Abstract: A personal identification system (1) comprises an identification information memory (18) for recording identification data which identifies an individual; an application-specific code memory (16) for recording application-specific codes each being a combination of the identification data corresponding to each of applications of the personal identification system (1); a scanner (28) and a keyboard (23) for accepting input of certification data corresponding to the identification data from a user of the personal identification system (1); a first comparing section (24) for judging whether the certification data matches the application-specific code recorded in the application-specific code memory (16); and a second comparing section (26) for judging whether the certification data matches the identification data recorded in the identification information memory (18).

Abstract: A card which is readable by a card reader is provided, in which an insertion direction of the card relative to the card reader, and a transactional function of the card can be easily recognized by visually handicapped users. In particular, the card is made up of a card body having a machine readable portion thereon which is readable by the card reader only when the card is inserted in a predetermined direction, and further includes an indication formed in the card body. Such an indication enables a user to tactually recognize the insertion direction with respect to the card reader, as well as the purpose or transactional function of the card, merely by means of touching the card with one's fingers. In a first mode of the invention, the indication is provided by a depression or a projection, whereas according to other modes, cutouts, or a slanted side edge of the card body may provide the desired indication of direction or function of the card.