An information based access control system for sea port terminals having security checkpoints. A database is associated with the processor, either locally on site, or at a central location where it is accessible from a plurality of sea ports. The checkpoints can include a smart card reader, biometric device, optical scanner, and a magnetic stripe reader. A registration module in communication with the central processor is used to issue credentials for a person requiring access and also to store identifier data for the person in the database. The registration nodule includes a camera for capturing a digital image of the person, a means for inputting alphanumeric data, a means to retrieve coded electronic data from identification documents, and a means for obtaining a biometric reference from the person. The information forms unique identifier data for the person which is stored in the database.