SF urges members to continue DBIDS registration

Published July 7, 2011
By Senior Airman Alexandria Mosness
20th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

SHAW AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. -- Shaw has gained another avenue of protecting the assets and people of the base called the Defense Biometric Identification System. DBIDS is a Department of Defense system developed as a force protection and identity management program to manage personnel, property and installation.

So, what does this mean for those trying to gain entry to Shaw?

"Anyone who needs to come on to the base will have to register into the system at the visitor's center," said Capt. David Celeste, 20th Security Forces Squadron operations officer. "If you do not come and register, you will soon not be allowed access to the base until the registration is accomplished."

This system is important because documents can be forged, but this adds another layer to the protection of the base, Celeste said. Once the ID card is scanned, the picture of the person will pop up on the screen to make sure it is the correct person.

"The benefits of the new system are a much more secure base," Celeste said. "We are able to make sure only individuals who have a reason to be on Shaw are authorized."

The biggest thing the operations officer stressed was for everyone to continue to register at the pass and ID section at the visitor's center. The process is very simple and takes approximately three to 10 minutes to complete per station.

The new system will also notify security forces of anyone who is on a wanted list or has a warrant.

Frequent Asked Questions

Who needs to register? Every DoD ID card holder requesting access to Shaw AFB will need to be registered. This includes military, retired, DoD contractors, dependents (must have sponsor present), and civilians affiliated with Shaw who needs access to the installation.

Where can I register and have my ID card scanned? The pass and ID section at the visitor's section.

What do I bring with me when I register? Your DoD ID cards. If you have multiple ones bring them.

Why must I register in person? Your fingerprint and picture is the vital piece of registration for biometric identification.

Why do I need my DOD ID card if you've swiped my fingerprint? No, just your ID card will be scanned. Your fingerprints are only used during the registration process and are an added security feature for personal identification.

Still have questions? Contact Raymond Owens at 803-895-5359 from 7 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.