How to Set Up Driver Identification on a GPS Tracker

Driver identification turns a GPS tracker from a tool that tells you where a vehicle went into one that tells you who was driving it. Setting it up is straightforward once you understand the parts involved: a compatible tracker, a driver identification keypad or tag, and a few minutes of configuration. This guide walks through how to set up driver identification on a GPS tracker, step by step, whatever fleet you run.

What You Need to Identify Drivers

Two pieces of hardware make driver identification work: the GPS tracker already fitted to the vehicle, and a driver ID input device — usually a keypad. The keypad lets each driver enter a personal PIN, or tap a card or tag, so the tracker can stamp every trip with the right driver. Before buying, confirm your tracker supports driver ID and which connection method it uses. For a full comparison of the options, see our Driver ID Keypad Guide: PIN vs BLE vs iButton & RFID.

Step 1: Choose a Driver Identification Method

There are four common methods — PIN keypad, Bluetooth (BLE), iButton and RFID — and each suits a different fleet. PIN keypads are the most practical for shared and pool vehicles because there is no token to lose. BLE keypads avoid wiring. iButton and RFID use a physical token. Our keypad comparison guide breaks down the trade-offs in detail.

Step 2: Pick a Compatible Keypad

Match the keypad to your tracker and environment. For rugged, outdoor vehicles, a wired IP68 unit like the STL-1307 is a solid choice; for dual PIN-and-card flexibility, the GC-2673 adds a 13.56 MHz NFC reader; and to avoid running cables, the NN-21382 BLE keypad pairs wirelessly. You can see the full line-up on our driver ID keypad range.

Step 3: Wire or Pair the Keypad to the Tracker

Wired keypads connect over the 1-Wire (iButton) interface — trackers such as the Teltonika FMB225 expose a 1-Wire data line for exactly this. Bluetooth keypads pair wirelessly with BLE-capable units like the Teltonika FMT100. Wired installs are permanent and tamper-resistant; BLE installs are faster and cleaner. Follow your tracker's wiring diagram, and keep the keypad within easy reach of the driver.

Step 4: Assign Driver PINs and Configure Your Platform

In your telematics platform, create a driver record for each person and assign a unique PIN or tag ID. Enable driver authentication in the device configuration so the tracker expects an ID at the start of each trip. Optionally, set the tracker to warn — or immobilise — if no valid ID is entered, which prevents unauthorised use.

Step 5: Test and Roll Out

Before fitting the whole fleet, test one vehicle end to end: enter a PIN, drive, and confirm the trip is attributed to the right driver in your platform. Once it works, replicate the configuration across the fleet. Pre-configured hardware makes a large rollout far quicker — ask your supplier whether keypads and trackers can be shipped ready to install.

Frequently Asked Questions

What hardware do I need for driver identification?

A GPS tracker that supports driver ID, plus a driver identification keypad or tag. The keypad connects to the tracker over 1-Wire or Bluetooth and lets each driver enter a PIN.

How does a driver ID keypad connect to a GPS tracker?

Wired keypads use the 1-Wire (iButton) interface; Bluetooth keypads pair wirelessly over BLE. Your tracker's supported method determines which keypad to choose.

Can I use the same keypad with any tracker brand?

Most keypads support major brands — Teltonika, Queclink, Ruptela and Digital Matter — as long as the connection method matches. Always confirm compatibility before ordering.

How do drivers log in?

Each driver enters their unique PIN on the keypad, or taps a card or tag, at the start of a shift. The tracker records the ID alongside the trip data.

Can driver identification prevent unauthorised vehicle use?

Yes. When paired with a tracker that supports immobilisation, the keypad can prevent the vehicle from starting until a valid PIN is entered.

Get Driver Identification Right First Time

Setting up driver identification comes down to matching a keypad to your tracker, wiring or pairing it, and assigning PINs in your platform. Tracking Hardware UK supplies driver ID keypads and compatible GPS trackers from stock, pre-configured on request. Browse our driver ID keypad range → or get in touch to confirm compatibility.