If you run a physical store, here's your step-by-step ID checking protocol:
✅ The 7-Step ID Check Process
1.Ask for ID before discussing products. Don't wait until they're at the register — card them as soon as they approach the vape section or counter.
2.Check that the ID is valid. Look for expiration date, signs of tampering, photo quality, and that it's a government-issued ID.
3.Verify the photo matches the person. Compare height, weight, eye color, and facial features. Look for the person in front of you, not just the photo.
4.Calculate the age. Don't just glance at the birth year — do the math. Or use an ID scanner that auto-calculates.
5.Check the birth date, not just the year. Someone born in late 2005 might be 20 or 21 depending on whether their birthday has passed this year.
6.Scan it (if you have a scanner). Barcode scanners pull the actual DOB and validate the ID format — much more reliable than visual checking.
7.If under 21, refuse the sale. Be polite but firm. "I'm sorry, but I can't sell this to you." Don't debate, don't lecture, just refuse.
How to Spot a Fake ID
Fake IDs are getting better every year, but there are still telltale signs:
- Bumps, bubbles, or peeling edges on the ID surface
- Blurry or low-quality photo — real IDs have crisp, high-resolution photos
- Incorrect hologram — state IDs have specific holographic features; know what yours looks like
- Signature doesn't match — if they sign and it looks different from the ID signature
- ID scanner reads error or wrong info — scanners detect most fakes
- The person doesn't match the photo — height, weight, facial structure mismatch
- Nervous behavior — avoiding eye contact, rushing, giving inconsistent information
💡 Pro Tip: "Card Everyone Under 27" (or Everyone)
The FDA's guidance is to card anyone who appears under 27. But the safest policy is "no ID, no sale — no exceptions" for every customer. It eliminates guesswork, treats everyone equally, and gives you the strongest compliance defense. Many successful vape chains card 100% of customers, and it's worth it for the peace of mind.
