TABC Server Alcohol Training

8 ways to spot a fake Texas ID

How can you tell if a Texas ID is fake?

You’re no McLovin. You’d never use a fake ID! These can get people in a lot of trouble, yet they’re everywhere. If you’re a server or bartender, then you must know how to spot a fake ID. Otherwise, you might get some jail time. We’ve identified eight ways to spot a fake ID in the state of Texas below.

1. Raised surfaces

Run your fingers through the top of the ID. If you feel any raised surfaces over the text or photo, then this is a red flag that it’s a fake. The laminate on the real ID will be completely smooth and flat to the touch. Raised surfaces can mean that new text or graphics was placed on top of the original.

2. Magnetic strips

On the back of the ID, there should be a magnetic strip. Of course, it’s easy to replicate the look of a black magnetic strip. But you can scan this through the register to see if any information on the front of the card does not match what you see on the screen when you scan it.

3. Ultraviolet ink

Real IDs have ultraviolet ink that you can see by holding the license at an angle under a light. It’s shiny, and Texas IDs have the word “Texas” written in ultraviolet ink under the laminate.

4. Microprint

This is what a lot of bouncers rely on to see if an ID is fake. Microprint is just what it sounds like – very small printed text. It’s typically scattered throughout the card. But in Texas, it can be found around the flag and state seal. Fake IDs typically show fine lines instead of printed text.

5. Misspellings and grammar

Look carefully for spelling and grammar mistakes that can appear in the city, state or date-of-birth. Also be on the lookout for blurred text.

6. Compare IDs

If you’re not sure whether or not someone has given you a fake ID, then you can compare it with an ID in the same state.

7. Body language

Even the best of fake IDs can’t hide a person’s anxiety. Watch the customer’s face and body language as you examine their ID. A big way to tell if a person is nervous is the lack of eye contact… maybe even a little bit of rocking back and forth… and a shaking, jittery knee.

8. Picture to person

A lot of underage people will use their older sibling’s IDs to purchase alcohol. They might’ve been told that they look so much like their siblings that they don’t even think twice when they’re using it. After all, the ID itself isn’t a fake one. So, you’ll have to really compare the picture to the person.

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