An authentication system for managing access to an access-restricted system is provided. The system includes a user interface panel for receiving a request for access rights from a user. A processing device is also provided for assigning the access rights to the user and storing them in a database. An ink deposition station coupled to the processing device is operable to print access credentials on an authentication object in accordance with the access rights assigned to the user. The user may then gain access to at least a portion of the access-restricted system by interfacing with a credentials reader. The reader scans the access credentials from the authentication object and transmits the credentials to the processing device, which grants access to the access-restricted system upon authentication of the access credentials.