I have a MacBook Pro which I use 99% of the time in a closed configuration. This means that the apps which look for my fingerprint require me to type in the passwords.
Is there a way to purchase an external, USB fingerprint reader that I could plug into an external port to trigger the passwords?
MacBook Air 13″, macOS 10.14
I'm afraid you're relegated to using the keyboard for unlocking the MacBook since you can not use Touch ID when the MacBook is used in closed-display mode. The are no external fingerprint readers to do what you're looking to do.
You may want to simply disable Touch ID so the prompt to use it isn't constantly brought up.
No.
Wow! That was a fast No.
Welcome, Mary Sharon Cohen, to Apple Support Communities!
Only the new iMacs are known to have the ability to have an external Touch ID sensor.
(I wish I could use such a keyboard on my Mac minis, even if only on my M1 Mac mini.)
How to use touch ID when MacBook is closed
