This paper proposes a novel approach to both registration and recognition of face in three dimensions. The presented method is based on normal map metric to perform either the alignment of captured face to a reference template or the comparison between any two faces in a gallery. As the metric involved is highly suited to be computed via vector processor, we propose an implementation of the whole framework on last generation graphics boards, to exploit the potential of GPUs applied to large scale biometric identification applications. This work shows how the use of affordable consumer grade hardware could allow ultra rapid comparison between face descriptors through their highly specialized architecture. The approach also addresses facial expression changes by means of a subject specific weighting masks. We include preliminary results of experiments conducted on a proprietary gallery and on a subset of FRGC database.