrading to the Snapshell IDR model, which is designed to handle these situations better. Additionally, if a specific license model was previously compatible but now requires manual selection, a secure scan should be collected for review.

What does a per-character accuracy rate mean?

A per-character accuracy rate of 99% does not imply that one out of every hundred licenses will be read incorrectly. Instead, it means that on average, one character may be misread per license. For example, this could lead to confusion between similar characters like O and 0 or i and l. The number of errors can vary from card to card.

Why do some licenses work in Autodetect mode while others require a specific state selection?

Autodetect mode relies on visual patterns rather than text alone. It looks for unique shapes or identifiers that represent a specific state. If the scanned image does not clearly show the entire card, the software may struggle to make an accurate identification. Ensuring a clear and complete image can help improve the chances of successful autodetection.

How can I recalibrate the 800 scanner?

To recalibrate the 800 scanner, you need to delete specific calibration files from the ScanShell800 folder on your system. After deleting the files, relaunch the Front Desk or Kiosk application. The paths for these files vary depending on your Windows version:

  • Windows XP: C:\Documents and Settings\All Users\Application Data\Card Scanning Solutions\ScanShell800
  • Windows Vista: C:\ProgramData\Card Scanning Solutions\ScanShell800
  • Windows 7: C:\ProgramData\Card Scanning Solutions\ScanShell800

What should I do if Front Desk does not detect the scanner?

If Front Desk fails to detect the scanner, first check if another application is using it, as a scanner can only connect to one software at a time. If that’s not the issue, ensure that the scanner driver was installed correctly. You may need to apply a hot fix for LobbyWorks and reinstall the latest CSS SDK.

What should I do if I encounter errors when starting Front Desk?

If you receive device compatibility errors when launching Front Desk, you may need to manually register specific DLL files located in the LobbyWorks installation path. Additionally, confirm that only one version of the CSS SDK is installed on your system. If issues continue, reinstall the SDK to ensure proper functionality.

Common mistakes

Filling out a driver's license form can seem straightforward, but many people make common mistakes that can lead to delays or complications. One frequent error is failing to double-check personal information. Individuals often rush through the form and overlook critical details such as their name, address, or date of birth. These inaccuracies can cause significant issues, especially if the information does not match other identification documents.

Another mistake occurs when applicants neglect to provide a valid signature. A signature is a crucial part of the driver's license application process. Without it, the form may be deemed incomplete, and the application can be rejected. It's essential to sign the form clearly and in the designated area to avoid any confusion.

People also tend to overlook the importance of providing accurate identification documents. Many applicants submit copies of their IDs that are either outdated or do not meet the required specifications. This can result in delays as the authorities may need to request additional documentation. Always ensure that the documents you provide are current and comply with the requirements set by the licensing authority.

In addition, applicants sometimes forget to review the application for any additional requirements specific to their state. Each state may have unique requirements, such as proof of residency or additional identification forms. Not being aware of these can lead to unnecessary setbacks in the application process.

Lastly, many individuals fail to keep a copy of their completed application for their records. This can lead to confusion if there are any follow-up questions or issues with the application. Keeping a copy allows applicants to refer back to their submission and resolve any discrepancies that may arise.

Documents used along the form

When applying for or renewing a driver's license, several other forms and documents may be needed to ensure a smooth process. Below is a list of commonly used documents that can accompany the driver's license form. Each serves a specific purpose in verifying identity or fulfilling legal requirements.

  • Proof of Identity: This document verifies your identity and can include a passport, birth certificate, or other government-issued ID. It is essential for establishing who you are when applying for a driver's license.
  • Proof of Residency: To confirm your address, you may need to provide documents such as utility bills, bank statements, or rental agreements. This helps ensure that the information on your driver's license is accurate and up to date.
  • Social Security Card: This card is often required to verify your Social Security number. It may be necessary for the application process, particularly in states that require it for identification purposes.
  • Medical Certificate: If you have certain medical conditions that could affect your ability to drive, a medical certificate from a healthcare provider may be required. This document ensures that you meet the necessary health standards for driving.
  • Application for a Learner's Permit: If you are a new driver, you may need to complete this application before obtaining a full driver's license. It allows you to practice driving under certain conditions.
  • Traffic School Completion Certificate: If you have previously received a traffic violation, you may need to provide proof of completion of a traffic school program. This can demonstrate your commitment to safe driving.

Gathering these documents ahead of time can help streamline the application process for your driver's license. Being prepared not only saves time but also reduces the likelihood of any issues arising during your visit to the licensing office.

Similar forms

  • Passport: Like a driver's license, a passport serves as a government-issued identification document. Both are used to verify identity and citizenship, although passports are primarily for international travel.
  • State ID Card: A state ID card functions similarly to a driver's license but does not grant driving privileges. Both are issued by state governments and serve as valid forms of identification.
  • Military ID: A military ID is issued to service members and their families. It serves as a valid form of identification like a driver's license, providing proof of identity and military affiliation.
  • Social Security Card: This card is used to verify an individual's Social Security number. While it does not serve as a photo ID, it is often required alongside a driver's license for various applications.
  • Voter Registration Card: This card confirms an individual's registration to vote. It may be used as identification when voting, similar to how a driver's license serves as ID in various situations.
  • Employee ID Card: Issued by employers, this card verifies employment status. It often includes a photo, making it similar to a driver's license in terms of identity verification.
  • Student ID Card: A student ID card is issued by educational institutions. It serves as identification for students, similar to how a driver's license identifies drivers.
  • Health Insurance Card: This card provides proof of health insurance coverage. While it does not typically include a photo, it is often used alongside a driver's license for medical services.
  • Credit or Debit Card: These cards are used for financial transactions. While not government-issued, they often include the cardholder's name and may be used for identity verification.
  • Resident Alien Card: Also known as a Green Card, it is issued to non-citizens. It serves as proof of legal residency in the U.S., similar to how a driver's license proves identity and residency.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the Driver's License form, there are important dos and don'ts to keep in mind to ensure a smooth process. Here’s a helpful list:

  • Do ensure that you have the latest version of the CSS SDK installed to support new driver license designs.
  • Do check that the driver license is oriented correctly in the scanner, with the image facing down.
  • Don't attempt to scan a license with holograms using an older model scanner that may not support it.
  • Don't skip the recalibration of the scanner if you encounter scanning issues; this can improve accuracy.

Misconceptions

Misconceptions about the Drivers License form can lead to confusion and inefficiencies. Here are seven common misconceptions, along with clarifications to help you navigate the process more effectively.

  • OCR technology is 100% accurate. Many people believe that Optical Character Recognition (OCR) technology works flawlessly. In reality, no OCR technology currently available achieves 100% accuracy. The accuracy rate typically ranges from 95% to 99%, meaning some errors may occur.
  • All driver licenses are compatible with older scanners. It’s a common assumption that older scanner models can handle all new driver license designs. However, many new licenses include holograms that can obstruct text, making them difficult for older models to read properly.
  • Updating the SDK will always solve scanning issues. While updating the Software Development Kit (SDK) can resolve many problems, it’s not a guaranteed fix. If issues persist after an update, further troubleshooting, such as providing a secure scan to technical support, may be necessary.
  • Holograms on licenses are just for show. Some users think that holograms are merely decorative. In fact, they serve a critical function in preventing and detecting counterfeit IDs, which can complicate the scanning process.
  • All licenses are scanned the same way. Many assume that the scanning process is uniform for all licenses. In truth, some licenses require specific settings or state selections to be scanned accurately, especially if they differ significantly in design.
  • Recalibrating the scanner is unnecessary. Some users may overlook the importance of recalibrating their scanners. Proper calibration is essential for ensuring that the scanner can accurately read the text on the licenses, especially after using it for a while.
  • Errors in scanned data are always due to the scanner. It’s a misconception that any inaccuracies in scanned data are solely the fault of the scanner. Factors like the quality of the scanned image and the condition of the license itself can also contribute to errors.

Understanding these misconceptions can help improve the efficiency of your scanning process and enhance the accuracy of your data entry. Always ensure that you are using the latest technology and following best practices for scanning.

Key takeaways

Here are four key takeaways about filling out and using the Drivers License form:

  • OCR Technology Limitations: Optical Character Recognition (OCR) technology is not 100% accurate. Expect a recognition rate of 95-99%. This means some errors may occur when scanning licenses.
  • Holograms and Scanning Issues: Newer driver licenses often include holograms that can obstruct text. If using an 800 model scanner, consider upgrading to the Snapshell IDR for better performance.
  • SDK Updates: Regular updates to the Software Development Kit (SDK) are crucial. If you encounter an unsupported license template, updating the CSS SDK may resolve the issue.
  • Secure Scans for Support: If problems persist, collect a secure scan of the problematic license. This scan can be sent to Honeywell technical support for further assistance.