Biometric user authenticating keys for vehicles and methods of use

A method, comprising:

• obtaining biometric information or a digital signature of a user from a biometric reader;
• authenticating an identity of the user based on the biometric information or the digital signature;
• selecting a mode of operation for a vehicle based on the biometric information, the mode of operation specifying vehicle privileges for the user;
• and
• transmitting a signal to a vehicle controller of the vehicle to request access to the vehicle or start an engine of the vehicle after the identity of the user has been authenticated.

A vehicle controller, comprising:

• a processor;
• and
• a memory for storing executable instructions for identify management, the processor executing the instructions to:
• place a vehicle in a security mode of operation that prevents access to the vehicle or start of an engine of the vehicle;
• provide a first challenge to a physical key used to operate the vehicle;
• receive biometric information of a user in response to the first challenge;
• authenticate a user based on the biometric information;
• and
• place the vehicle into a different mode of operation when the user is authenticated, the different mode of operation allowing access to the vehicle or starting of the engine of the vehicle.