*We Do Not Condone or Promote The Use of Fake IDs for Illegal Purposes. This site is for informational purposes only, and we highly recommend you DO NOT USE Fake IDs. This is not legal advice; this is just the information we found online.
California fake id laws are pretty strict regarding having and using fake identification. Possessing a fake ID and using someone else’s identity information (including name, date of birth, and driver’s license number) to obtain goods or services is illegal. The penalties for having and using a fake ID will depend on the circumstances of the offense; however, generally, they can include fines, jail time, and probation.
Using false or fraudulent documents to access clubs or bars in California is also illegal. Doing so carries a penalty of up to six months in jail and a fine of up to $1,000. Also, the business or establishment where you’re trying to use a false ID may face fines and other penalties.
Whatever type of false identification you use or try to obtain, it can have serious consequences.
What is a California Fake ID?
The meaning of a fake ID in California is outlined in Penal Code 470a PC. It refers to an identification card issued by the government that has been:
- Altered
- Falsified
- Forged
- Duplicated
- Reproduced, or
- Counterfeited.
A fake ID can be either a driver’s license or a different type of ID issued by the government, like a:
- Military ID
- Passport
- Social Security card, or
- Government employee ID (state or federal).
According to 470b PC, possessing a fake ID will only lead to charges if it is either issued by the government or made to resemble a government-issued ID. This implies that using a private company or school ID would not be considered a violation of 470b.
Check out our guide to the best websites for fake ids.
Under what circumstances could possessing a false identification lead to criminal charges under 470b?
A fake ID refers to a government-issued card that has been altered, counterfeited, distorted, or changed. Therefore, an ID can be labeled as a “fake ID” if:
- The government-issued ID has been tampered with and now contains incorrect information.
- ID cards not created by government employees have been copied, recreated, or reproduced.
- A new ID card that imitates a government-issued ID has been created entirely from scratch.
Creating or altering a real ID to deceive others is against the law and can be classified as a fake ID.
You need to be in possession of the fake ID.
To be accused of possessing a fake ID, you need to physically hold it, display it, or have some form of control over it. Possession can be categorized into two types – actual and constructive. Actual possession means having the fake ID on your person, such as in your hands, pockets, backpack, or wallet.
Constructive possession means you can be considered in control of a fake ID even if it is not currently in your immediate possession. This can include situations such as being in your car, a drawer in your home, or a table in your garage or shed, where you can easily retrieve it.
You Must Know the ID is a Fake
Possessing a fake or falsified ID alone may not lead to criminal charges under 470b PC. It is essential to know whether the ID is fraudulent.
If you were unaware that your ID was fake or tampered with, it could serve as a defense against criminal charges. Believing that your ID is genuine provides complete protection against any liability.
To commit a forgery using a fake ID, you must intend to use it in such a manner.
To commit forgery, you must possess a fake ID and intend to use it. In other words, you must want to use the ID for:
- Mislead another person.
- The act of committing forgery involves intending to cause loss or damage to someone’s legal, financial, or property right, regardless of whether you succeed.
Here are some actions considered violations of California’s fake ID law.
Illustrative examples can help to distinguish between legal and illegal conduct.
Example: Kevin, who is 19, intended to use a fake ID with his photo to buy beer at a liquor store. He had altered his older brother Chris’s ID to make it look like his own. But he was stopped by the police before he could make the purchase. Possessing a fake ID intending to use it for deception, even if the person has not yet used it, violates Penal Code 470b PC.
Example: Lisa received a check in the mail that was addressed to the previous tenant. Instead of returning it, she asked a friend to make a fake ID in the former tenant’s name to cash the check. She now possesses a fraudulent ID and intends to use it to deceive someone, which is illegal.
PENALTIES FOR CALIFORNIA’S FAKE ID LAW VIOLATIONS?
Possessing a fake ID in California can be either a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on various factors. These factors can include your criminal history and the kind of forgery that you planned to carry out.
Possession of a fake ID is a misdemeanor offense, with a maximum punishment imposed.
- One year in jail
- Community service
- probation
- $1,000 in fines.
Possession of a fake ID is considered a felony, and the maximum punishment for it is:
- Three years in a state prison
- Community service
- Formal probation, and
- $10,000 in fines.
Your driving privileges could be negatively affected if caught with a fake ID in California. The state may take away your license for a maximum of 12 months, or if you are not yet of legal driving age, you may have to delay applying for an additional year.
What To Do If You Are Charged With a Fake ID Charge?
Being accused of having a fake ID or facing criminal charges does not necessarily mean your future is ruined. It’s important to remember that the law states you are innocent until proven guilty, and the burden of proof lies with the government to provide evidence of your guilt. Prosecutors must present a solid argument to convince a jury beyond a reasonable doubt of their guilt, which is a difficult task.
Conclusion
Fake IDs are serious offenses that come with hefty penalties. It’s essential to understand the risks and laws around them so you can make an informed decision about whether or not having an ID is worth it. Even if you don’t face criminal charges, being caught in possession of a fake ID could still result in your license being suspended for up to a year. Ultimately, it’s best to obey the law and avoid fake IDs altogether.
Disclaimer: We are firmly against the illegal use of Fake IDs and do not condone or promote them in any way. Fake IDs offered online are designed solely for recreational or entertainment purposes. Using an ID that isn’t yours is Illegal. Under no circumstances should you ever resort to using a counterfeit ID for any unlawful activities.
Before making or purchasing one, be sure you are well-informed of the repercussions in case it is utilized improperly. This content was created solely for informational purposes, and we are not accountable for any decisions made to acquire a fraudulent identification card. If you purchase from one of the vendors listed below, we may receive a commission as compensation.