As a college student or a young adult, having a fake ID has become somewhat of a norm. However, laws against it and the consequent charges have become stricter with time. Virginia is no different in this regard, and the state has some particularly harsh laws when it comes to possessing or using fake IDs.

If you are caught violating the Virginia laws on fake IDs, you may face criminal charges, monetary fines, and a criminal record that can haunt you for years to come. Therefore, before you get your hands on any fake IDs or use them carelessly, it is essential to understand the charges you may face, and the penalties that follow.

What is a Fake ID?

In Virginia, a fake ID is any identification document that bears information about the holder, which is not genuine. While the most common case is typically when an underage person tries to get alcohol or cigarettes, it could also be used to gain entry into nightclubs or enable you to access other age-restricted offerings.

The Individuals who use fake IDs to purchase or drink alcohol, to get into clubs, or for any other purpose are committing a felony that comes with serious legal consequences.

Virginia’s Fake ID Laws

In Virginia, it is illegal to purchase, possess, manufacture, or distribute a fake ID. All these acts are considered criminal offenses in the state, and anyone caught violating these laws may face significant legal penalties.

A conversation with a local law enforcement officer revealed that many misdemeanors in Virginia are punishable by up to a year in prison and a fine of as much as $2,500. Although possessing or using a fake ID may seem like a minor crime, it could set you back quite a bit in Virginia.

If you are caught with a fake ID in Virginia, here are the charges and penalties you may face:

Possessing a Fake ID

Possessing a fake ID document in Virginia is a Class 1 misdemeanor that may result in up to 12 months in jail, a fine of up to $2,500, or both.

If the prosecutor can prove that you intended to use the fake document to commit another fraudulent act, such as fraudulently buying cigarettes or alcohol, they could charge you with a Class 6 felony indictment. This crime could result in up to five years in state prison, a fine of up to $2,500, or both.

Selling a Fake ID

Selling a fake ID in Virginia is a Class 6 felony, which comes with consequences that include:

– Up to five years in jail

– A fine of up to $2,500, or both

If the prosecutor can prove aggravating circumstances surrounding the fake ID, the penalties may increase.

Furthermore, if the fake ID was sold to someone under 21, the person who sold it could be subject to enhanced legal penalties, with a chance of getting up to 10 years in prison.

Using a Fake ID

The consequences for using a fake ID in Virginia range from fines, jail time, and subsequent revocation of driving privileges. Below are different scenarios that can result in criminal charges:

1. Underage drinking: Individuals under the age of 21 using false identification to buy alcohol or possessing an empty container of an alcoholic beverage are subject to:

– A fine of up to $500

– 50 hours of community service

– A suspension of their driver’s license for at least six months

– A possible referral to an alcohol safety action program

2. Misrepresentation of age to purchase cigarettes: The penalties for misrepresenting age to purchase cigarettes are almost the same as the penalties for underage possession or purchase of alcohol.

3. Use of Fake ID to Commit Another Crime: If you use the fake ID to commit another crime such as theft, the prosecutor may add a felony conviction for the initial offense.

Final Thoughts

In Virginia, possession, selling or distributing a fake ID is a serious crime that could come with life-altering legal consequences. If you need a fake ID for whatever reason, it’s important to think carefully about the risks and weigh the potential cost of getting caught. Ultimately, the best course of action is to avoid using a fake ID altogether.

It is essential to remember that the consequences of engaging in criminal activity regarding fake IDs are serious and far-reaching. As a college student, the temptation to indulge in such activities is understandable, but it is critical to remember that the cost of the charges is high.

Before you engage in any illegal activity in Virginia, think twice and consider the long-term consequences. In Virginia, it is not worth the risk!