Louisiana

In the hospitality industry, verifying the identity of guests is a crucial aspect of maintaining security and ensuring compliance with state laws. In Louisiana, this often involves the scanning of identification (ID) cards. However, the use of such technology is governed by specific laws and regulations. 

In Louisiana, hotels are allowed to scan IDs for specific purposes, including verifying a guest’s age, establishing their identity, and confirming their license status to operate a vehicle. The information obtained from the ID can also be disclosed under certain circumstances, such as verifying check payments, evaluating creditworthiness, detecting or reducing the risk of fraud, abuse, identity theft or other crimes, collection activities, or confirming that a guest has met the motor vehicle financial responsibility requirements.

The information can also be disclosed to specific entities such as the department of transportation, insurance licensees, notaries, financial institutions (if permitted by federal law), or law enforcement agencies.

For a more detailed understanding of these regulations, continue reading as we delve into the specifics of Louisiana’s ID scanning laws.

Detailed Analysis

The Legal Framework

The laws governing the scanning and use of ID information in Louisiana are primarily found in the Louisiana Revised Statutes (RS), specifically RS 32:411.1. This statute, enacted by the Louisiana legislature, provides detailed guidelines on the use of automatic license plate recognition systems and the handling of personal information derived from driver’s licenses and identification cards.

Verifying Age and Identity

According to RS 32:411.1, businesses, including hotels, are allowed to scan IDs for the purpose of verifying a customer’s age and establishing their identity. This is particularly important in hotels that sell alcohol, as it helps ensure compliance with state laws prohibiting the sale of alcohol to individuals under the age of 21.

Confirming License Status

Hotels, especially those offering valet parking services, can scan IDs to confirm a guest’s license status to operate a vehicle. This can help mitigate risks associated with allowing an unlicensed individual to operate a vehicle on the hotel’s property.

Disclosing Information

The statute also outlines the circumstances under which a business can disclose the information obtained from an ID. These include verifying a check payment, evaluating creditworthiness, detecting or reducing the risk of fraud, abuse, identity theft or other crimes, and collection activities. Hotels can also disclose this information to confirm that a guest has met the motor vehicle financial responsibility requirements.

The information can be disclosed to the department of transportation, insurance licensees, notaries, financial institutions (if permitted by federal law), or law enforcement agencies.

Compliance with Privacy Laws

While the scanning of IDs is permitted under Louisiana law, hotels must ensure that they comply with all relevant privacy laws. This includes obtaining the necessary consent from guests before scanning their IDs and ensuring that the information obtained is stored securely to prevent unauthorized access.

Please note that this information is intended to provide a general overview and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult with a legal professional for advice specific to your situation