Many young people consider obtaining a fake ID to be a harmless rite of passage, allowing them to simply purchase alcohol, buy cigarettes, or enter certain businesses. However, possession of forged documentation is a crime and may get you arrested even if you never attempt to use it. In an attempt to crack down on fraudulent IDs, most states have enacted progressively tougher criminal law penalties, especially if you have commercially produced documents.

Understanding the Penalties for Fake ID Possession

What Is a Fake ID?

Every state makes it illegal to create counterfeit government-issued IDs, no matter the purpose for which it’s intended. Minors often use these documents to buy cigarettes or alcohol, but they’re a common feature of scams to defraud government agencies. Using someone else’s ID as your own is also illegal, even if it was given willingly.

What Are the Penalties for Possession?

The penalties for carrying a false ID vary widely from state to state, but they’re almost always serious. For instance, Missouri criminal law allows those accused of identification fraud to be charged with a class A misdemeanor, punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a $2,000 fine. Some prosecutors in Missouri will charge you with a class D felony, carrying prison terms of up to seven years, if you have a commercially produced identification card and use it.   

Being convicted of actually using a false ID may result in additional charges and more serious penalties. For instance, minors attempting to purchase cigarettes or alcohol is a separate offense, potentially resulting in even higher fines and longer jail sentences.

If you’ve been accused of carrying false identification, turn to a criminal law professional with decades of experience and an in-depth understanding of the system. The Law Office of Mike Hamilton has served defendants throughout the Columbia area for over 30 years, delivering exceptional results for clients facing a broad array of charges. Visit their website for an overview of their criminal law services or call (573) 825-5698 to schedule your initial consultation.

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