Q. How does the access card work?

A. These cards are what are known as "proximity cards" and need to be held up to the reader. There is a small wire inside the card which will allow the card to work when it is held up close to the card reader. Some card readers are more sensitive than others and can read the cards from a greater distance. Each time the card is used, a record is recorded of the date, time, and door accessed. The system also creates a record of any time an unauthorized card holder attempts to gain access through a door. Please remember that once in a building, unless there are internal doors controlled by the access system, a card is not needed to exit the building.

Q. I work at more than one site. Will I need multiple cards?

A. No. Once completely installed, the card access system will allow an approved user to have access to multiple buildings.

Q. Who decides what access I get?

A. Access is decided by your Director, Facilitator, or Department Supervisor and authorized by the appointed authority or authorized designee. Additional access can be granted after the card has been issued when your supervisor submits another badge request form requesting the additional access. The cardholder does not have to come get a new picture as the authorizations are added electronically.

Q. Can I give my card to another person to use?

A. No. This practice is strongly discouraged. Please remember that the system creates a record of any time your card use is attempted on any door on the card access system. You may have authorization that the person you are lending the card to does not.

Q. I lost my card. What do I do?

A. First, it is important to notify your supervisor and the Security Program Office. Your card will be immediately deactivated. A duplicate card will then be issued. It may take up to one week to issue a new card. Additionally, you may be liable for the replacement costs.

Q. My card does not work, what do I do?

A. First check and make sure you are not outside of your authorized time or that you are attempting to go through a door you are not authorized to do so.
Next, check to make sure the card beeps when presented to the card reader. If it does not beep, then most likely the card is defective and needs to be replaced.

Contact the Security office at 828-6974.

Q. What do I do with an old card?

A. All cards are to be sent back to the Security office at 128 State Street, Montpelier, VT 05633-2101. This includes non-working cards, cards of those who left state service, if you transfer to another Department and a new card is issued, and any lost cards that are found after a replacement card has been issued.