Can You Go to Jail for Fake ID in the UK?

Yes – using or possessing certain fake IDs in the UK can lead to prison time, and courts treat these offences seriously. This page explains the law, real penalties, and why the risks are high.

The Key UK Laws

The main offences are covered by two important laws:

• Identity Documents Act 2010 – makes it illegal to make, possess or use false identity documents (such as passports or official government-issued driving licences) with improper intention
• Fraud Act 2006 – covers possession of articles for use in fraud, including fake IDs

Maximum sentences on indictment:

• Up to 10 years for fake passports or high-level identity documents
• Up to 7 years for replicas of official government-issued driving licences or similar

Real Cases and Sentences

Courts hand down custodial sentences in many cases:

• 2023 – City of London Police: couple operating a fake ID factory producing passports and driving licences. Both received custodial sentences of several years
• 2024 – NCA Operation Henhouse: gang supplying fake passports to serious criminals. Ringleader sentenced to over 8 years in prison
• 2024 – Manchester Crown Court: individual used a replica official government-issued driving licence for fraud. Received a custodial sentence of over 2 years

Even first-time offences with good mitigation often result in prison if the document is used to deceive.

What Makes It Illegal?

It becomes a crime if the ID:

• Replicates or closely imitates an official government-issued document
• Is possessed or used with intent to deceive (e.g. to gain entry, open accounts, or commit fraud)

Simple possession can still lead to charges if the circumstances suggest improper purpose.

Bottom Line

Replica official government-issued documents are treated as serious forgery. Sentences start at 12–18 months custody for many first offences and increase quickly if linked to other crime.

Novelty cards that do not replicate official government-issued documents are legal to own and sell. Anything that looks like a real passport or official government-issued driving licence and is used to deceive can result in court and likely prison time.

All cards sold on UK ID Pro are 100 % legal novelty items compliant with the Identity Documents Act 2010.