Fake ID use is surging across the United States—and it’s not just a college town issue. From convenience stores and bars to cannabis dispensaries, universities, and casinos, fake IDs are putting businesses at risk of fines, legal action, and loss of license.

While some think this is a local issue, the data tells a different story. Fake ID activity is a nationwide problem, with hotspots stretching across the Northeast, West Coast, and the South.

Top 10 U.S. States for Fake ID Activity - based on Minor Decliner Data 

1.      Pennsylvania

2.      New Jersey

3.      Connecticut

4.      New York

5.      California

6.       Maryland

7.      Massachusetts

8.      Florida

9.      Virginia

10.   Illinois

This widespread pattern shows that no region is immune, and every business dealing in age-restricted goods or services needs to take fake ID detection seriously.

Why Fake ID Detection Matters for Your Business

1. Legal Compliance:
Selling age-restricted products like alcohol, cannabis, tobacco, or lottery tickets to a minor—even with a fake ID—can result in significant penalties and license suspension.

2. Financial Risk:
A single violation can cost thousands in fines, trigger insurance hikes, and lead to temporary closures.

3. Reputational Damage:
News of underage incidents can damage your brand and trust with customers, especially in highly regulated industries.

The Challenge: Fake IDs Are Getting Smarter

Modern counterfeit IDs often:
- Scan as valid
- Include state-specific holograms
- Have scannable barcodes and magnetic stripes
- Fool both staff and standard barcode readers

States at the top of the fake ID list, like Pennsylvania and California, report frequent use of out-of-state IDs that look authentic even under scrutiny.

The Solution: Automated Fake ID Scanners with Intellicheck Technology

Businesses must move beyond visual inspections and outdated hardware. The best solution is to adopt AI-powered ID verification systems that read embedded security elements, validate ID structure, and log every scan for audit protection.

Minor Decliner ID scanners, powered by Intellicheck, offer:
- 90%+ fake ID detection accuracy
- Real-time verification in under 3 seconds
- Full compliance logs
- Easy, standalone operation
- Seamless integration for bars, retailers, dispensaries, and universities

These systems are cost-effective, fast, and frictionless, ensuring you’re protected without slowing down business operations.

Final Thoughts

Fake IDs aren’t just a teenage trick—they’re a serious threat to your business’s future. The top 10 states for fake ID activity make it clear this is a coast-to-coast issue.

Protect your license. Protect your reputation. Detect fake IDs automatically.
Don’t leave your business exposed—implement robust fake ID detection today.