NCJ Number
130213
Journal
Journal of Forensic Sciences Volume: 36 Issue: 3 Dated: (May 1991) Pages: 813-819
Date Published
1991
Length
7 pages
Annotation
The accuracy of drivers license (DL) information is examined by comparing the height printed on current DL and compared with the actual measured height. Implications for forensic anthropology cases are discussed.
Abstract
A total of 512 white college student volunteers from anthropology courses at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville participated in the study. Of the group, 244 were females and 268 were males. Height was measured with a GPM anthropometer to 0.1 centimeter. The results showed that the DL height was significantly greater than the measured height in both sexes, but this difference was greater in males than in females. Some inaccuracies may be the result of a failure to update license information when new licensed are issued, but some inaccuracies may be the result of cultural preferences or personal deception. When comparing stature estimations from postmortem remains with antemortem records, several factors must be considered. Statistically the DL is greater than the actual measured height. Males tend to distort their stature more than females and round their height figures to even digits. 2 figures, 4 tables, and 13 references (Author abstract modified)