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Fake IDs

The use of a fake ID is a serious offense. If caught, the minor would face legal consequences. In Missouri, anyone younger than 21 years of age who uses a reproduced modified or altered license to obtain alcohol can be charged with a misdemeanor.

You have now reviewed the most common kinds of valid IDs. Now you need to determine if the ID you are given by the guest is a fake. In this section you will learn how to spot a fake ID. It is very important that you examine each ID carefully. As it was already mentioned, you should touch the ID. If it's in a wallet, it should be taken out and given to you. This is because some fake IDs are easy to spot while others are very difficult. You should make a mental checklist of the common fake characteristics on a person's ID. Then, for each ID you see, use the following checklist:

1. Check the expiration date. Look for damage
2. Look for peeling edges
3. Use your fingers to check for anything glued to the surface
4. Check for a barcode on the back of it, if it’s a Missouri license
5. Look for a hole punched in it. If it has a hole, it’s no longer valid.
6. See if the picture and the person who gave it to you match
7. Check the height and weight and compare these to the person who gave it to you.
8. Look on the back if ‘for novelty purposes only’ is printed, or if there is a fake seal with the words ‘authentic’, ‘genuine’, ‘valid’ or ‘secure’ on it
9. Check the license for a pattern across the surface showing the outline of the state of Missouri
10. Using a UV light, see if the words ‘SHOW ME’ are printed across it
11. Check the ID for missing information
12. Does the name on the license match the signature, or is the signature in another color other than black?

Other details that can indicate a fake ID are:

1. A hologram with the wording secure or genuine
2. A hologram of padlocks
3. The phrase “for novelty purposes only”
4. If there is a skeleton key hologram on it
5. If the photo on the ID is blurry

For some practice at spotting fake IDs, take a look at these examples.

Some fake IDs are difficult to detect and some minors are good liars. You can request a second or third form of ID. You could also ask questions about the ID, including social security number or birthday. Don’t pause when asking questions, and ask different questions of different people in a group. If you’re not 100% sure that this person is using their valid ID, refuse the service. Also, a black light or pen light with UV capability can be helpful if you’re in a dim location. Also, a magnifying glass can help at times. If possible, keep an ID checking guide handy.