Abstract: An apparatus for scanning radio frequency identification (RFID) data from at least one RFID tag comprises a hands-free RFID reader that enables an operator to read or identify items having RFID tags without using the hands. The apparatus comprises a housing containing at least a portion of an RFID scanner. The housing can be affixed to a portion of an operator's body, such as a hand or wrist, using a strap or other like attachment. The RFID scanner further comprises an antenna, a radio transmitter/receiver coupled to the antenna, and a processor adapted to control operation of the radio transmitter/receiver. In an embodiment of the invention, the housing contains the antenna, and the radio transmitter/receiver and processor are disposed externally of the housing. In another embodiment of the invention, the housing contains the antenna, the radio transmitter/receiver, and the processor. The housing may further contain a power source adapted to provide power for the RFID scanner.