Using a Blacklight to Help Spot Fake IDs

Red pair of glasses

Look for Holograms

State identification have a holographic covering that usually features the state’s seal or a similar symbol. Low-quality fake IDs do not have the covering and shining a black light on the card will show nothing and reveal it as a fake.

Magnifying Glass

Study the Hologram

Many fake holographic coverings are blurry or feature an image that is not the state’s seal.

Flashlight

Look for Evidence of Tampering

Black lights often highlight where the individual tampered with the ID, and they always reveal any chalking or other technique that removed the original name or birth date from the ID. Black lights can reveal additional glue or other marks resulting from a seal that the individual removed or replaced.

Warning Sign with Exclamation Point

Warning!

High-quality Internet fakes will look entirely legitimate under a black light. Default to the “Art of the Interview” since they may also pass the scanners.