Penn State is planning to launch a new ID card system to create a more user-friendly experience across campus, according to a release.

New ID cards will feature a sleeker design that comes built-in with contactless features that would let users open locks and complete purchases with the tap of a card. To move that process along, Penn State says it will start installing new card readers around campus.

“Campus life is changing for students in higher education,” John Papazoglou, associate vice president for Auxiliary and Business Services, said in a release. “The updated campus card will help Penn State create a secure, seamless digital campus experience for the 21st century.” 

The new design will also allow cardholders to display their preferred name and pronouns in alignment with updates to Penn State’s chosen identity policies.

“Equity, inclusion, and belonging have also been important parts of this project,” said Brian Patchcoski, assistant vice president for diversity, equity, and inclusion in Penn State Student Affairs. “The card also features a variety of resources that our Penn State community members may utilize in furthering our collective support and community engagement, while also uplifting a key symbol of pride in our community — the Nittany Lion.” 

Incoming students and new employees will be the first groups to receive Penn State’s new IDs. The university is planning out a re-carding process for all students, faculty, and staff, but details haven’t been released yet.

For more information on the new id+ card’s designs and features, visit idcard.psu.edu.