Fake ID's
Help NWA Fulfillment • December 12, 2025
Fake ID Charges in Arkansas
Many University of Arkansas students see using a fake ID as a harmless way to get into a bar or buy alcohol. But in Arkansas, possessing or using a fraudulent identification card is a criminal offense that can carry long-term consequences. A fake ID charge can affect your education, future career, and standing at the University.
At Taylor Law Partners, we understand how common these charges are among college students — and how important it is to fight them. Our attorneys defend students accused of fake ID violations in Fayetteville and across Northwest Arkansas, working to protect their records and their futures.
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Key Takeaways
| Possessing or trying to use a fake ID is a crime | First offense is typically a Class B misdemeanor; repeat offenses can escalate. |
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| Making or altering an ID is usually a felony | Unless you altered only your own ID for your own use (that’s a Class A misdemeanor). |
| You can lose your driver’s license | Attempting to buy alcohol with a fake/altered ID can trigger 60-120 days to 1 year suspension based on priors. |
| Using someone else’s real license is illegal too | “Unlawful use of license” is a misdemeanor with fines and possible jail up to 90 days. |
| Minor-in-Possession (MIP) can stack | Separate offenses with fines and court-ordered education/probation. |
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What counts as a “fake ID” in Arkansas?
Arkansas law covers (1) manufacturing/altering IDs and (2) possessing/using altered or fraudulent IDs to buy alcohol or access 21+ spaces. It also bans borrowing or lending a real license.
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Arkansas Law on Fake IDs
- A.C.A. § 5-27-503 — Possession/Use/Attempt
It’s illegal to possess a fraudulent or altered ID, to use it, or to attempt to buy alcohol with it if you’re under 21. - Penalties: First offense Class B misdemeanor; subsequent Class A misdemeanor. Includes immediate surrender of license and administrative suspension under § 5-65-402.
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A.C.A. § 5-27-502 — Manufacturing/Altering/Selling
Making, altering, or distributing a fraudulent ID intended for someone under 21 is generally a Class C felony. - Exception: If you altered your own ID for your own use, it’s a Class A misdemeanor. Subsequent violations are a Class B felony.
- A.C.A. § 27-16-302 — Unlawful Use of License
Prohibits displaying a fictitious or fraudulently altered license, using someone else’s license, lending yours, or using a false name in an application. Classified as a misdemeanor under Chapter 16. - A.C.A. § 27-16-301 — Penalty Generally (Driver’s License Chapter)
Misdemeanors under this chapter can be punished by up to $500 fine, up to 90 days’ jail, or both, unless a different penalty applies. - A.C.A. § 3-3-203 — Purchase or Possession by Minor (MIP)
Separate offense: under 21 may not purchase or possess alcohol (alcohol in the body counts as possession). Courts can impose fines and educational/probationary conditions. - A.C.A. § 5-65-402 — Surrender of License / Administrative Suspension
When arrested for attempted purchase/use with fake ID, expect immediate license surrender and administrative suspension. The DFA schedule for underage offenses is 60 days (1st), 120 days (2nd), 1 year (3rd+).
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Common Campus Scenarios
- Borrowing a roommate’s ID to get into Dickson Street bars:
That’s “displaying a license not issued to you” and “unlawful use of license” (misdemeanor), and if it’s to buy alcohol, you’re also in § 5-27-503 territory. - Ordering a “duplicate” from an online vendor:
Manufacturing/altering/distributing fraudulent IDs is generally a felony, and buying from those vendors can tie you to § 5-27-502. - Photoshopping your own license to tweak the DOB:
Altering your own ID for your use is still a Class A misdemeanor (not a felony), and using it to attempt purchase triggers license consequences.
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Protecting Your Education and Future
A fake ID might seem like a rite of passage, but a conviction can follow you for years. For University of Arkansas students, it can impact scholarships, housing, and even your career path. Taylor Law Partners provides skilled defense for students facing fake ID charges in Fayetteville and throughout Northwest Arkansas.
If you or your child has been charged with possessing or using a fake ID, contact Taylor Law Partners today. Our attorneys will fight to protect your rights and your future.
Call: (479) 316 – 6300
Office: Taylor Law Partners, 211 E. Dickson Street Ste. 1, Fayetteville, AR 72701
Website:
https://taylorlawpartners.com
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