Novelty id cards: Why polycarbonate is the only choice

If you are buying novelty id cards in 2026, you should only be looking at polycarbonate. PVC is a thing of the past. Polycarbonate is a much harder material that allows for laser engraving and tactile features that are impossible on PVC. It also doesn't delaminate—meaning it won't peel apart at the corners.

Most modern US state IDs have switched to polycarbonate because it is so much more secure. If your vendor is still offering PVC cards for states like CA, TX, or FL, they are selling you an outdated product. The sound, the feel, and the durability of polycarbonate are what bouncers look for the moment you hand them your ID.