Pioneering identity cards that contain details of a person's eye colour, fingerprints and facial features are to be tested in Birmingham this week.
Residents will be able to sign up to the voluntary scheme that will test the feasibility of introducing the controversial identity cards carrying such personal details.
The Government hopes the information on micro-chips implanted into passports or driving licences will stamp out the growing problem of identity theft.
Throughout this week, members of the public will be able to sign up to have their eye, finger and facial biometrics recorded as part of the UK Passport Service trial.
Volunteers can enrol at the mobile facility touring the country and get a demonstrator smart card containing their details on an electronic chip.
Home Office Minister, Des Browne said: "Identity crime is a growing threat to all countries and facilitates organised crime, illegal immigration, benefit fraud, illegal working and terrorism.
"Only by planning ahead and taking steps can we ensure we will be able to take on the increasingly sophisticated methods used by criminals, and that UK citizens have a secure form of identity to use in everyday life and travel."
The Government plans to introduce a compulsory national UK identity card scheme to help tackle organised crime and protect the identities of British citizens.
Using cutting-edge technology, the cards will link individuals' unique bio-metric data, such as iris scans, to a secure national database.
* Any UK resident aged 18 or over can volunteer to take part in the trial. Volunteers will complete a questionnaire about their experience of the enrolment process. To take part in the Birmingham trial call the hotline number on 0161 601 8088.
