SHENZHEN Bay Checkpoint officially launched facial recognition smart lanes for vehicle drivers Wednesday.

The new measure allows qualified drivers to complete immigration inspection procedures conveniently without having to exit their vehicles while biometric sensors verify their identity.

Previously, drivers were required to present physical documents or undergo more manual checks.

According to border inspection authorities, the service is available to mainland residents holding valid permits for traveling to and from Hong Kong and Macao. Foreign nationals and residents from China’s Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan with valid mainland travel permits are also eligible.

Drivers must pre-register their vehicle permits and biometric data — including fingerprints and facial images — with border authorities to use the automated system.

During the process, a camera captures the driver’s image while they stay in the driver’s seat. Once the system confirms a biometric match against the registered database, the gate opens. Border officials said the lanes still accept physical permits for those who choose not to use the facial recognition feature.

The rollout follows the successful implementation of facial recognition technology in pedestrian halls at the city’s major checkpoints including Shenzhen Bay, Huanggang, Futian, Luohu, Liantang, and Wenjindu, as part of the city’s efforts to enhance regional connectivity. (SD News)