What Is a Fake ID?Ī false or fake ID is any form of identification that is forged, altered, or otherwise purports to establish the false identity of a person. All states have fake ID laws, though how the crime is categorized and punished, differs from state to state. With the widespread use of photo editing software and high-quality printing, creating a fake ID is easier today than it ever has been.īut it's also a crime that states have been punishing in an increasingly severe manner, with many states punishing people with fake IDs as felons. Having the proper identification allows you any number of privileges, from obtaining alcohol to cashing a check and renting an apartment.
False identification documents, or fake IDs, have been around as long as the real thing.