Key Takeaways
- Borrowed IDs are the most common type of fake ID
- Check physical features: edges, surface, thickness, holograms
- Ask questions the real ID holder would know instantly
- Never confiscate IDs - only law enforcement can do that
- You can refuse service if you have reasonable doubt
Last updated: January 2026
2.2 Recognizing Fake IDs
Fake IDs are increasingly sophisticated, but trained servers can spot most of them. Knowing what to look for is essential.
Types of Fake IDs
1. Borrowed IDs (Most Common)
- A real ID belonging to someone else (older sibling, friend)
- Look real because they ARE real
- Customer hopes they look similar enough
2. Altered IDs
- Real ID with changed information (birthdate)
- May have scratches, raised edges, or different texture
- Information may not align properly
3. Manufactured Fakes
- Completely counterfeit documents
- Quality varies widely
- May lack security features
Red Flags to Watch For
Physical Signs:
| What to Check | Red Flags |
|---|---|
| Edges | Peeling, rough, thick laminate |
| Surface | Bumpy, uneven, scratched over birthdate |
| Thickness | Too thick, layered feel |
| Holograms | Missing, wrong position, don't shift properly |
| Photo | Poorly aligned, different background, blurry |
Information Signs:
| What to Check | Red Flags |
|---|---|
| Font | Inconsistent, different sizes |
| Birthdate format | Doesn't match state format |
| Signature | Printed vs. signed, doesn't match writing style |
| Height/Weight | Doesn't match the person |
| Physical description | Eye color, hair color obviously wrong |
Behavioral Signs
The customer may:
- Be extremely nervous
- Avoid eye contact
- Provide information slowly (memorized vs. known)
- Have friends hovering nearby
- Immediately know which credit card to use (rehearsed)
- Give wrong information when asked about their ID
Questions to Ask
Ask simple questions the real ID holder would know instantly:
- "What's your zodiac sign?" (calculate from birthdate)
- "What's your address?"
- "What year did you graduate high school?"
- "What's your middle name?"
Tip: If someone has to think about information that should be automatic, the ID may not be theirs.
What to Do If You Suspect a Fake
- Remain calm - Don't accuse directly
- Ask questions - Give them a chance to prove it's real
- Call a manager - If still unsure
- Politely refuse service - "I'm sorry, I can't accept this ID"
- Do NOT confiscate - In most states, only law enforcement can confiscate IDs
- Document the incident - Note date, time, description
Important: You are NOT required to serve someone if you have reasonable doubt about their ID, even if you can't prove it's fake.
Test Your Knowledge
What is the MOST common type of fake ID?
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Test Your Knowledge
What should you do if you suspect an ID is fake?
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Test Your Knowledge
Which physical feature is a red flag for a fake ID?
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