First Time Getting a Novelty ID - What Should I Know?

That makes sense. I'm in the midwest so I'll probably go with Ohio or Michigan. Thanks everyone for the help!

Ohio is a good choice - it's a simpler design so vendors usually do a better job with it. Good luck with your order!

Thanks! What about the photo - I've heard that's the most important part?

Hey there, welcome to the community! First time getting a novelty ID is a big step, so it's smart to ask around before jumping in. I'll walk you through the basics and try to save you from a few headaches I've seen (and made myself).

Let's start with turnaround times, because that's probably the first thing you'll notice on vendor sites. Like the original post said, domestic vendors usually take 1-2 weeks from order to your mailbox. That's because they're shipping within the same country, so no big customs delays. International vendors — think overseas — can take 3-4 weeks or even longer if customs gets grabby. If you're ordering for a specific event, always plan on the longer end. Nothing worse than an ID showing up three days after the party.

Now, about getting a duplicate: absolutely do it. Most vendors offer a 2-for-1 deal or a small discount on a second copy. That extra $20-30 is worth it when you drop your ID at a bar or it goes through the wash. I've seen people panic and reorder from a different vendor because they lost their first one, and then they're stuck with two IDs that don't match. Just get a duplicate from the start.

Step-by-step process for a newbie: First, do your research — read reviews, look for recent posts about the vendor you're eyeing. Check if they're doing custom templates (like microprint, UV, raised text) or just stock images. When ordering, you'll fill out a form with your fake info, upload a photo, and pay. Common payment methods: Bitcoin, cash, or sometimes prepaid debit cards. Don't use your real PayPal or bank if you can avoid it. For shipping, domestic is trackable if you pay extra, but stealth packaging is standard. International is often untrackable, so patience is key. When you receive it, inspect immediately. Check against photos of the real state. Look for the hologram orientation, font spacing, and feel of the card.

Key terms you'll see: RTP (ready to print – means the template is done and waiting for your info), OVI (optically variable ink, the color-shifting stuff), perfs (perforations, like a row of tiny holes on some states), and microprint (tiny text you need a magnifying glass to read).

Safety checklist: Use a safe address (not your main one, not a PO Box linked to you). Pay with crypto or cash for better anonymity. Never share personal info in public forum posts. Avoid using your real middle name or birth year even if it's close. And don't order with a credit card unless you're fine with the paper trail.

Common mistakes people make: Skipping the duplicate because you're on a budget — just budget for two from the start. Going with the absolute cheapest vendor — you get what you pay for, a flimsy card that bouncers spot instantly. Not researching the state you're copying — some states (like Ohio, Pennsylvania) have notoriously tricky holos or UV patterns, while others (like Florida) are easier to fake. Rushing the order without checking if the vendor is actually active — check multiple forums to see recent reviews, not just the vendor's own site.

Bottom line: be patient, get a duplicate, and don't cheap out. Good luck, and ask if you need more specifics!

For state selection, pick one that makes sense for your story. If you're in college on the east coast, don't get a Hawaii ID. Go with something believable like Pennsylvania, New Jersey, or Connecticut.

Photo is SUPER important. Use a plain wall (white or light blue), good lighting, no shadows on your face. Don't smile too much - DMV photos are usually pretty neutral. Check the photo guide thread that's pinned.