FBI adds iris scanning to identification tools BRIDGEPORT, W.Va (WDTV) - The FBI has added iris scanning as a new identification biometric, joining fingerprints and DNA in the agency’s identification tools. The FBI holds over 161 million sets of fingerprints in its Next Generation Identification database. The agency is now building a new database for iris identification. The iris scanning process uses a pair of goggles equipped with infrared light technology to capture a high-quality image. The detailed image of an iris is then uploaded into the database. Officials say iris identification is as reliable as a fingerprint. Each iris is unique and structurally distinct, making it suitable for recognition purposes. Approximately 2,500 agencies across the United States are using the iris technology. The technology is only implemented in states with laws allowing the enrollment and search of an iris. “When you look at it from the single type perspective of who are the largest contributors today, we have the Department of Homeland Security,” said Krista Koch, program manager for the CJIS Division. “They’ve submitted about 1.5 million sets of irises to the next generation identification.” The FBI did not discover the technology but added it to their identification biometric tools to assist law enforcement locally and across the country. “It strengthens our identification abilities across the nation and anything that we can do to support law enforcement, we absolutely march in that direction,” Koch said. “You’re able to submit an iris, enroll it at a rest point, and that’s what the goggles will demonstrate, or at a booking station in a stationary manner.” Editor’s note: The video for this story will be added once it airs. Please check back for the updated video. Copyright 2026 WDTV. All rights reserved.