Illinois ID tips - Avoid the bouncer scratch test

In Chicago, a lot of bouncers do the scratch test on the Illinois cards. They use their fingernail to see if the raised text for the DOB is actually part of the card or just printed on top with thick ink. If the ink flakes off, you are in trouble. You need to make sure your vendor is using real laser engraving for the tactile features.

The current Illinois design is very stiff because of the polycarbonate. If your card feels like a credit card, do not even try it in the city. It should have a high-pitched sound when dropped. Also, check the UV on the back; it should show a very specific pattern of the state seal and some wavy lines that are hard to replicate perfectly.