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How Late Does UPS Deliver to Residential Areas? Delivery Hours Explained

how to know if ups package requires signature

Did you know missing a signature-required delivery can delay your package for days? Knowing if your UPS package needs a signature is key to smooth delivery.

Package theft is a big problem for homeowners. Thieves often target porches, even in busy areas. A signature ensures your package goes to the right person, giving you peace of mind.

There are three easy ways to find out if UPS needs a signature. First, check your email for tracking details from the sender. Second, use the UPS tracking system online. Third, look for a UPS Signature Required label on your package.

Knowing if UPS needs a signature helps you plan your day. You can be home, ask a family member, or make other plans. This knowledge saves you from frustration and keeps your items safe.

This guide covers UPS signature services. You’ll learn about signature requirements, when they apply, and how to handle them. By the end, checking signature requirements will be easy.

Key Takeaways

  • Email notifications from senders include signature requirement information for your packages
  • The UPS tracking page displays whether your delivery needs a signature confirmation
  • Physical UPS Signature Required labels on packages alert you to signature requirements
  • Knowing about signature needs lets you plan ahead and avoid missed deliveries
  • Signature requirements protect high-value items from theft and ensure proper delivery
  • You have multiple options for handling signature-required packages if you’re not home

Understanding UPS Signature Delivery Services

When you order valuable items or age-restricted products, you might see UPS delivery signature options. These services make sure someone is home to get your package. Knowing how signature delivery works helps you get ready for your package’s arrival.

Signature requirements are for good reasons. They keep you and the sender safe by making sure the package goes to the right person. This is very important for things like high-value electronics, jewelry, or sensitive items.

What Is UPS Signature Required?

UPS Signature Required means the driver can’t leave your package without someone there to sign for it. You, a family member, or any adult at your address can sign for it. The driver needs to know someone authorized received the shipment.

If your tracking shows signature required, plan to be home during delivery hours. The UPS driver won’t leave your package without this step. This keeps valuable, dangerous, or age-restricted items safe from theft and ensures they’re handled right.

Why Signature Confirmation Matters

A UPS signature confirmation notice proves your package was delivered. It keeps packages safe from thieves, which is very important during busy shopping times. You know your shipment arrived safely.

Signature services help you in many ways:

  • Prevents porch pirates from stealing your packages
  • Creates official delivery records for insurance claims
  • Ensures age-restricted items reach authorized recipients
  • Provides peace of mind for valuable shipments
  • Protects dangerous or sensitive goods

Understanding these signature delivery services helps you manage your shipments with confidence and security.

Types of UPS Signature Services

UPS has three delivery signature options to keep your packages safe. Each option meets different shipping needs. Knowing which one is for your package helps you plan and know what to expect.

UPS Signature Required

This option is for valuable items. Any adult at your address must sign for the package. You don’t have to be the named recipient. A neighbor or family member can sign for you.

Typical items needing this service include:

  • Electronics and computers
  • Jewelry and watches
  • Important documents
  • Collectibles

The cost is $5.55 per parcel. Your UPS tracking will show “Signature Required.”

UPS Adult Signature Required

This service is for age-restricted products. The signer must be 21 or older and show a valid ID. It protects both the shipper and ensures legal compliance.

Products needing Adult Signature include:

  • Alcoholic beverages
  • Tobacco products
  • Firearms and ammunition
  • Certain pharmaceuticals

The cost is $6.70 per parcel. Your UPS tracking will show “Adult Signature Required.”

UPS Delivery Confirmation

This option is cheap and doesn’t need a signature. UPS sends delivery details to the shipper. It’s good for lower-value items.

It costs only $2 per parcel. Packages get tracking updates without needing a signature.

Service Type Age Requirement ID Required Cost Per Parcel Best For
UPS Signature Required Any Adult No $5.55 Electronics, Jewelry, Important Documents
UPS Adult Signature Required 21+ Years Old Yes $6.70 Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms
UPS Delivery Confirmation None Required No $2.00 Lower-Value Items, Standard Packages

Knowing your package’s delivery option helps you prepare. Check your order confirmation or ask the shipper. Your UPS tracking updates you on your package’s security and arrival.

How to Check If Your Package Requires a Signature

It’s easy to find out if your UPS package needs a signature. You don’t have to wait until it arrives. There are several ways to know before it gets to your door.

Check Your Email Notifications

Your email inbox has important info about your shipment. When you order, you get a tracking email from the retailer or UPS. Look for “Signature Required” or “Adult Signature Required” in the details.

Don’t forget to check your spam folder too. Sometimes, these emails end up there.

The email tells you what to expect. You can plan your day in advance. This is often the fastest way to discover if signature is required on your package.

Use the UPS Tracking Page

Go to ups.com or use the UPS mobile app to track your package. Enter your tracking number in the search box. The tracking system shows your delivery details section.

Look for any mention of signature requirements. UPS signature required tracking info is in the delivery instructions or special handling notes.

This method works anytime, day or night. You can check your package status whenever you want. The tracking page updates regularly, so refresh it for the latest info.

Look for Package Labels

If your package has already arrived, look at it carefully. UPS puts special labels or stickers on boxes that need signatures. These labels are easy to see and say so.

Look at all sides of the package, not just the top. Finding these labels tells you what to do next. You’ll know if you need to sign for it or if someone else can.

  • Check your shipping confirmation email first
  • Log into your UPS account to track UPS package signature requirement details
  • Search for physical labels on your package box
  • Contact UPS customer service if you remain unsure

Learning how to know if ups package requires signature takes just minutes. These three methods give you all the info you need. When you know what to expect, you can prepare and make sure you’re home when your package arrives.

Understanding Your UPS Tracking Information

When you order something that needs a signature, tracking is key. The UPS tracking system gives you all the details about your delivery. You can see proof of delivery right after it arrives through your UPS account. This includes the delivery date, time, and who signed for it.

Learning to read your tracking details helps you know when your package will arrive. It also tells you about any signature requirements.

Reading Tracking Status Updates

Your UPS tracking page shows different status messages as your package moves. “Out for Delivery” means it’s on the truck and coming to your house today. “Delivery Attempted” means the driver came but couldn’t complete the delivery. “Delivered” means your package has arrived.

Each status update tells you where your package is in the delivery process. Pay close attention to these messages. They help you understand what’s happening with your shipment.

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Identifying Signature Requirements in Tracking Details

The UPS tracking signature status is in a special section on your tracking page. This section shows if your package needs a standard signature, adult signature, or no signature at all. Look for specific notations that confirm the signature requirement type.

After delivery, your UPS signature required tracking information shows who signed the package and the exact time. You can even view the signature image on the tracking page in most cases. If a delivery attempt failed because no one was home to sign, you will see “Attempted Delivery” with details about the next delivery attempt.

UPS signature required tracking status display on tracking page

Understanding these tracking details gives you confidence about your delivery. You know exactly what signature requirements apply and when your package will arrive. This transparency helps protect your shipment and ensures proper delivery.

Tracking Status What It Means Action Needed
Out for Delivery Your package is on the delivery truck today Be ready to sign for the package
Delivery Attempted Driver came but no one answered the door Check your InfoNotice and reschedule delivery
Delivered Package has been successfully delivered View signature proof on tracking page
In Transit Package is moving through UPS network Monitor tracking for updates
Return in Progress Package is being sent back to sender Contact UPS if this is unexpected

Learning to read your UPS tracking information takes just a few minutes. These details help you stay prepared for signature-required deliveries and know exactly what to expect.

What Happens If You Miss a Signature Required Delivery

Missing a signature-required delivery can feel stressful. But, UPS has systems to help you get your package. Your driver will try to deliver your package several times.

Understanding these attempts helps you act fast. This way, you can avoid losing your package.

UPS InfoNotice Explained

When you’re not home, the UPS driver leaves a UPS InfoNotice on your door. This small paper slip has important info about your package. It shows your tracking number, the date and time of the attempt, and rescheduling options.

The notice tells you if the package can be left at a specific place. It also shows options for picking it up at a UPS facility. And, it tells you how to authorize delivery without a signature if allowed.

You’ll also get an email or text message if you’re enrolled in UPS My Choice. These digital alerts give you updates about your missed delivery attempt.

Delivery Attempt Process

UPS makes up to three delivery attempts for signature-required packages. Each attempt is on consecutive business days. This gives you chances to be home or arrange for someone to accept the package.

Knowing your delivery timeline helps you plan. Here’s what you should know:

  • The driver attempts delivery once per business day
  • Each attempt is noted in your tracking information
  • You can check if UPS delivery needs signature by monitoring your tracking page after each attempt
  • The driver will try different times of day to find you home
  • After three failed attempts, your package returns to the sender

The UPS system gives you chances to receive your package. Drivers adjust timing on subsequent attempts. Checking your tracking info regularly keeps you updated on the next attempt.

Rescheduling Options

You don’t have to wait for the driver to come back. There are several options to take control of your delivery:

Rescheduling Option How It Works Time Frame
Authorize Signature Waiver Allow the driver to leave the package without your signature (if sender permits) Next delivery attempt
Pickup at UPS Facility Collect your package from your local UPS location during business hours Available immediately after notice
Reschedule Delivery Choose a specific date and time that works for your schedule Within 5 business days
Authorize Another Person Give permission for a trusted family member or neighbor to sign Next delivery attempt

The best option depends on your situation. If you’re often away, authorizing someone to sign saves time. Picking up your package at a UPS Access Point gives you control over timing. Using UPS My Choice lets you pre-authorize delivery options before the driver arrives, preventing missed deliveries.

Don’t worry about a missed delivery. Contact UPS customer service through your tracking page if you have questions. The UPS team wants your delivery to succeed as much as you do.

UPS My Choice and Electronic Signatures

UPS My Choice makes getting packages easy. It’s free and lets you control your deliveries. You can see if a signature is needed before your package comes.

You can plan your deliveries, reschedule, and even sign for packages online. This helps you know if a signature is needed and act before your package arrives.

identify signature required shipment with UPS My Choice

What Is UPS My Choice?

UPS My Choice is a free online service. It tells you when packages are coming. You can see tracking details and manage your deliveries.

You can change delivery times, redirect packages, or send them to UPS Access Points. You can also see if a signature is needed in your account. This lets you get ready for packages that need a signature.

Pre-Authorizing Package Delivery

UPS My Choice lets you pre-authorize deliveries. You can check if a signature is needed and decide to sign online. This way, you can get packages without being home.

  • Authorize electronic signatures online
  • Skip physical signature requirements for qualifying packages
  • Receive notifications about delivery status
  • Reschedule deliveries to convenient times
  • Redirect packages to alternate locations

Electronic Signature Options

Electronic signatures are different from paper ones. With UPS My Choice, you can let UPS deliver without a signature. This keeps you and the driver safe.

UPS also offers contactless delivery. Drivers might ask for a photo ID from a safe distance during certain times.

Signature Type Electronic Pre-Authorization Available Best For
UPS Delivery Confirmation Yes Standard packages with delivery proof
UPS Signature Required Yes Regular packages needing signatures
UPS Adult Signature Required No Age-restricted items requiring verification

Not all packages can have electronic signatures. Adult Signature Required packages need a real signature. But, for most packages, UPS My Choice makes signing online easy.

When Signature Is Required: Common Scenarios

Knowing when UPS needs a signature helps you get ready for delivery. Your package might need a signature for a few reasons. Some items are risky or have special rules that need a signature.

High-Value Items and Electronics

Expensive items always need signatures. This includes things like smartphones, laptops, and gaming consoles. These items are stolen because they are expensive and can be sold fast.

Jewelry, designer clothes, and collectibles also need signatures. Your UPS signature notice proves you got your item safely. Without a signature, thieves could steal your package.

Age-Restricted Products

Some products need signatures because of the law. This includes alcohol, tobacco, firearms, and some vaping products. These rules keep dangerous items from kids.

Getting these items means showing ID and proof of age. Your signature shows you’re old enough for the product.

Product Type Signature Service Required Age Requirement
Alcohol (beer, wine, spirits) UPS Adult Signature Required 21+ years old
Tobacco products UPS Adult Signature Required 18+ years old
Firearms and ammunition UPS Adult Signature Required 18+ years old
Vaping products UPS Adult Signature Required 18+ years old

Important Documents and Pharmaceuticals

Legal papers and financial documents need signatures. This keeps them safe and proves who handled them. Courts and banks need this for important deals.

Prescription drugs and controlled substances also need signatures. This ensures you get the right medicine. UPS helps keep your health safe with these signatures.

  • Legal documents (wills, powers of attorney, contracts)
  • Financial paperwork (insurance policies, investment certificates)
  • Prescription medications
  • Controlled substances
  • Medical equipment
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Knowing these scenarios helps you prepare. If you’re expecting something valuable or important, be ready for a signature. Have your ID ready and plan to be home when it arrives.

Alternative Delivery Options for Signature-Required Packages

Missing a delivery can be frustrating. You might wonder if UPS delivery needs a signature. Luckily, you don’t have to be home. UPS offers flexible options for you to manage your delivery.

Authorizing a Neighbor or Family Member

One easy solution is to leave a signed note for the UPS driver. You can let a trusted neighbor, family member, or colleague sign for your package. This is good for most packages that need a signature.

But, Adult Signature Required packages are different. They need ID verification. So, you can’t let someone else sign for these.

Delivery to UPS Access Points

UPS Access Points are very convenient. You can find them at places like pharmacies and grocery stores. They can receive your package and you can pick it up when it’s easy for you.

To send your package to an Access Point:

  • Use UPS My Choice to update delivery instructions
  • Call UPS customer service before your package leaves the facility
  • Track UPS package signature requirement details through your account

Hold for Pickup at UPS Facilities

You can also ask UPS to hold your package at a local center. Then, you can pick it up when you’re ready. This is great for items you really want to get yourself.

Delivery Option Best For Timeline
Neighbor Authorization Standard signatures Immediate delivery
UPS Access Points Flexible pickup times 24-48 hours
Hold for Pickup High-value packages Request before delivery attempt

These options let you control your delivery and keep your package safe.

Tips for Receiving Signature-Required Packages

Getting a package that needs a signature can be easy. Just be ready when it comes. Knowing ahead of time makes everything go smoothly.

Planning for Delivery Day

When you know you need a signature, plan your day. You can:

  • Work from home on the expected delivery date
  • Arrange for a trusted family member or roommate to be present
  • Use UPS My Choice to narrow down your delivery window
  • Keep your phone nearby in case the driver needs to call

Having a clear delivery time makes it easier to be ready. Drivers often call when they’re near, so you can get to the door.

Setting Up Delivery Alerts

Get updates in real-time. Set up alerts through your UPS account. You can get texts and emails when:

  1. Your package leaves the UPS facility
  2. Your delivery is out for delivery today
  3. The driver is nearby your address

These alerts help you know exactly when to be at the door.

Communicating with the Shipper

If you think you might not be home, talk to the shipper first. Ask about sending it to work or choosing a faster option. Good communication helps avoid missed deliveries.

Communication Method Best For Timeframe
Email Contact Pre-shipment changes Before shipment
Phone Call Urgent adjustments Immediately
Order Notes Special delivery instructions During checkout

Being prepared and talking to the shipper helps. These steps make sure your package arrives right.

Costs and Service Availability

UPS delivery signature options have different prices. This helps you understand why your package has signature needs. The extra cost ensures your package is delivered safely.

UPS signature confirmation notice is a sign of the sender’s care. It shows they want your order to be safe. Let’s look at what these services cost and which shipping methods they support.

Signature Service Pricing

UPS charges differently for signature services. Here’s what shippers pay for these services:

Service Type Cost Per Parcel Best For
UPS Signature Required $5.55 Standard valuable packages
UPS Adult Signature Required $6.70 Age-restricted items
UPS Delivery Confirmation $2.00 Basic proof of delivery

These fees are added when the shipping label is made. If you need to add a signature service later, there’s an extra charge.

Eligible UPS Shipping Services

Not all UPS services offer signature options. Your package can get these services through:

  • UPS Ground
  • UPS Next Day Air
  • UPS Next Day Air Saver
  • UPS 2nd Day Air A.M.
  • UPS 2nd Day Air
  • UPS 3 Day Select
  • UPS Worldwide Express Plus
  • UPS Worldwide Express
  • UPS Worldwide Saver
  • UPS Worldwide Expedited
  • UPS Standard

When Additional Charges Apply

Some items need special signature options. This can make shipping more expensive. For example, alcohol and firearms need UPS Adult Signature Required. This service is often used with premium services like UPS Next Day Air.

This is why some packages cost more to ship. Your shipper isn’t wasting money. They’re making sure your package is safe and legal.

Troubleshooting Common Signature Delivery Issues

Even with careful planning, signature-required deliveries can sometimes hit a snag. Understanding what went wrong helps you take the right steps to fix the problem. Your UPS tracking signature status gives you clues about what happened with your package. Let’s walk through the most common issues and how to resolve them quickly.

Package Shows Delivered But You Didn’t Sign

You check your UPS tracking and see “Delivered,” but you never signed anything. This confusing situation has several possible causes. Your driver might have left the package with a neighbor who signed on your behalf. You could have set up electronic pre-authorization through UPS My Choice and forgot about it. In rare cases, the package went to the wrong address by mistake.

Start by asking neighbors if they signed for your package. Check your UPS My Choice account settings to see if you approved a contactless delivery. Look at your UPS tracking signature status to see who signed the delivery. If you can’t find your package, contact UPS customer service right away with your tracking number and delivery address.

Driver Didn’t Attempt to Get Signature

You were home all day but never saw a UPS InfoNotice signature delivery notice on your door. Your package shows “Delivered” even though it required a signature. This breaks UPS delivery rules and should be reported. Driver errors do occur. System glitches can cause packages to be marked delivered without proper steps being followed.

Report this issue to UPS customer service as soon as you notice it. Explain that you were home but received no UPS InfoNotice signature delivery attempt. Describe exactly what happened and where the package was left. UPS takes these violations seriously and will investigate the matter with your driver.

Contacting UPS Customer Service

When you need help with signature issues, UPS customer service is ready to assist. Call 1-800-PICK-UPS to reach a support representative. Have your tracking number, delivery address, and a clear description of the problem ready before you call. This speeds up the process and gets you faster answers.

You can also use the online chat option on ups.com for quick help. If you bought your item from a retailer like Amazon or another company, contact them first. They have direct relationships with UPS and can help fix your issue. After three delivery attempts, your package returns to the shipper. You can view delivery signatures on your ups.com account using online UPS shipping tools. Most signature delivery problems get resolved quickly when you take action.

FAQ

How do I know if my UPS package requires a signature?

Check your email from UPS or the retailer for “Signature Required.” Use the UPS tracking system at ups.com or the UPS mobile app. Look for special labels or stickers on the package.The UPS tracking page shows if a signature is needed. It’s in a field labeled “Special Instructions,” “Delivery Options,” or “Signature Services.” If unsure, call UPS customer service or the shipper.

What is the difference between UPS Signature Required and UPS Adult Signature Required?

UPS Signature Required is for valuable items. Any adult can sign. UPS Adult Signature Required is for age-restricted goods. The signer must be at least 21 and show ID.Adult Signature Required is for legal reasons. It costs .70, while standard signature costs .55.

What are the costs of UPS signature services?

UPS Signature Required costs .55. Adult Signature Required costs .70. UPS Delivery Confirmation costs .These fees are for the shipper. Adding signature requirements later costs more.

How do I track my UPS package signature status?

Visit ups.com or open the UPS mobile app. Enter your tracking number. Look for “Special Instructions,” “Delivery Options,” or “Signature Services.”The tracking page shows status updates. It also shows if a signature was obtained. You can view the signature image and delivery time.

What is a UPS InfoNotice and what should I do if I receive one?

A UPS InfoNotice is left when you’re not home. It has your tracking number and delivery details. It shows the next delivery attempt and options for pickup.You’ll also get email or text notifications. UPS tries three times before returning the package.

Can I authorize someone else to sign for my signature-required package?

Yes, you can let someone else sign for most packages. Leave a note for the UPS driver. But, for Adult Signature Required, you must be present.For age-restricted items, you need to be at least 21 and show ID.

What is UPS My Choice and how does it help with signature requirements?

UPS My Choice is a free service. It lets you control your deliveries. You can get delivery alerts and reschedule packages.It also lets you pre-authorize electronic signatures for some packages. This way, you don’t need to be home.

What types of items typically require a signature?

High-value items like electronics and jewelry need signatures. Age-restricted items like alcohol require Adult Signature Required. Important documents and pharmaceuticals also need signatures.

Can I have my signature-required package delivered to a UPS Access Point instead?

Yes, you can redirect your package to a UPS Access Point. Use UPS My Choice or call UPS customer service. You must request this before delivery.At the Access Point, you may need to show ID. For Adult Signature Required items, you must be at least 21 and show valid ID.

What should I do if my tracking shows “Delivered” but I never signed for the package?

Check with neighbors who may have signed for you. Review your UPS My Choice settings. Confirm the package wasn’t delivered to the wrong address.If you can’t find the package, contact UPS customer service. They can help you with your issue.

How can I set up delivery alerts for my signature-required package?

Enroll in UPS My Choice at ups.com. Enable text and email notifications for your tracking number. Customize your alerts to get updates when your package is out for delivery.This way, you’ll know when to be ready at the door. You can manage notifications for multiple packages.

What do I do if the driver didn’t attempt to get my signature but left the package?

If your package was left without a signature, report it to UPS customer service. Provide your tracking number and details about the issue.UPS may have made an error or used contactless delivery. Contact the shipper if you purchased through a retailer.

Which UPS shipping services are eligible for signature requirements?

Signature services work with most UPS shipping methods. This includes UPS Ground and all express services. But, some economy or freight services may not offer signature options.For age-restricted items, you must use premium services like UPS Next Day Air. This increases shipping costs.

What’s the typical delivery attempt schedule for signature-required packages?

UPS makes three delivery attempts. They try once per business day. If you miss the first attempt, you’ll have more chances.The exact timing depends on your location. You can arrange to be home or redirect to an Access Point.

How do I communicate with the shipper about signature requirements if I’m concerned about availability?

Contact the shipper before they ship. Discuss alternatives like sending to your workplace or using different shipping speeds.Ask if they can waive the signature requirement for non-age-restricted items. This proactive communication helps avoid missed deliveries.

What information should I provide when contacting UPS customer service about signature delivery issues?

Have your tracking number, delivery address, and issue details ready. Include the date of the missed delivery and any InfoNotice numbers.Reaching UPS through online chat can be faster. Providing complete information helps resolve your issue quickly.

Can I request a specific delivery time window for my signature-required package?

Through UPS My Choice, you can narrow the delivery window. You can reschedule, redirect, or request hold for pickup.Set up delivery alerts for the best experience. This way, you’ll know when the driver is nearby.

Are there any items that cannot be sent with signature requirements, or exceptions to signature rules?

Most items can be sent with signature requirements. But, age-restricted items like alcohol require Adult Signature Required. You can’t opt out of this.Some economy or freight services may not offer signature options. Certain hazardous materials have specific shipping restrictions.

What happens to my package if I miss all three delivery attempts?

If you miss all three attempts, the driver will leave a final InfoNotice. The package will be returned to the shipper.Contact the shipper or UPS customer service to arrange redelivery. Many shippers will reship at no extra charge.

How do I verify that a signature was actually obtained for my delivered package?

Check your UPS tracking page for confirmation details. It shows the signature image, the name of the person who signed, and the exact time of delivery.If you don’t see this information, the package may have been left with a neighbor or an error occurred. Review your contact information and any electronic pre-authorizations.

What should I do if I have a gated apartment or community and worry about signature-required delivery?

Tell the shipper about your gated community before shipping. Add specific delivery instructions to your address.In UPS My Choice, add special instructions to your delivery preferences. Contact UPS customer service in advance. Keep your phone handy on delivery day.

What’s the difference between checking signature requirements before versus after a package ships?

Before shipping, the shipper decides on signature requirements. This is when it’s most cost-effective. After shipping, adding signature requirements costs more.Shippers decide based on item value and type. You’ll know signature is required through your shipping confirmation email and the UPS tracking page.

Can I refuse a signature-required delivery?

Yes, you can refuse a signature-required delivery. But, this creates complications. The package will be returned to the shipper, and they may charge return shipping fees.For age-restricted items, refusing delivery is sometimes necessary. But, not answering the door is different from actively refusing. Contact the shipper if you have legitimate reasons for not wanting the delivery.

How does electronic signature work, and is it as secure as a physical signature?

Electronic signature for UPS deliveries works through pre-authorization via UPS My Choice. It’s documented in the UPS system with a timestamp and your account information.For security, this method works best for non-age-restricted items. Physical signatures prove the driver made contact and obtained verification of identity. Neither method is inherently more secure; they serve different purposes.

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