Processing speed is such that most vehicles can be analyzed in a single lane of traffic for typical flows and speeds on main roads without the need for specialized, expensive hardware. The recognition software is coded in the C language and has been implemented on both Sun Sparcstations and PC. The images are captured by simple electronic fast-shutter cameras that are connected through a cable and controller to the computer. The system allows the systematic checking of large numbers of registration plates against computer records of stolen vehicles. Commercial applications can include intelligent barrier control or the monitoring of areas with complex movement patterns; the latter could be part of ground-movement control in airports, where both road vehicle registrations and aircraft tailcodes would be useful. Road transport authorities are often concerned with monitoring traffic patterns, for which an identification capability is a useful analytical tool. This technology could enable a vehicle arriving on site to be automatically identified. Traffic signals could then route the vehicle without delay to the appropriate loading dock. The technology of the system is described, including how it manages identification from various styles of vehicle number plates.