Michigan's Fake ID Laws: What You Need to Know

Under Michigan law, using or possessing a fake ID is not a harmless prank. It’s considered a criminal offense and, in some cases, even a felony. If you're under 21 and trying to enter a Plymouth bar or buy alcohol from a liquor store using someone else's ID or an altered one, you're committing a crime under the Michigan Liquor Control Code—specifically MCL 436.1703.

This law prohibits minors from attempting to purchase or consume alcohol. Furthermore, it states that a person under 21 shall not:

• Purchase or attempt to purchase alcohol.
• Consume or attempt to consume alcohol.
• Possess any form of alcohol while not accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.
• Furnish a fraudulent or altered identification with the intent to purchase alcohol.

The same statute also makes it illegal for any adult, including store clerks and bartenders, to knowingly sell alcohol to a minor—even if a fake ID is presented. “I didn’t know it was fake” is not always an acceptable defense under Michigan law.

Penalties for Minors Caught with a Fake ID in Plymouth, Michigan

Young people looking to enjoy a "grown-up night out" at one of the many late summer events in Plymouth may not realize just how severe the consequences can be for underage drinking and fake ID usage. Here’s how it generally breaks down for first-time and repeat offenders:

First Offense (Misdemeanor)

• Fines up to $100.
• Mandatory substance abuse screening and treatment if ordered by the court.
• Up to 90 days of driver license suspension.
• Community service up to 90 days.
• A criminal record.

After completing all court-ordered conditions, first-time offenders may be eligible for a deferred sentence under MCL 436.1703(3), meaning the charge can be dismissed. However, they must stay out of trouble for a specified period.

Second Offense

• Fines up to $200.
• Up to 30 days in jail.
• Mandatory driver license suspension of 90 days with a restricted license option after 30 days.
• Increased community service and possible probation.

Third Offense or More

• Up to 60 days in jail.
• Substantial fines and court costs.
• License suspension for a full year.
• Possibility of long-term probation or a criminal record that’s difficult to expunge.

The most serious consequence? A criminal record that may follow the minor for years, affecting college applications, scholarships, financial aid, and future employment opportunities.

What Happens to Clerks and Bartenders Who Serve Minors?

Michigan law doesn’t place the blame solely on minors. If a bartender or store clerk in Plymouth sells or serves alcohol to someone underage—even if the ID looked legitimate—they can be charged with a misdemeanor or, in extreme cases, a more serious offense.

Clerk or Bartender Liability: MCL 436.1801

Under Michigan Compiled Laws section 436.1801, it's illegal for licensed establishments to:

• Sell, furnish, or give alcohol to a minor.
• Allow a minor to consume alcohol on the premises.

Penalties for Violations by Adults

Anyone over 21—including employees of bars and liquor stores—who sells or provides alcohol to a minor faces:

• A misdemeanor charge.
• Up to $1,000 in fines.
• Up to 60 days in jail.
• Community service requirements.
• Damaged employment reputation, especially for licensed servers and cashiers.

In cases where injuries or fatalities result from the illegal sale of alcohol to a minor, prosecutors may pursue more serious charges, including felonies or charges of involuntary manslaughter.

Driver's License Consequences for Using a Fake ID

In Michigan, using a fake ID isn’t just a drinking-related offense—it’s also a traffic-related offense that results in consequences from the Secretary of State.

Under Michigan law, a conviction may result in:

• Suspension of your driver’s license for 90 days to 1 year (depending on severity and number of offenses).
• A restricted license may be granted after part of the suspension period is served.
• Additional points on your driving record.

Having your license suspended can create a ripple effect in your life. If you rely on driving to get to school or work, this becomes a major disruption. Parents often find out after receiving a letter from the Secretary of State—and that’s not a pleasant conversation.

Can You Go to Jail for a Fake ID in Michigan?

Absolutely. While jail time is rare for a first offense, it is legally on the table. Judges in Plymouth’s 35th District Court do not take underage drinking and fake ID charges lightly, especially given the growing concerns about binge drinking and dangerous behavior among college-aged students and teens.

If aggravating circumstances exist—such as lying to the police, using a fake government ID, or driving under the influence—a minor can face multiple charges stacked together. In serious cases, this could mean serving real jail time, being placed on probation, or being sentenced to intensive substance abuse programs.

Common Defense Strategies Used by Criminal Defense Attorneys

Every case is different, and the defense will vary depending on the facts. Here are a few possible defense strategies an experienced criminal defense attorney might consider:

• Lack of intent – Proving the person did not knowingly present a fake ID.
• Illegal search or seizure – Arguing that the ID was obtained unlawfully by police.
• First Offender Programs – Negotiating a deferred sentence or diversion program for dismissal of charges upon successful completion.
• Entrapment – If the clerk was pressured into making the sale, their attorney might use this as part of the defense.

Don’t assume that using a fake ID will just result in a slap on the wrist. The courts treat these cases seriously—and prosecutors will too. That’s why you need an attorney who knows the ins and outs of both state law and the 35th District Court.

How to Get Help if You've Been Charged

Whether you’re a teen, parent, or bartender in trouble for a fake ID or underage drinking in Plymouth, the first step is finding legal representation with experience handling cases just like yours. Criminal defense attorney Aaron J. Boria has a proven track record for reducing or dismissing charges related to underage drinking, fake ID use, and unlawful sale of alcohol.

He’s walked hundreds of clients through the legal maze and helped many walk away without a criminal record. You don’t have to face this alone.

Contact Aaron J. Boria, PLLC at (734) 453-7806 today for a free consultation and real strategies to protect your future.

What to Expect in Plymouth’s 35th District Court

If you’ve been charged in Plymouth, your case will likely be heard at the 35th District Court, located at 660 Plymouth Rd, Plymouth, MI 48170. The bench here is experienced with handling fake ID and minor in possession (MIP) cases, especially during the summer and fall when fake ID use spikes.

The judges understand the temptation for young adults, but that doesn’t mean they’ll go easy on you. Statements matter. Your appearance matters. And your choice in legal representation matters most of all. If you go into court without a seasoned criminal attorney, you risk racking up a permanent record over a youthful mistake.

Parents: What You Should Know

If you're the parent of a teen who’s been caught with a fake ID, you’re probably angry, stressed, and uncertain about the next steps. That's completely understandable. But your first step should be information.

Despite what your teen might think, these charges don’t “just go away.” They carry lasting consequences that can impact everything from insurance rates to college admissions. Getting ahead of the issue by hiring an attorney increases the chances of a positive outcome dramatically.

Defense attorney Aaron J. Boria has helped dozens of families avoid criminal records for their teens by negotiating first offender programs or successful defenses in court. Call our office at (734) 453-7806 if you have questions.

Conclusion

Fake IDs might seem like a rite of passage for some, especially as the summer winds down and tailgate season ramps up in Plymouth. But in Michigan, using or accepting a fake ID is a crime that can result in fines, jail time, driver's license suspension, and a permanent criminal record.

Whether you’re a minor facing charges or a clerk accused of selling to someone underage, getting professional legal help is a game-changer. Don’t try to navigate this alone. Call criminal defense lawyer Aaron J. Boria today at (734) 453-7806. He’ll walk you through your options and fight to keep your record clean.

If you’ve been accused of a fake ID charge or underage drinking offense, help is just a phone call away—and time is of the essence.