The Ultimate Guide to Identifying Fake IDs
When selling age-restricted products like tobacco and alcohol, the first step is always to check identification. Regardless of the role—cashier, bartender, vape store clerk, or wait staff—asking for an ID should be part of the daily routine. Failing to do so can lead to fines and even jail time.
The second step is to ensure the ID is authentic. In all 50 states, it’s illegal for anyone underage to purchase alcohol or tobacco, and it’s also illegal to use or create a fake ID.
When checking IDs, there are two key scenarios to watch for:
A customer using a fake ID
A customer using someone else’s real ID
In this blog, the key strategies for spotting a fake ID will be covered. Whether a business owner or an employee, these strategies can be implemented today to ensure compliance.
When Should Staff be Trained to Check for Fake IDs?
Staff should be trained immediately—and regularly. This skill is especially important if the business is located in a university town, tourist destination, or an area with active nightlife.
As states create more complex IDs with special features, counterfeiters are getting better too. States like Pennsylvania, Connecticut, Illinois, Florida, Texas, California, Hawaii, and Georgia are common sources for fake IDs. And it's all too easy to buy a realistic fake online.
Is the Business or the Seller Liable for Selling to Underage Customers?
Ultimately, it’s the seller’s responsibility to spot fake IDs. For example, in Georgia, sellers can be held accountable if they sell to someone underage with an obviously fake ID. Sellers must also know the legal actions they can take when a fake ID is identified, as laws vary from state to state.
Though business owners aren’t usually held liable for employees accepting fake IDs, repeated offenses can hurt the business. Proper staff training and strategies for identifying fake IDs are crucial. Here's a look at some recent headlines that show the impact on businesses:
5 Arrested in Columbus, Georgia for Selling Alcohol to Minors
10 Charged in Monroe, Georgia for Selling Tobacco and Vapes to Minors
4 Employees Cited in Dunwoody, Georgia for Selling Alcohol to Minors
6 Employees Cited in Dunlap, Tennessee for Selling Vape Products to Minors
To avoid being in the headlines, businesses should implement the following strategies for identifying fake IDs and maintaining compliance.
Identifying Fake or Invalid IDs
Pennsylvania’s Liquor Control Board teaches the “F.E.A.R. Method.”
Feel: Feel for imperfections or thick areas on the card.
Examine: Examine the card’s images and design.
Ask: Ask the customer to repeat information on the card.
Return: Return the card if it seems authentic.
Let’s dive deeper into specific things to look for when applying the F.E.A.R. method.
Showing the ID in a Wallet
If a customer presents an ID within a wallet, ask to handle the card outside of the wallet to inspect it properly. If the customer refuses, it’s likely a fake ID.
Body Language + Questions
Fake ID users often show nervous body language or act suspicious. To test, ask simple questions like:
What is your horoscope or star sign?
What is your middle name?
What’s your address?
What’s your height?
Do you have another form of ID like a credit or debit card?
If the customer can’t answer or provide another form of ID, it’s up to the employee to decide if service should be refused.
Tape Overs
In university towns, minors often use clear tape to alter their birthdate. Check for tape or glue with your fingernail.
Signatures Too Perfect
A signature that looks too perfect may indicate a fake ID. Authentic signatures are usually imperfect. If the signature looks like it was typed, take extra steps to verify the ID.
Poor Printing or Lamination
Fake IDs often have poorly formatted text or blurry printing on the back. Check the edges of the ID for separation or glue buildup.
Microprint
Many IDs have microprint that can only be seen with magnification. If a magnifying glass is available, check to see if it’s legible.
Images
Run a fingernail over the image to check for irregularities or a taped-over image. Look for a ghost image—a smaller, black-and-white duplicate of the main image that confirms authenticity.
Holograms
Most U.S. IDs have holographic watermarks that can be seen when held up to light. If the watermark is missing, it’s likely a fake ID.
Laser Embossing
Laser-embossed letters or icons are common on authentic IDs. They can be felt when handling the card, providing another clue.
Compare with an Authentic ID
While comparing a customer’s ID with an authentic one can help, remember that ID designs change frequently. An ID that looks different from the one known might still be valid.
Technologies for Spotting Fake IDs
Several tools can help businesses verify IDs. Most of these methods are affordable and can lower liability and insurance costs.
UV Light Inspection
Some IDs have designs visible only under UV light. A UV flashlight (usually $20–$50) can help spot them. Use this method alongside other visual checks for better accuracy.
Scanners
Some apps scan IDs and verify their legitimacy. Though useful, they may not always be accurate, as some high-quality fake IDs can still pass the scan. Plus, scanning IDs may discourage some customers.
Multispectral Imaging
Multispectral imaging software scans and verifies IDs while comparing them to state-specific requirements. While this method is the most expensive, it’s highly effective.
Next Steps for Business Owners
Age-restricted products are often targeted by undercover law enforcement, leading to hefty fines for businesses and employees. Stinger Compliance is here to help.
Stinger Compliance helps businesses increase confidence in their compliance by conducting scheduled stings. Secret shoppers, who are of legal age, order tobacco or alcohol products and report on compliance. This provides business owners with actionable insights and keeps communities safe.
Why Choose Stinger Compliance?
Zero risk to business owners or employees
Quick reporting of results
Secret shoppers of legal age
Easy online scheduling and payment
Customized surveys
No contracts
Stinger Compliance conducts mock stings to give your staff the practice they need to spot fake IDs before they slip through. Our anonymous inspections help ensure your team is prepared and your business stays compliant. Stay ahead of counterfeit IDs and safeguard your operations. Visit stingercompliance.com to learn more.
Sources:
