The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Science and Technology Directorate (S&T) hosts a series of Biometric Technology Rallies to enhance industry innovation and advance technologies that support DHS and Homeland Security Enterprise operations. These rallies bring together subject matter experts, technology vendors and volunteers to test new and emerging biometric technology systems.
About the Rallies
Previous test results demonstrate that while some biometric technologies are improving, many tested technologies fall short in operational settings. Through S&T’s Biometric and Identity Technology Center, the rallies challenge industry to develop biometric systems to meet the requirements of high-throughput operations and employ controlled testing of candidate technologies in relevant scenarios.
The rallies are held at the Maryland Test Facility (MdTF), located in Upper Marlboro, Maryland. The MdTF is designed for large scale volunteer testing. For more information, visit the MdTF rally website.
2022 Rally Results
The 2022 Rally focused on the technical challenge of reliably identifying small, free-flowing groups of people opting-in to the process in crowded environments, like airports or ports of entry. Slides of the 2022 Biometric Technology Rally Results webinar are available.
Previous Rally Results
A recording and slides of the 2021 Biometric Technology Rally Results webinar are available on the MdTF Biometric Technology 2021 Rally Results website.
Additional Info
Check the MdTF rally website for the most up-to-date information about upcoming events, or sign-up with Peoplescreening@hq.dhs.gov to be included in communication about future rallies.
Individuals interested in contacting one or more rally participants should send an e-mail to peoplescreening@hq.dhs.gov with a detailed description of their request.