Abstract: An iris recognition system and method generates a one-dimensional iris signature that is translation, rotation, illumination and scale invariant. It allows users to enroll poor quality iris images that would be rejected by conventional methods. In addition, the system and method generates a list of possible matches instead of only the best match. In this way, the users could potentially identify the iris image by deeper analysis (such as using traditional iris recognition algorithm for more accurate iris identification). Further, the system and method permits more toleration of noise (such as glare introduced by contact lens or eye glasses). Finally, the system and method improves iris identification process computational efficiency. The system stores a one-dimensional signature as opposed to the conventional two-dimensional image.