Fingerprint Identification and ID Cards

How long have we used fingerprints as a form of identification, and how do they work with ID cards?

The practice of using fingerprints for recognition purposes goes back to the late 1800's when pioneers such as Henry Faulds and Sir Francis Galton put forth the theory that people could be identified via their completely fingerprints.

Their reasoning was that every individual had a fingerprint that was totally unique. For example, comparing fingerprints of an accused person with, say, a bloody fingerprint at a crime scene helps identify whether the suspect actually committed the crime.

The use of fingerprints in conjunction with ID cards is common as a fingerprint can identify an individual even more effectively than a picture and personal information. The process of using fingerprints with ID cards is especially useful with youth or child ID cards. If a child gets lost, they can be identified by their fingerprint as well as their vital information.

What are different kinds of fingerprints and how are they identified?

Latent prints are fingerprints that are 'invisible' to the human eye and are usually accidental. They are made from the impression left on a surface by the ridges on the fingertips.

Patent prints are those that are obvious to the human eye and transfer any substance or matter from the finger to a surface. Instead of being 'lifted' like a latent print, they are usually photographed.

Plastic prints occur when a material like wax, putty or grease retains the ridge and shape of a finger tip. These prints are easily identifiable, but need special care as there may be latent prints in addition to visible ones.

Modern day chemical and physical processes are used by forensic specialists to identify fingerprints at crime scenes and for many other purposes. There are various ways of not only identifying the fingerprint, but any material that it may have been in contact with.

When would you use the fingerprint on an ID card for identifying someone?

In the case of identifying someone via a fingerprint, an ID card could serve as a useful tool. They could prove the innocence of someone suspected of a crime rapidly or more efficiently, allow for identification of a victim more easily, and identify a child that has been lost or was kidnapped and found.