The methods and apparatus for repetitive iris recognition include an apparatus for repetitively imaging an iris. The apparatus comprises a housing defining a substantially planar outer surface, a first axis normal to the substantially planar outer surface, and a curved outer surface, opposite the substantially planar outer surface, defined by a curve rotated about the first axis. The apparatus further comprises an infrared sensor array, disposed within the housing, to acquire an infrared image of an iris via at least one first aperture in the substantially planar outer surface. The apparatus further comprises at least one infrared illuminator, disposed within the housing, to illuminate the iris during acquisition of the infrared image of the iris via at least one second aperture in the substantially planar outer surface.