DBIDS registration mandatory

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Melanie Holochwost
  • 56th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
LUKE AIR FORCE BASE, Ariz. --  Luke Air Force Base will begin using the Defense Biometric Identification System to validate authorization for entry through all gates July 3.

Gate guards will use handheld scanners to electronically scan identification cards instead of visual inspections.

The scanners will be wirelessly connected to a Defense Department database where identity data is stored. The database will include biometric data such as eye color, weight and other physical identifying information from the Defense Enrollment Eligibility Registration System.

The scan should take about the same amount of time as a visual inspection, but will make it easier to detect individuals who should not be on base, as well as finding people in an emergency.

DBIDS installation at Luke is currently in progress and all base personnel, including dependents and retirees, are required to register their ID cards in the DBIDS database by July 2.

"Registration is a quick and easy process; it usually takes less than five minutes," said Staff Sgt. Jason Purslow, 56th Security Forces Squadron pass and registration NCO in-charge.

"Registration stations are available atthe Lightning Gate Visitor's Center, South Gate Visitor's Center and base exchange."

Sergeant Purslow said Luke expects to register nearly 90,000 people, about 80,000 of which are retirees, during the registration period.

Staff Sgt. Francisco Al Cocer, 944th Security Forces Squadron combat arms instructor and DBIDS registration clerk, said active-duty members are way behind on registration compared to retirees and dependents.

"Only about 25 percent of active-duty members are currently registered," said Master Sgt. Shadd McKee, 56th SFS administrative security assistant superintendent.

DBIDS registration may need to be done more than once, Sergeant McKee said.

"Anytime anyone is issued a new ID card, they will have to reregister with DBIDS," he said. "This is because the barcode on the new card is different and will need to be scanned into the system."

Sergeant McKee said it is very important that everyone in the vehicle is registered.

"One hundred percent identification checks will occur if there is an exercise or other instance requiring a security measure increase," he said. "If a person in the vehicle isn't registered, they will not be allowed on base (without going to the visitors center)."