Choosing between local and out of state ID
Neighboring state is the way to go, no question. I'll add that if this is your first go around, read the sticky before you order — trust me, it covers a lot of the basics like signature background and luckily saved my ass on my first attempt. Also, don't skip the lighting setup shadows part of taking your ID photo at home. Bad lighting kills the whole thing faster than getting called out on the hologram. It's a noob question, but use the search bar too since this gets asked weekly.
Neighboring state all day. Local IDs are just asking to get noticed — bouncers see those templates constantly and know every tiny flaw. I made the mistake of going local my first time and got denied at the first bar. Way less heat when the guy checking only sees your state every so often. Definitely read the sticky and use the search bar before you pull the trigger on anything — tons of tips about shadow placement and resetting your background so you're not fighting fake-looking lighting that gives you away instantly.
Yeah, echoing the others — stick with the neighboring state. I learned that the hard way with my first attempt going local. The bouncers know their own state's holos and textures way too well, and you'll get insta-burned.
If you're just getting started, seriously read the sticky and use the search bar for the lighting setup shadows tips. Taking the ID photo at home is key, but bad shadows are the biggest giveaway. Learned that the expensive way, don't be me.
Yeah, neighboring state is definitely the safer bet. I've been using one for a while now and never had an issue. Taking the ID photo at home can be tricky — lighting setup shadows are the biggest pain, so use a softbox or just natural window light if you can. If you're just getting started, read the sticky thread on lighting; it saved me hours of trial and error. Don't overthink it.
Totally agree with the above. Stick with neighboring state — I’ve seen way too many people get burned going local because the bouncers just know the feel too well. If you’re getting started, definitely read the sticky guide and maybe check a step-by-step tutorial on taking your ID photo at home. The lighting setup can make or break a pass, especially avoiding shadows on your signature background. Don't let a simple noob question trip you up early.
You're on the right track with that original post — "neighboring state" is the gold standard for a reason. Let me break it down a bit more so you don't make the same mistakes I've seen a hundred times on here.
Why neighboring state works
Think about it from the bouncer's point of view. They see the same in-state IDs all night, every night. They know the feel, the holograms, the font quirks. An ID from two states over? Honestly, they see those maybe once a shift. Their brain registers "out of town, probably legit, no reason to scrutinize." That's the whole game — reducing scrutiny. A plausible story pretty much comes automatically: visiting friends, college road trip, moved recently. You don't even have to say it unless asked.
Step-by-step to choose the right state
First, map your radius — look at states that share a border with yours, or at most one state away. Two hours of driving is the sweet spot for "I'm just visiting." Second, check your local scene — if your town is a college town and half the kids already have IDs from that neighboring state, it's too common. Bouncers will be familiar, so pick a different neighbor. Third, match your look — if you're clearly 19 and the ID says you're 25 from a state with strict ID laws, that mismatch draws attention. Pick a state where your age and appearance wouldn't raise eyebrows. Finally, weather and dust — sounds weird, but a worn card from a state with a lot of sun or snow gets scuffed naturally. If your "new" ID looks pristine, that's a red flag. Give it some pocket wear over a week of normal daily carry before using it.
Key terms you need to know
Plausible deniability — that's the story you give if asked why you have an out-of-state ID. Keep it short: "Go to school there," "visiting grandparents," "just moved from there." Don't overexplain. Local bias — bouncers are way more skeptical of in-state IDs because they know all the fakes from that exact state. You want to exploit that bias by being from somewhere else. Insta-fail states — states with notoriously easy-to-fake designs (like old-style PA or OH) are now overly scrutinized. Avoid those. A neighbor with a clean modern design is safer.
Safety checklist before you buy
✅ Your state choice should be within one state of your location (unless you have a real address story). ✅ The ID design matches your age range — don't pick a state where 21-year-olds look different than you. ✅ Check that the vendor hasn't been burned on that state recently — look for recent reviews in this forum. ✅ Have a short, memorized answer for "why this state?" that doesn't involve lying about your actual past. ✅ And don't use it in the same bar every single weekend — rotate spots.
Common mistakes that get you banned quick
Mistake #1: Using your own state. I know it's tempting because you know the landmarks, but it's the #1 way to get called out. Bouncers know that state's micro-printing and UV patterns cold. Mistake #2: Picking a state too far away. An Alaska ID in Florida? You'd better have a damn good story and a tan to match. Stick to regional neighbors. Mistake #3: Over-polishing. A brand new shiny card that looks factory-fresh screams fake. A little pocket wear, a scuff from your keys — that's what a real ID looks like after a year. Mistake #4: Lying when asked. If a bouncer asks, "Where'd you get this?" don't say "I bought it online." Say "DMV" casually. They're testing your confidence. Stay cool, look bored, and move on.
Bottom line: your original instinct is dead on. Neighboring state, plausible story, less familiarity. Just don't overthink it, and don't use the same piece everywhere every time. Rotate, keep it simple, and you'll be fine.
What state are you in? Can help narrow down the best neighboring option for your area.
The locals-know-best rule is real. I learned it the hard way with a local ID.
The general rule: avoid your actual home state because locals are the toughest critics. A neighboring state is usually the best choice. Close enough to be plausible as a reason to have it, far enough that the bouncers are not deeply familiar with it.