Teenagers often turn to fake IDs to allow them to purchase alcohol. Minors in Florida who are caught with fake IDs, or in possession of alcohol face serious criminal penalties including jail, fines, community service, counseling, probation, and potentially losing your driver’s license.

 “Is this really you?”

In Florida, it is illegal to drink or purchase alcohol if you are under 21.  Many teens will be tempted to try to get around this law by using a fake ID. Creating a fake ID is also easier than ever thanks to advancements in printing technology.

However, if you are caught with a fake ID that misrepresents your name or age you can be found guilty of a felony in the third degree. This can carry a prison sentence of up to five years. It is just as bad to alter, make, sell or trade such forms of fake ID.

Although it is easier than ever to buy or create a fake ID, it has also never been easier to get caught using a fake ID. Modern IDs often use features like holograms, magnetic stripes, and facial recognition databases that are much harder to imitate. Merely having a fake ID on you is also a crime—you don’t have to be caught using it.

“But that’s not my beer!”

A red solo cup is not going to save you from investigation and potential arrest for underage drinking. Even if you are at a party and not found holding the cup, you could still get in trouble. If the alcoholic beverage was in a place over which you had control and knowledge of the beverage it could be enough to get you in real trouble.

A first violation for underage possession is a second-degree misdemeanor and is punishable by up to 60 days in jail, 6 months of probation and/or a $500 fine. Second and all subsequent offenses are first-degree misdemeanors and are punishable by up to one year in jail, one year of probation and/or a $1,000 fine.

“But my parents are cool”

Just because someone’s parents allow them to have a party, that does not make it lawful for minors to consume alcohol. When alcohol and/or drugs are consumed by minors with the knowledge and/or permission of an adult who is over the age of 18, the party hosts face serious criminal penalties and potential civil liability for harm to attendees. Teenagers and their parents should consider the potential for impaired driving, alcohol poisoning, or other harmful effects.

How did you lose your license?

A conviction for underage possession of alcohol can result in the suspension of your license for six months to one year. Even if at the time of the offense you have never had a driver’s license, the DMV will revoke your right to obtain a driver’s license until the period of suspension is over. It does not matter that the offense has absolutely nothing to do with driving or owning a motor vehicle.

 What if I drink CBD/THC drinks instead?

The same basic rules regarding age requirements apply to CBD and THC products, including canned beverages. Depending on the contents of a drink, it is highly likely that you need to be 21 or older to purchase or consume it.

Going from Bad to Worse

The risks for possessing a fake ID and engaging in underage drinking are substantial, but pale in comparison to the risks of drinking and driving, public intoxication or resisting/evading arrest. Teenagers should be wary not to turn a bad situation into a worse one, including arrest, injury or death.