A vehicle occupant identification system includes a detection system configured to detect that an individual is proximate a vehicle. The detection system is configured to detect the proximity of an individual by detecting at least one of a door unlock, a key fob, a door opening, a door closing, a seated passenger, and an individual proximate the vehicle. A controller is operably coupled with the detection system and is configured to activate an identification system. The identification system includes an imager configured to illuminate an eye of an occupant of the vehicle and capture at least one image of an iris and a pupil of the eye. A processor is configured to compare the at least one image of the iris of the eye of the occupant with previously stored iris information to identify the occupant and activate the vehicle.