Methods for detecting the Fake or Real Driving License

Security is becoming a more significant aspect of our lives, and proper identification is required in many places. When we think of "fake IDs," we immediately think of college students who use phony driver's licenses to obtain entrance to bars. However, we must become increasingly concerned with identifying people in business, work, and public transit. Knowing how to identify specific components of fake identification cards or driving licenses can be helpful if you are in a position of power or security.

Spotting Security Features of ID Cards

1. Check for a clear-quality photo. 

The photo should be well-lit and not grainy, and you should see the person's face accurately. Make sure the person in the photo matches the person in front of you. This may sound apparent, but many people who use fake IDs believe that the person who checks them will be too preoccupied to look at the photo closely.

2. Check the printed details.

Using another person's expired ID card or license is one false ID tactic. Make sure the card isn't past its expiration date. Examine the type to ensure that it is consistent and has not been tampered with.

3. Become familiar with various license formats.

In many states, driver's licenses for minors are formatted vertically, while those for people over 21 are horizontal.

3. Become familiar with various license formats. 

In many states, driver's licenses for minors are formatted vertically, while those for people over 21 are horizontal.

Look for microprint. Microprint is a type style that is so small that it appears as a straight line to the naked eye. It is only visible with a unique magnifier. Currently, 48 states use microprint as a security feature.

5 Check the plastic laminate for signs of splitting. 

A fake ID is likely to be of poor quality plastic, may show tampering or “splitting,” and is expected to bend or fold more quickly than a genuine one.

6. Look for the holographic image. 

State-issued driver's licenses carry an image that flashes in the light. Fake licenses may attempt to replicate this by printing a dim image in the background with a bright color.

METHOD 2:

Using Technology to Spot Fake Documents

1. Invest in a 10x magnifier.  

                      

                        Verify the microprint on most current IDs or licenses by a 10x magnifier for quick and relatively easy verification. The microprint that appears to the naked eye as a solid line will appear as text under a magnifier.

2. Use ultra-violet light. 

               

                        Most states’ current driver’s licenses use unique print or images that only appear under ultra-violet light.

3. Invest in an ID scanner. 

                        For a relatively low cost, compared to getting caught serving alcohol to minors, for example, it is possible to purchase a scanner that will read a variety of IDs or licenses and verify validity. These are often hand-held devices that use to verify authenticity.

4. Get a smartphone app.

                        There are even some available smartphone apps that will scan bar codes on IDs to verify authenticity. Many of these are free and will turn an iPhone or iPad into a helpful scanner.

METHOD 3:

Getting Training for Security Staff

                    

1. Use published reference materials. 

                                    The Driver’s License Guide Company has published an I.D. Checking Guide with the most current information about licenses in the U.S. and Canada.

2. Use state-published references. 

                                        Many states publish helpful information about authenticating their driver’s licenses. Become familiar with the states closest to you.

3. Participate in training.

                         Search for organizations that will offer training in your area or online about identifying security features of driver's licenses and other I.D. cards. For example, there are private security companies that offer such classes. Alternatively, you may be able to reach out to a local sheriff's office, district attorney, or other state agency.

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