10 Things You Should Never Do With a Novelty ID

Novelty IDs are meant to entertain, not impersonate. They’re fun tools for parties, props for skits, and gag gifts that add flair to social moments—but using them the wrong way can get you into serious trouble. If you own or plan to purchase a novelty ID, knowing what not to do is just as important as knowing how to enjoy it.

Here are 10 things you should NEVER do with a novelty ID:

1. Never Use It as a Real Form of Identification

Let’s be clear: novelty IDs are not real IDs. You should never present one at a government office, airport, police checkpoint, or anywhere else that requires a legitimate ID. It’s not just a bad idea—it’s a crime in many jurisdictions.

While novelty IDs may look authentic for comedic or entertainment purposes, they are clearly marked as non-functional. Using one in a serious setting not only undermines your credibility but can also result in legal consequences. Always keep them where they belong—at parties, events, or in your comedy skits.

2. Don’t Try to Buy Alcohol or Get Into Age-Restricted Venues

Using a novelty ID to pretend you're of legal drinking age is a fast way to get kicked out of a bar—or worse, arrested. Bouncers, bartenders, and store clerks are trained to spot fakes, and many use scanners. A novelty ID might get a laugh at a party, but trying to fool a liquor store? That’s a serious offense.

Not only could you face fines or criminal charges, but it could also lead to disciplinary action if you're caught as a student. Remember, novelty IDs are meant to enhance fun, not to cross legal lines. Save them for games, not the bar counter.

3. Never Use It to Impersonate Law Enforcement

Carrying a card that says “FBI Agent” or “Police Inspector” might sound funny at a frat party, but impersonating a cop—even jokingly—can be illegal. It’s especially risky in public places where someone might take it seriously. Avoid real titles like “Officer,” “Sheriff,” or “Security Enforcement” outside of comedy skits or controlled events.

People have been arrested for impersonating officials, even if it was meant as a joke. Always keep the line between comedy and criminal clear. Opt for fictional agency names or humorous roles like “Department of Dance Floor Safety” instead of real-world authorities.

4. Don’t Use It in Traffic Stops

Getting pulled over is stressful—but handing over a novelty ID instead of a real license will only make it worse. It’s never a joke to law enforcement. In some areas, this could lead to charges for obstruction or presenting false documentation.

If you ever find yourself in a legal or serious setting, your novelty ID should stay tucked away. Using it in the wrong moment won’t make you funny—it’ll make you a suspect. Keep your real ID ready for the real world and save the joke for the party.

5. Never Alter or Forge Government Seals or Logos

Adding a real government logo, seal, or hologram to your novelty ID crosses a legal line. Quality novelty ID makers avoid this deliberately. You should, too. Keep things fictional and humorous—never mimic official documents or try to pass your card off as a government-issued product.

Even a well-intentioned joke can turn serious if it looks too real. Misleading symbols or design elements can result in charges for document forgery. Stay creative, but steer clear of anything that resembles authentic credentials too closely.

6. Don’t Flash It in Sensitive Locations (Airports, Courthouses, Banks)

These are zero-tolerance environments. Pulling out a novelty ID in an airport or secure building might lead to security alerts, questioning, or confiscation. Play it safe—keep your gag cards far away from serious spaces.

Places like airports and courthouses operate under heightened surveillance and strict rules. Anything perceived as a threat or forgery—even a joke—can trigger serious responses. It's best to avoid misunderstandings altogether by keeping novelty items out of such areas.

7. Never Post It Online Without Context

A selfie with a novelty ID blogs that says “Secret Service” might seem funny, but if you post it online without context, someone could misunderstand—or worse, report it. Always add captions like “Just a joke!” or “Party prop” when sharing on social media to avoid confusion or unwanted attention.

The internet is a powerful place, and once something is out there, it can be taken out of context quickly. Protect yourself by ensuring people understand that your novelty ID is harmless. A clear caption can prevent misinformation or unnecessary drama.

8. Don’t Use It to Trick Friends or Authority Figures

Fooling your friends for laughs is one thing, but tricking your RA, professor, or local authorities can spiral quickly into disciplinary action or legal trouble. Keep the joke within your circle and make sure everyone’s in on it.

College campuses and professional environments usually have strict conduct policies. Even a harmless prank can get you reported. Keep novelty IDs for low-stakes fun, and never try to outsmart someone with authority using fake credentials.

9. Don’t Lend It to Someone for Sketchy Purposes

Even if you’re not misusing your novelty ID, giving it to someone else to try and sneak into a bar or buy alcohol puts your name, face, and reputation on the line. You could be held responsible if things go south. Keep your card, and your fun, in your control.

Sharing novelty IDs makes it easier for others to misuse them in ways you didn’t intend. It’s safer—and smarter—to keep your personalized card to yourself. After all, it was made for your enjoyment, not someone else’s potential mistake.

10. Don’t Forget It’s Just for Fun

The #1 mistake? Taking it too seriously. Novelty IDs are great for themed events, content creation, or just making your friends laugh—but they’re not meant to impersonate anyone, break rules, or gain access to anything real. If you remember that, you’ll stay safe and out of trouble.

Used properly, novelty IDs can be hilarious icebreakers, memorable keepsakes, and social tools. Just remember their limits. Respect the boundaries between humor and harm, and your novelty ID will always be a source of joy—not regret.