How long can you use an expired ID? Generally, expired IDs are not valid for official purposes. However, some places might still accept them for a short period after expiration, especially if it’s just for identification and not for legal or age verification purposes.
At a bar, for instance, even though expired IDs can be scanned, the ID scanners usually notify the cashier of the expiration. Depending on your state, using an expired ID for buying alcohol, entering a bar, or shopping at a dispensary may or may not be allowed.
So, which states do not allow expired IDs? Is an expired ID still considered valid? This guide answers these questions and explains the legal aspects of expired IDs for bar and retail shop owners.
Can ID Be Used if Expired?
You may be able to use an ID if expired. Nonetheless, there are scenarios where an expired ID could still hold some value. For instance, in casual situations like verifying your age at a local pub, the staff might be more lenient and accept an expired ID. It depends heavily on the discretion of the individual checking the ID. TSA (Transportation Security Administration) allows an expired ID for up to 1 year.
How Long Can You Use an Expired ID?
An expired ID is not usually valid for official purposes, however, some places will still accept them for a short period after expiration, especially if it’s just for identification and not for legal or age verification purposes.
The length of time you can use an expired ID varies widely and is often at the discretion of whoever is checking it. For instance, a bar is unlikely to accept an expired ID for age verification, but a library might still let you borrow books for a few weeks post-expiration.
How Long Can You Use an Expired ID in Texas?
According to the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission, you can use an expired ID in bars or to buy alcohol. Also, Texas allows renewal of expired ID for up to 2 years.
How Long Can You Use an Expired ID in California?
In California, an expired ID isn’t considered valid. If you drive with an expired license, it is equal to driving without a valid license and you can be cited. According to NOLO, this offense … carries a fine of up to $250 as an infraction, up to 6 months in jail, and a maximum of $1,000 in fines as a misdemeanor.
Regarding bars and other stores, it is up to the store to accept or decline the expired ID based on their judgment.
Can I Fly with an Expired ID?
Are you traveling with an expired license or passport? Fortunately, you may still be able to fly, according to the TSA. However, your expired ID cannot be more than 12 months past the identified expiration date.
If you are traveling with an expired ID, the officers will ask you for two secondary forms of identification that contain the following information:
- Name
- A photo
- Address
- Phone number
- Social Security Number
- Date of birth
Can You Use Expired ID as Proof of Age?
No, you cannot use an expired ID as proof of age because it may no longer reflect your current information or appearance.
Can I Use My Expired ID to Get a New One?
If renewing your ID or other documents, you can use your expired ID as a supporting document if required. This will help prove your identity when combined with other forms of identification or documentation.
Will an Expired ID Scan?
ID scanners can identify expired IDs and invalid driver’s licenses if they feature updated information. They typically read important details from ID cards such as birth date, expiration date, address, name, and physical characteristics. Most of this information is available when scanning an ID’s barcode. If an ID is expired, the scanner notifies the operator. For example, after scanning an expired ID, it might display: “This ID expired on [expiration date].”
ID scanners are very useful in places such as bars, dispensaries, and stores selling age-restricted items, especially where accepting an expired ID is against state law.
How Long Can You Use an Expired ID to Buy Alcohol?
The right question should be, “Is an Expired ID Valid for Alcohol?” Often, during manual checks of driver’s licenses, especially in busy venues, the expiration date is overlooked. Unfortunately, many bars and retail outlets are legally required to refuse expired IDs, depending on the laws of the state. However, some states such as California allow the store to use their own judgment. So, if the attendant believes that you are of age, they may allow you to buy alcohol with an expired ID.
A state like New York forbids buying alcohol with an expired ID. In Washington State, a valid (not expired) ID is required for alcohol purchases or dispensary visits. In Texas, business owners can set their own rules. So, a bar or restaurant might accept an expired ID, while others may not.
Consequences of Not Checking Expiry Dates on IDs
When a business doesn’t verify the expiration date of an ID during a sale of alcohol, there are potential legal issues. If a customer is found to have used an expired ID, they might face legal consequences. Businesses, on the other hand, risk several penalties for this oversight, including:
- Being fined.
- Having their liquor license suspended or revoked.
- Facing criminal charges, depending on state laws and regulations.
Businesses need to be informed about the legal risks linked to accepting expired IDs.
Risks of Accepting an Expired ID
Accepting an expired ID can unintentionally support a secondary market for these IDs. For instance, someone might sell their expired ID to a minor. To mitigate such risks, even if your state allows accepting expired IDs, consider adopting specific policies for your business. These could include:
- Issuing a warning to individuals presenting an expired ID, but accepting it on the first occurrence.
- Setting a limit on how long past the expiration date an ID can be accepted, like not beyond three months.
- Conducting extra verification for expired IDs.
Conclusion
So, it’s really up to your state. But usually, you are able to fly as long as your expired ID is within 12 months of expiration.
Read also: Best Place to Get Fake ID 2024
