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Why the 2D barcode?

April 26, 2017barcode

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Why the 2D barcode?

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2D barcode technology is currently the most popular method for state DMVs (Department of Motor Vehicles) to store personal information on a driver’s license. Other technologies used are magnetic stripes and 1D barcodes. Some states are considering using smart card technology or a computer chip. The 2D barcode stores data along two dimensions and is therefore capable of containing much more information than the 1D barcode (seen on many food products) or the magnetic stripe (seen on credit cards and some drivers’ licenses). Specifically 2D barcodes can hold about 2,000 bytes of data, or enough to encode some text and a compressed image file. Currently 39 states include a 2D barcode on the backside of state-issued drivers’ licenses.