How to spot a fake id? newest 10 tips (update 2024)

Spotting a fake ID can be tricky, but here are several effective methods that can help identify one:

1. Check the Fake ID Hologram

• Real IDs: Use complex holograms that display symbols, emblems, or state seals and shift colors or images at different angles.
• Fake Identity: Often have holograms that are low quality, faded, or just printed images that don’t change with light.

2. Feel the Fake ID's Texture and Thickness

• Real IDs: Have a specific thickness and rigidity, with high-quality laminate layers that protect against damage.
• Fake identity: Often feel flimsy, unusually thick or thin, and may not have protective layers.

3. Scan Fake IDs the Barcode and Magnetic Stripe

• Real IDs: Scanning the barcode should display information consistent with the details on the front of the card, like name, date of birth, and ID number.
• Fake identity: Often have barcodes that either don’t scan or return incorrect information.

4. Inspect Fake IDs UV Features Under a Blacklight

• Real IDs: Include ultraviolet (UV) features like state seals, symbols, or images that appear only under blacklight.
• Fake identity: Often lack UV images, or the images appear blurry or faded.

5. Check Fake IDs for Microprinting

• Real IDs: Often use microprinting (tiny text only readable with a magnifying glass) as a security measure.
• Fake identity: Usually skip this feature, or the text appears blurry and unreadable under magnification.

6. Look for ake IDs Laser Perforations and Raised Text

• Real IDs: May have laser-cut perforations forming a shape (like a state symbol) or raised text that you can feel.
• Fake  identity: Often lack perforations or have poorly cut designs that don’t match real state patterns.

7. Examine Fake ID Fonts and Spacing

• Real IDs: Follow exact font styles and spacing, which are consistent and clear.
• Fake identity: Often have slightly off fonts, incorrect spacing, or alignment issues.

8. Fake ID Compare with a Known Genuine ID

• Real IDs: Will match in layout, color scheme, and symbol placement with genuine IDs from the same state.
• Fake identity: Typically have small variations in color, symbol size, or layout, which can be easily spotted in side-by-side comparison.

9. Check Expiration and Issue Dates

• Real IDs: Typically follow logical issue and expiration dates. For instance, IDs generally aren’t issued to those under 16 or have unrealistic expiration dates far in the future.
• Fake identity: May use random dates that don’t make sense or are implausible for the cardholder’s age.

10. Seek Expert Verification if Unsure

• Professional scanners or ID verification apps can help scan and detect fake features instantly.