This time of year marks one of our country’s great migrations—college kids leaving home and heading back to campuses across the country. Excited students are often focused on classes, friends, and freedom, rarely considering the legal problems they could face.

Unfortunately, there are many legal pitfalls for college students, some with long-term consequences. One common issue is the misuse of driver’s licenses and identification cards.

Under the Vehicle Code (625 ILCS 5/6-301), it is a Class A Misdemeanor to display or possess someone else’s Illinois driver’s license, or to let another person use yours. A first offense carries a minimum $500 fine. If you go further and create a fraudulent license not issued by the Secretary of State, you can be charged with a Class 4 Felony under 625 ILCS 5/6-301.2.

The Illinois Identification Card Act (15 ILCS 335/14A) makes it a Class 4 Felony to alter a government-issued ID, also with a minimum $500 fine. Similarly, under 15 ILCS 335/14B, the possession, transfer, or manufacture of a fraudulent government-like ID can result in a Class 4 Felony—even for a first offense.

The Liquor Control Act (235 ILCS 5/6-20) further states that possessing, altering, or fraudulently using an ID can be a Class A Misdemeanor, punishable by up to $2,500 in fines and nearly a year in county jail. On top of these penalties, a conviction will also trigger a driver’s license suspension by the Illinois Secretary of State (625 ILCS 5/6-206).

These misdemeanors and felonies bring serious consequences beyond fines and jail time. Arrest, fingerprinting, and a criminal record can lead to losing federal financial aid eligibility, school discipline or expulsion, and barriers to future employment.

Many municipalities also enforce their own violations of these laws, often punishable by fines only. But with the high cost of college, even those fines can be a heavy burden.

Some campuses make matters worse by lowering bar entry ages, tempting students to take risks. With the right information, however, students can avoid mistakes that follow them for years.

If you or someone you know is facing charges for ID misuse, alcohol violations, or related offenses, seek legal help immediately. The consequences can extend far beyond campus life.

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