Fake ID Arrests

What is a Fake ID?

A false ID is any form of identification that has been falsified, altered, or forged to establish a false identity. These may include passports, driver’s licenses, and state identification cards. Legal IDs must be government or military issued and not expired or altered in any form. It also may result in a false ID charge to use a valid ID that doesn’t belong to the defendant. This can include borrowing a friend’s ID, or using ID belonging to an older sibling, cousin, or parent.

Virginia Fake ID Laws

In Virginia, it is considered a Class 1 misdemeanor to possess, use, or distribute false forms of ID, under Virginia Code 18.2-204.1, 204.2. It is also a Class 1 misdemeanor to purchase alcohol using a fake ID. Fraudulent ID charges can be issued for altering or using another person’s identification, and cover many forms of identification.

These forms include:

It is also illegal to loan or borrow someone else’s ID. Minors who use another person’s ID may also be charged with other charges, depending on what the ID was used for. These additional charges can include fraud, underage DUI, or identity theft.

Penalties for False ID Convictions in Virginia

The state of Virginia is notoriously strict, even for juvenile offenders. The penalties for using, possessing, or distributing fake IDs are serious, and can affect your child’s future. An experienced criminal defense attorney can help your child fight the charges, or may be able to negotiate a lighter sentence for your child. Penalties can include jail time, fines, community service, and driver’s license suspension. Possible penalties are listed below.

For possessing, using, or distributing false forms of ID:

Up to 12 months in jail

Up to $2,500 in fines

For using a fake ID to purchase alcohol:

1 year in jail

At least $500 in fines

Revocation of driver’s license for up to 12 months

At least 50 hours of community service