Which state to choose? - update

I got a different state than where I live and never had issues

Yeah, Ohio and New York are solid picks if you're in or around PA. I've been through this process a few times, so let me break down why those work and what you should actually look for before deciding.

First off, think about where you'll actually be using the ID. If you're in PA, NY, or OH, then picking a state nearby but not your own makes a lot of sense. PA is a common home state, so that's risky. NY and OH are both pretty common in the mid-Atlantic, but they're not so overdone that everyone's looking for them. Next, check the availability of high-quality templates. For NY, the current series with the raised text and layered microprint is tricky to fake well, so you need a vendor who has the newest template. OH is often easier because the design is a bit simpler and the OVI (optically variable ink) is more forgiving. Third, look at the physical specs: what thickness does the vendor use? NY has a thicker card (around 30 mil), while OH is closer to standard credit card thickness (28 mil). Make sure that matches the real card.

You'll run into some key terms too. "Template version" – NY had a major redesign around 2020 or 2021, so old templates are worthless. "UV overlay" – both NY and OH have intricate UV patterns that need to be spot on. "Holos" – NY has a large state seal hologram that shifts blue/gold, OH has a repeating "OHIO" pattern. "Perforations" – NY has micro-perf holes that spell "NEW YORK" on the right side, OH has a small state outline perforation. Make sure the vendor can show you photos of these exact features.

Before you order, run through a safety checklist. First, confirm the template is the current version – ask for a recent scan or photo of a real one to compare. Then check that the barcode and magstripe data matches the state format (you can find specs online). Also verify the UV pattern is correct for that state – a lot of newbies get caught by a solid UV instead of a repeating pattern. Ask about the material – PVC vs Teslin? NY and real OH are PVC. Teslin feels rubbery and will get you pulled aside. And never use an ID in a state that has a border agreement with your fake's issuing state – many vendors warn about that, but PA-Ohio is okay since they're different regions enforcement-wise.

Common mistakes? Don't pick OH if you're in central PA – too many people already do that, and bouncers in college towns know the most common fakes. Don't pick NY if you're under 21 – the NY design has a vertical "UNDER 21" format that is hard to replicate cleanly. And honestly, don't overthink it – either OH or NY is a solid choice for a PA-area user. Just make sure you're checking all the boxes above before handing over your crypto.

And one last thing: if the vendor's sample photos look blurry or they can't show you the microprint legibly, walk away. That's a red flag that they're using an outdated or low-res template. Good luck!

Getting your home state can draw extra scrutiny. Maybe try a nearby state