Fake IDs have been a common way for underage individuals to try and gain access to alcohol and other age-restricted venues. Whether it’s a college student trying to get into a bar or a teenager attempting to purchase cigarettes, fake IDs have long been a popular tool for those looking to break the rules.

One way that bouncers and other authority figures try to catch these fake IDs is by performing a bend test. This simple test involves bending the ID to see if it feels like a genuine government-issued ID or if it seems flimsy and fake. If the ID fails the bend test, it’s likely a fake.

There are a few different ways that fake IDs can fail a bend test. The most common way is if the ID is made of a material that is too flimsy or cheap. Real IDs are typically made of a sturdy plastic material that can withstand being bent without breaking. Fake IDs, on the other hand, are often made of cheaper materials like paper or laminated paper, which can easily bend and crease.

Another way that fake IDs can fail a bend test is if they have been tampered with or altered in some way. For example, if someone has tried to change the birthdate or expiration date on the ID, it may not bend properly because the alteration has created a weak spot in the material. Additionally, if the ID has been printed on a low-quality printer or laminated poorly, it may not pass the bend test.

While the bend test is a simple and effective way to catch fake IDs, it’s not foolproof. Some fake IDs are made of higher-quality materials that can withstand a bend test, making them harder to detect. Additionally, some individuals may be able to create convincing fake IDs that pass the bend test by using more sophisticated printing techniques or materials.

In addition to the bend test, there are other ways that bouncers and other authority figures can spot fake IDs. One common method is to use a blacklight to check for hidden security features on the ID. Many government-issued IDs have UV ink or other security features that are only visible under a blacklight. If these features are missing or altered on a fake ID, it’s a clear sign that the ID is not genuine.

Another way to spot fake IDs is to compare them to a legitimate ID from the same state or country. Each government-issued ID has specific security features and design elements that are unique to that state or country. By comparing a suspected fake ID to a real ID from the same location, bouncers can look for discrepancies in the design or security features that may indicate that the ID is fake.

While fake IDs can be a nuisance for businesses and authorities, they can also have serious consequences for the individuals using them. In many states and countries, possessing or using a fake ID is a criminal offense that can result in fines, community service, or even jail time. Additionally, individuals who use fake IDs to purchase alcohol or tobacco may face additional penalties, such as having their driver’s license suspended or being barred from entering certain establishments.

Overall, the bend test is just one tool that bouncers and other authority figures can use to combat the use of fake IDs. While it’s not foolproof, it can be an effective way to quickly spot fake IDs and prevent underage individuals from gaining access to age-restricted venues. By combining the bend test with other methods of ID verification, businesses and authorities can work together to keep their establishments safe and compliant with the law.