SGI to start using facial recognition for ID cards on Aug. 24

Facial recognition software is coming to Saskatchewan driver's licences and photo ID cards.

Starting Aug. 24, SGI will start using the technology. According to SGI, here's how it works:

• "The system creates a numerical template of the photo by using landmarks on the face".
• It measures things like the distance between eyes, size and shape of eyes, nose, cheekbones, and jaw.
• If the customer has a previous photo ID, it compares the "numeric template" to the new photo.
• It also compares the new photo to "all other photos in the database" to determine it is not the same as any other customers.

The changes were first confirmed in October 2015.

• Facial recognition software coming to SGI in 2016

Andrew Cartmell, SGI president and CEO, said the new system will help prevent identity theft, among other things.

"This enhances road safety for everyone because it means someone with a suspended or revoked driver's licence isn't able to continue driving by getting a new licence under a different name," Cartmell said in a news release.

"With this move, Saskatchewan joins most other Canadian provinces that are using facial recognition technology in their driver's licensing programs, as well as Passport Canada."

SGI said there is no additional cost for customers. Driver's licence and photo ID cards will remain valid for five years.

The contract to produce Saskatchewan driver's licences and photo ID cards was awarded to Veridos Canada Inc. on April 1, 2016.

People can find more information on facial recognition here.