What does the law say about fake IDs?

 Posted on May 16, 2017 in Criminal Defense

Fake IDs are something that you hear a lot about in high schools and even colleges. Most often they are used to obtain alcohol by underage individuals in Illinois. If you are thinking about getting one or helping someone else get one, there are some important things you need to know about the law and what it says about fake IDs.

According to the Illinois Liquor Control Commission, any state ID or driver’s license that is not obtained through the correct means from a proper government agency is illegal. Just having a fake ID in your possession is against the law, even if you do not attempt to use it. Making them, of course, is also a serious crime. Punishment can range from losing your driver’s license privileges to prison time. You can be charged with either a misdemeanor or a felony.

Misdemeanor charges may be rendered against you the first time you are caught trying to use an ID that is not yours. You may also be charged for trying to alter an ID or trying to get an ID using fake documents. If you are caught doing any of these things a second time, your charge would be raised to a felony. You may also be charged with a felony for having a fake ID, meaning it was not issued by a state authority. If you are found to be making or advertising fraudulent IDs, this is also considered a felony. This is general information only and is not intended to provide legal advice.