how to make drivers licenses loompanics

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0n Your llome comRutGlSometimes you just need to fake it.Author Max Forg6 brings liberation to the

technology front with this step-by-step man-ual that tells you everything you need toknow about making your own lD cards athome. lnstructions are outlined in plain lan-guage so that even a novice can set upshop, download software, and createauthentic-looking cards to fool bouncersand store clerks.

With this book, you'll never again sit wait-ing for your mail-order lD. Gone are thedays when you have to settle for flagrantlyfake lD. Bring the power of technologyhome with thisbook, and do ityourself theright way.$12.00

ISBN t -55550-1,1q-r{

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Howto MakellriuGr's LiGensesanil othGr IIIonYout llomo Comrutcl

Howto lulakeDriuer's LiGensesanil Omer IIIon [our llorno Comrutsl

[y ilax Forge

Loompanics UnlimitedPort Townsend, Wash ington

This book is sold for informational purposes only. Neither theauthor nor the publisher will be held accountable for the use ormisuse of the information contained in this book.

]hul t0 illakc Driuefs licenses and 0fiel lll 0n Youl HomeComputer

@ 1999 by Max Forg6

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced orstored in any form whatsoever without the prior written consentof the publisher. Reviews may quote brief passages without thewritten consent of the publisher as long as proper crcdit is given.

Published by:Loompanics UnlimitedPO Box tL97Port Townsend, WA 98368

Loompanics Unlimited is a division of Loompanics Enterprises, Inc.(360) 38s-2230E-mail: loompanx @ olympus.netWeb site: www.loompanics.com

Illustrations by Jim B.

ISBN 1-55950-1944Library of Congress Card Catalog 99-63626

Contentslntroduction. .......... 1Definitions.. ..........3Chapter One

Required Equipment and Suppliers. ......5Chapter Two

Configuring Photoshop. ....... 11Chapter Three

Acquiring the License Template... ....... 19Chapter Four

Scanning the License and Preparingthe License Template ...23

Chapter FiveGetting a License Template on the lnternet ......35

Chapter SixAdding the Picture. ....... 39

Chapter SevenLicense Font ldentification. ...49

Chapter EightLicense Personalization .......53

Chapter NineHolograms... ....... .........59Chapter Ten

License Structure.... ....61

Chapter ElevenPrinting, Cutting, and LaminatingStructure One Licenses.... ....65

Chapter TwelvePrinting, Cutting, and LaminatingStructure Two Licenses.... ....75

Chapter ThirteenPrinting, Cutting, and LaminatingStructure Three Licenses..... ..83

Chapter FourteenBack-up 1D... .........91

Chapter FifteenEvaluating the ComPleted License:ls lt Good Enough?.. ......95

Chapter SixteenUsing the License lntelligently ......99

Appendix A . .......101

lntroducfion

lntroduction

The driver's license has become America's primaryform of identification. These days it is impossible to casha check, open a bank account, rent a mailbox or buy abeer without one. While some individuals find it annoyingthat they must show their license at every turn, I find itliberating! The common belief that a license is extremelydifficult to duplicate has been very empowering to thoseof us who know better.

This book discusses the techniques developed duringmy four years of manufacturing fake lD with my homecomputer. !t provides a detailed description of theequipment, software, and assembly of widely acceptedfake lD. While this book focuses primarily on driver'slicenses, its techniques can be easily applied to themanufacture of almost any form of identification ordocument.

Editor's Note: This book is in no way intended to bean endorsement for any printers or software mentioned.The author uses a specific program and mentionsspecific brands of printers, laminators, and suppliesbecause they were, in his opinion, the best available forthe purpose outlined.

Definitions

Definitions

Throughout the book, the following terms will be used:

. Physical license: The actual license that is beingcounterfeited.

. License template: The computer copy of the physi-cal license.

. lnformation card: The paper or Teslin with a pictureand personal information printed on it.

Quick ReferenceAppendix A contains annotated printouts of the photo-

shop menus and tools used in this book.

Chopter OneRequired Eqvipment and Suppliers

Chopter OneRequired Equipment

How to Moke Drlver's Ucenses ond Other lDon Your Home Computer

6

The PrinterThe printer is the most critical piece of license-

counterfeiting equipment. lf the printer isn't good, thelicense won't be either, regardless of how much moneywas invested in the other system components.

At a minimum, a 600 x 600 DPl, color ink-jet printer isrequired. of course, all printers are not created equat.The following printers have distinguished themselves asbeing a cut above the rest.

Chopfer OneRequired Equipment ond Supplrers

The ScannerThe difference between a $ZO bargain-basement

scanner and a $400 scanner is very noticeable. Eitherone will ultimately work, but it will take a lot more failedattempts before an adequate scan is achieved on acheap scanner.

At a minimum, a 300 x 600 DPI 30-bit scanner is re-quired, but for just $50 more, a 600 x 1200 DPI 36-bitscanner is preferred. The following scanners are feature-packed and reasonably priced.

RECOMMENDED EQUIPMENT

Make/Model Number Price CommentsUMAX ASTRA 1220P $1 20 600 x 1200 DPl, 36-bit.

Very good scan. Excellentcolor.

UMAX ASTRA 24OOS $400 1200 x 2400 DPl, 36-bit.Excellent scan and color.

The LaminatorOffice supply stores, such as Staples and Office De-

pot, sell card-sized laminators for about $+S. lt would bevery easy to spend more but don't bother, as the lessexpensive ones do a great job. The GBC DocuSeal 40 isexcellent for this application.

RECOMMENDED EOUIPMENT

Make/Model Number Price CommentsEPSON 600/800 $220l$250 720 x 1440 DPl.

Good qualitv.

EPSON 740 $240 720 x 1440 DPl. Better colorthan the EPSON 600/800.

ALPS MD-1300 $3s0 1400 x 1400 DPl. Excellentquality. Prints metallic inks.ls capable of printing simu-lated holograms with metal-lic ink.

ALPS MD-sOOO $500 2400 x 2400 DPl. Excellentquality. Prints metallic inks.Foil printing. ls capable ofprinting simulated hologramswith metallic ink.

How to Moke Driver's Licenses qnd Other lDon Your Home Compuler

I

LAM INATOR ALTERNATIVE?

There is no alternative to a laminator. Often, unknowledgeablepeople claim that self-sealing laminates eliminate the need for alaminator. Don't listen! Self-sealing laminates begin to delaminatealmost immediately

-

one quick twist by a suspicious bouncer and thelD will disintegrate.

The SoftwareA copy of Adobe Photoshop 4.0 or 4.1 is required.

Photoshop is one of the most heavily pirated pieces ofsoftware in history. lt can be found at almost everyWAREZ site on the Web or at the local software store for$550. Do not attempt to use any program other thanPhotoshop; it is the best for this kind of work. This bookuses Photoshop exclusively.

FINDING WAREZ SITES CONTAINING PHOTOSHOP

1. Log onto the lnternet.2. Go to http://www.hotbot.com.3. Search for "WAREZ and Photoshop."4. Follow the links to the identified sites.5. Download Photoshop (NOTE: Photoshop is VERY large -

expectto spend several hours downloading this file.).

The ComputerThe better the computer, the easier it will be to

manipulate the scanned images. At a minimum, a PC-compatible, Pentium-based computer with a color moni-tor, 32MB (preferably 6aMB) of RAM, at least 500MB

Chopter OneRequired Eqvipment ond Suppliers

I(preferably 2GB) of free hard disk space, and Windows95 installed is required.

The Lamination PouchesSimple lamination pouches, suitable for non-critical lD,

are available at local office supply stores. The problem isthat many modern lD cards are made with magnetic-stripped PVC cards that can only be printed on with dye-sublimation card printers (they start at about $2,500).Paper laminated between simple lamination pouches willnot fool anyone.

Teslin is the answer. lt is a 7-millimeter, synthetic,paper-like, plastic card that can be printed on with anink-jet printer. During the lamination process, it bonds tothe pouches. The net effect is that the laminated cardlooks and feels like a PVC card.

This supplier sells lamination pouches of variousthicknesses, with or without magnetic strips on the back,and Teslin. There may be others but the address/phonenumber of one verified source is:

POLAFIX INC.PO Box 487

Drums, PA 18222Phone: (717) 7BB-8800

Fax: (717\ 788-4400Order hotline: (800) 784-5678

Web site: http://www.polafix.com

Note: This is a legitimate company. lf asked, pretendthat the supplies are required for manufacturing em-ployee lDs.

How to Moke Drlver's Llcenses ond Other lDon Your Home Computer

l0

a

a

a

a

The Small StuffThe following items are also required:

an Exacto knifea metal ruler600-9rit sand paperlarge poster board closely matching the lD photo-graph's background colorphoto-quality glossy paperElmer's Mucilage glue

o

o

ChopterTwoConfiguring Photoshop

Chopter TwoConfiguring Photoshop

This chapter discusses the required Photoshopconf iguration. To successf ully use this book, it isimperative that Photoshop is configured as follows.


t2

Step 1Start Photoshop.

Step 2Select File from the menu bar. Select Preferences

from the pull-down menu. Select General. Confirmthat the General Properties window is configured asfollows:

ChopterTwoConfiguring Phofoshop

l3

Step 3Select Drsplay & Cursors from the Preferences pick

box. Confirm that the Display & Cursors Propertieswindow is configured as follows:

How to Mqke Drlver's Hcenses qnd Other lDon Your Home Computer

14

Step 4Select Transparency & Gamutfrom the Preferences

pick box. Confirm that the Display & CursorsProperties window is configured as follows:

Step 5Select Unrts & Rulers from

box. Confirm that the Displaywindow is configured as follows:

ChopterTwoConfiguring Phofoshop

t5

the Preferences pick& Cursors Properties

How to Moke Drlver's Licenses ond Other lDon Your Home Computer

t5

Step 6Select Memory & lmage Cache from the

Preferences pick box. Confirm that the Display &Cursors Properties window is configured as follows:

ChopterTwoConfiguring Photoshop

17

Step 7Select Gurdes & Grid from the Preferences pick

box. Confirm that the Display & Cursors Propertieswindow is configured as follows:

Chqpter ThreeAcquiring the License

TemplqteThis chapter discusses three ways to acquire a license

template.

AcquisitionThe first thing required is a good image of the license

to be manufactured. lt will need to be from a state atleast 500 miles away. The reason is simple: People willrecognize that it's a valid lD, but they won't be overlyfamiliar with its appearance. They'll be far more likely toaccept it.

NEW JERSEY

Don't waste time counterfeiting a New Jersey lD. lt has beenso heavily counterfeited over the past few years that it is knownfrom coast to coast as a problem lD. This reputation means thatall New Jersey lDs come under increased scrutiny. ln fact, it hasgotten so bad, that even if the presented New Jersey lD isperfect, it may be refused.

There are severallicense image:

ChopterThreeAcqviring the Lrcense Templote

19

l

ways to obtain a good driver's

How lo Moke Driver's Licenses qnd Other lDon Your Home Computer

20

Option /; Scan a friend's out-of-state license. Theobvious disadvantage here is that the friend will ask a lotof questions. Personally, I tell no one of my activities.One never knows when someone, even a trusted friend,will inadvertently say something to the wrong person. Sounless he's a very good friend (or a very sound sleeper),use this technique sparingly. Chapter Four providesstep-by-step instructions for creating a license templatefrom a physical license. lf you happen to find a lostwallet in the street, you can use the driver's license as atemplate. Just return the rest of the items to the owner.

Option 2: Log on to the lnternet. There are manypeople on the Web interested in trading license images.Chapter Five provides step-by-step instructions forfinding and trading license templates on the lnternet.

Option 3: Create the license template using Photo-shop. License templates are surprisingly easy to create.Many licenses are simply a series of bars and boxes.State seals and other identifying markings are availableall over the lnternet. lt only takes a small amount ofartistic ability and about ten hours to easily create alicense template.

Chopter ThreeAcquiring the License Templote

A VERY USEFUL GUIDE

The lD Checking Guide contains images of all US driver'slicenses and is very useful in identifying licenses which are easyto manufacture. lt also contains detailed information on the codesthat are included on almost every license.

There are several places to obtain this on the lnternet. Onesource is http://www.webbanker.com/pub2.html, or write thecompany directly. The address is:

Driver's License Guide CompanyPO Box 5303

Redwood City, CA 94063

The company is a bit self-righteous so come up with a coverstory. Write the company on letterhead that identifies you as abar or restaurant. Change your answering machine message tomatch the letterhead, because you may get a call.

21

Chopter FourSconning the License ond Preporing

the Lrcense Iem plate23

Chopter FourScqnning the License qnd

Prepqring the LicenseTemplote

This chapter provides step-by-step instructions forcreating a license template from a physical license(Option 1 in Chapter Three).

Required MaterialsPhoto-quality glossy paper is required for the

completion of this chapter.

Part One:Scanning the License

Step 1AClean the license thoroughly with glass cleaner. The

license should look like new prior to scanning.

Step 1BClean the scanner's glass thoroughly.

Step 1CUsing the software that came with the scanner, scan

the front and back of the license at the maximum(software-enhanced) resolution.* All scanners havesoftware extrapolation which allows them to produce


24

much more detailed scans than their optical limitationswould suggest. Save the image as a .JpGfile.*Note: lf a "Lack of Memory" error occurs, reduce the

scan resolution. Do not reduce the resolution to lessthan 1200 DPI or the scan quality will suffer.

Step 1DAfter scanning and saving the image, load it into

Photoshop by pressing the CONTROL and O keyssimultaneously and selecting the file saved in step 1c.

Step 1Eselect lmage from the menu bar. select rmage size

from the puf l-down menu. Enter a Resotution ol 1200(pixels/inch) in the Print size box. At this point, thelicense template will appear to be enormous. Don'tworry, it's just Photoshop's way of showing theincreased detail requested.

Step 1FPress the SHIFT and CONTROL and p keys

simultaneously. select Properties. Configure the printerto print on photo-quality glossy paper at the maximumprinter resolution. This will vary based on the printer so itwill not be covered here

-

consult the printer's owner'smanual.

Step 1GLoad the printer with photo-quality glossy paper. press

the coNTRoL and P keys simultaneousry. crick on theOK bulton. This will print the license template.

Chopter FourScanning the License ond Preparing

the License Template25

Note: lt is important to print the image prior to comparingit to the physical license. lf the physical license iscompared to the image on the display, anydeficiencies or biases in the printer or monitor will notbe taken into consideration.

BE SMARTI

Printing a counterfeit license is illegal. Burn all unused printouts.

Step 1HCompare the printout to the physical license. Pay

careful attention to the state seal, the crispness of thecharacters, and the correctness of the colors.

Step 1lNow it's time to fix any imperfections in the

scanned/printed image. The following is a list of potentialproblems and the ways to correct them:

A. Colors Slightly lncorrect. Sometimes scannedimages appear slightly off color. Photoshop allowsthe license template's color balance to be adjusted.Press the CONTROL and I keys simultaneously.The Color Balance window will pop up. Make surethe Preview box is checked. The license template'sreds, blues, and greens in the shadows, midtonesand highlights can now be independently adjusted.Slide the adjustment sliders and see how they impactthe license template. After a few adjustments, thelicense template image will look perfect. Return toStep 1G.

How to Mqke Driver's Licenses qnd Other !Don Your Home Computer

26

B. The Scan Picked Up License lmperfections orScratches. Sometimes the scan amplifies licenseimperfections or makes the whites look a bit "dirty."Here's where Photoshop's Brightness/Contrastcontrols come into play. Select lmage from the menubar. Select Adiust from the pull-down menu. SelectBrEhtness/Contrast. The Bnghtness/Contrast win-dow will pop up. Make sure the Preuiew box ischecked. Adjust the image via the adjustment sliders.Adding a touch of brightness and contrast will bringback the crisp whites and eliminate any scratches.Return to Step 1G.

C. Colors Way Off or lmage Fuzzy. Be sure that thescanner and physical license are clean. Confirm thatthe scanner and printer are set for maximumresolution. Return to Step 1C.

D. lmage ls at an Angle. Photoshop allows the angle ofthe image to be adjusted. Select lmage from themenu bar. Press the CONTROL and " keyssimultaneously to display a grid. Select RotateCanvas from the pull-down menu. Select ArbitraryEnter the angle that will make the image perfectlylevel. You'll probably miss on the first try but try it afew more times and eventually the image will beperfectly level. Don't bother printing out the image.It's pretty easy to judge the image's level right on thedisplay screen.

Step lJNow it's time to trim the license. confirm that the Tool

Window is showing. lf not, selecl Windowtrom the menu

Chapter FourSconning the License ond Preporing

the License Templofe27

bar. Select Show Tools from the pull-down menu. TheTool Window will be displayed. Select the Marquee Toolfrom the Tool Window (it's the dashed box in the top leftcorner of the Tool Window). Click and drag the marqueeline from the top left corner of the license to the lowerright corner. Make sure that the resulting marquee box isas close to the license's edge as possible; if necessory,zoom in by pressing the CONTROL and + keyssimultaneously. Press the CONTROL and X keyssimultaneously to make the cut. Press the CONTROLand ff keys simultaneously for a new window. Press theCONTROL and V keys simultaneously to paste theimage in a new window. Close the old window withoutsaving the now valueless image.

Step 1KCarefully measure the height and width of the physical

license.* Select lmage from the menu bar. Select lmageSize from the pull-down menu. After ensuring that theConstrain Proportions box is selected, enter lhe Width otthe physical lD in the Print Size box. Photoshop willautomatically calculate the height of the image and putthe value in the Herght section of the Print Size box.Make sure that Photoshop's calculation and the physicalmeasurement of the lDs height are within 0.1 inches ofeach other

-

the closer the better.

*Note: lf the physical license is not available, simplymeasure the license template.

Stepll-Save the image by simultaneously pressing the SHIFT

and CONTROL and .9 keys. Be sure to save it as a

How io Mqke Drlver's Llcenses qnd Other lDon Your Home Computer

28

Photoshop file (by selecting Photoshop (*.PSD, ..PDD)from the Save ,4s pick box). This will save all of theformatting information. While this is not particularlycritical here, it will be in subsequent chapters.

Chopter FourSconnrng the License ond Prepoing

the License Iem plote29

Part Two:Preparing the License Template

Step 2ANow it's time to remove extraneous information,

including all personal text and the signature block, fromthe license. Do not remove any generic text

-

it is a partof the license template and must remain.

DECISION POINTDoes the license contain an anti-counterfeiting image behind the text?

lf no, proceed to Step 2H. lf yes, proceed to Step 28.

Step 28Before continuing, the anti-counterfeiting image and

the text that rests on top of it will need to be removed.Set Photoshop's background color to the color of the

license's background by clicking on the backgroundswatch on the Tool Window then clicking on a blankportion of the license.

Select the Marquee Tool from the Tool Window (it'sthe dashed box in the top left corner of the ToolWindow). Click and drag the marquee line from the topleft corner to the lower right corner of the license areacontaining personal information. When all textinformation and anti-counterfeiting images are within themarquee line, press the CONTROL and X keyssimultaneously to make the cut.

FILE ENCRYPTION?

Consider encrypting all lD-related files. lt will prevent a relative or,worse yet, a law-enforcement official from seeing the suspicious files.There are a number of very effective programs out there.

. JAWS TECHNOLOGIES L5 encryption software isabsolutely unbreakable (4096 bi$ and reasonablypriced. A free 30-day trial is available. The Web siteis http://www.jawstech.com.

. Pretty Good Privacy (PGP) is also a good choice. ltis not as strong as JAWS L5, but it's free. lt isavail ab le at http ://we b. mit.ed u/network/pg p. html.

How to Mqke Driver's Licenses ond Other lDon Your Home Compuler

30

DECISION POINTwas the anti-counterfeiting image deleted in step 28 a hologram or a

ghost image ol the license's primary picture? lf yes, its reptacement wi[be described in subsequent chapters

-

proceed to step 2H. tf no,proceed to Step 2C.

Step 2CNow the anti-counterfeiting image needs to be

replaced. This book will assume that the image is a stateseal.* state seals are all over the lnternet. To find them:. Log on to the lnternet.. Go to http://www.hotbot.com.. Search for "image and state seats."*Note: lf the image is not a state sea!, use the

techniques discussed here to find and reprace theimage.

Step 2DLoad the state seal image into Photoshop. Assess the

picture using the techniques discussed eartier in thischapter, Step 11.

Step 2Ecarefully measure the height of the state seal on the

physical license.* select lmage from the menu bar.select lmage size from the pull-down menu. Enter aResolution of 1200 (pixels/inch) in the print Size box.After ensuring that the constrain proportions box isselected, enter the Width of the state seal into the printsize box. Photoshop will automatically calculate the


fhe License Templote31

height of the image and put the value in the HeEhtsection of the Print Size box. Make sure thatPhotoshop's calculation and the physical measurementof the state seal's height are within 0.1 inches of eachother

-


Wote: lf the physical license is not available, measurethe license template.

Step 2FConfirm that the Tool Window is showing. lf not, select

Wndowfrom the menu bar. Select Show Tools from thepull-down menu. The Tool Window will be displayed.Select lhe Marquee Tooltrom the Tool Window (it's thedashed box in the top left corner of the Tool Window).Click and drag the marquee line from the state seal's topteft corner to the lower right corner. Press lhe CONTROLand X keys simultaneously to make the cut.

Step 2GLoad the license template into Photoshop. Select

Layertrom the menu bar. Select Newlrom the pull-downmenu. Select Layer Click on the OKbutton. Press theCONTROL and / keys simultaneously. The state sealwil! be pasted on a new layer of the license. Use themouse to move the new image to the correct position.

DECISION POINTls the state seal the correct size? lf no, repeat Steps 2C through 2G.

lf yes, proceed to Ghapter Six.

How to Moke Drlver's Ucenses ond Other lDon Your Home Compuler

32

Step 2HZoom in on the license by pressing the CONTROL and

+ keys simultaneously. Confirm that the Tool Window isshowing. lf not, select Window from the menu bar.Select Show Tools from the pull-down menu. The ToolWindow will be displayed.

Set Photoshop's background color to the color of thelicense's background by clicking on the backgroundswatch on the Too! Window then clicking on a blankportion of the license.

Select the Marquee Tool from the Tool Window (it'sthe dashed box in the top left corner of the ToolWindow). ldentify a small, blank portion of the license

-no text, no seals, no nothing. Click and drag themarquee line from the top left corner to the lower rightcorner of the blank portion of the license template. Pressthe CONTROL and X keys simultaneously to make thecut.

Load the printer with photo-quality paper. Press theCONTROL and P keys simultaneously. Ctick on the OKbutton. This will print the license.

DECISION POINTClosely examine the area of the test cut. !s it visible? lf not, then

proceed to step 2N. lf so, then proceed to step 21.

Step 2lThe cut is visible because the license's background

color is not consistent. Never fear -

there is an easyanswer

-

it's called masking. lnstead of cutting the text


the License lemplote33

out of the license, masking will cover the text by pastinga piece of blank license over it. This method solves theproblems caused by inconsistent license backgroundcolors.

Step 2JUsing the Marquee Tool (from the Tool Window),

select a small blank portion of the license -

it should bejust a little bit larger than the license font andapproximately a quarter of an inch long. Press theCONTROL and 6 keys simultaneously. This copies themask.

Step 2KPress lhe CONTROL and /keys simultaneously. This

will paste the mask directly over the area copied in Step2J. Select the Move Tooltrom the Tool Window (it's thetop right box on the Tool Window). With the mouse,move the mask over the personal text to be removed.Notice that the text below the mask is obscured.

Step 2LRepeat Step 2K until all personal text is obscured.

Step 2MPress lhe SH4FTand CONTROL and tkeys to merge

all layers. Proceed to Step 20.

Step 2NContinue to cut personal text via the Marquee Tool (as

described in Step 2H) until all personal text is removed.

How to Mqke Drlver's Licenses ond Other lDon Your Home Computer

34

Step 20Save the image by simultaneously pressing the SHIFT

and CONTROL and .9 keys. Be sure to save it as aPhotoshop file by selecting Photoshop (".PSD, -.PDD)from the Save ,4s pick box. This will save all of theformatti ng i nformation.

ALWAYS USE UNIQUE FILE NAMES

When saving the file, always use a unique file name. lf something goeswrong in subsequent steps, this will allow the retrieval of previously savedimages.

A suggested format is "ChapterX-StepY.psd" (which in this case wouldtrans late lo Chapteiour- Step2O. psd).

Chopter FiveGetting a License Templote on the lnternet

Chopter Five

instructions foron the lnternet

Getting q LicenseTemplote on the lnternefThis chapter provides step-by-step

finding and trading license templates(Option 2 in Chapter Three).

PROCEED WITH CAUTION1. Before transmitting the license to a stranger with potentially bad

intentions, make sure that all critical information is removed.2. Transmitting a license scan over the lnternet is a highly suspicious(and probably illegal) activity. Do not expose your true identity or ISP-based +mail address during the exchange.

Step I. Log on to the lnternet.. Go to http://www.hotmail.com and set up a free

anonymous e-mail address.. Go to http://www.xoom.com and set up a free

anonymous 11 MEG Web site account. This willallow the exchange of template files up to 11 MEGS.Hotmail is limited to 2 MEGS (this is rarely largeenough).

How to Moke Driver's Licenses ond Other lDon Your Home Compuler

36

Step 2To find message boards for people interested in

exchanging fake lD scans:. Log on to the lnternet.. Go to http://www.hotbot.com.. Search for "Fake lD and message board" or "Fake lD

and messages.". Follow the links to the identified sites.

Step 3Post a message like this:

.

Step 4After someone contacts you, write him the following

note:

..Hey (NAME),I'd like to exchange the templates using my

XOOM account. That way we can transmit largefiles. I ZIPPED and password-protected my file,then FTP'd it to FTP.XOOM.COM. The filename is(F|LENAMq.

After you download it, delete it from XOOM.COM. Afteryou delete it, ZIP and password-protect your file andFTP it to FTP.XOOM.COM. After we both have the files,we'll exchange passwords.

Chopter FiveGetting o License lem plote on fhe lnternet

37

The XOOM username is (USERNAME).The XOOMpassword is (PASSWORD).

Step 5After your contact uploads his license template file to

the XOOM account, download it and save it on the harddrive.

Step 6After downloading the file, send him a note with the

ZIP password.

Step 7Change the XOOM account's password.

Step 8After receiving the ZIP tile password, decompress the

ZIP tile.

Chopter SixAdding the Picture

39

Chqpter SixAdding the Picture

This chapter provides step-by-step instructions ontaking the picture, sizing and trimming it and placing thepicture on the license template. lt assumes that youhave a camera with a timer.

Required MaterialsThe following materials are required for the completion

of this chapter:. photo-quality glossy paper. ffitdl-edged ruler. poster board that matches the license photograph's

background color

Step 1Examine the photograph on the !D. Take note of the:

. background color

. position of the camera (typically at eye level)

. photo composition (typically the picture is from thetop of the head to the bottom of the neck)

Recreate the photograph's conditions as closely aspossible. Obtain a large poster board closely matchingthe license photograph's background color. Secure it tothe wall at head and shoulder level. For best results, use

How to Moke Drlver's Llcenses qnd Other lDon Your Home Computer

40

a couple of 500-watt halogen shop lamps to illuminatethe poster board (they cost about $8 each at the localhardware store). Be sure to position them to the left andright of the poster board, pointing directly at the subject.This will minimize shadowing. lf halogen shop lamps arenot available, use the camera's flash. Be sure to use theanti-red-eye setting.

Use a tripod (or anything stable) to raise the camera tothe appropriate level. For best results, fill the entireframe area with your head and shoulders.

Now set the camera's timer, stand in front of the posterboard and take several pictures of yourself.

Step 2Scan or load the pictures into the computer using the

software that came with the scanner or digital camera.Examine the pictures and choose the one that mostclosely resembles the composition of the physicallicense's picture. Pay careful attention to the backgroundcolor: lt should be identical or as close as possible to thebackground color on the lD template.

Step 3Load the picture into Photoshop. Assess the picture

using the techniques discussed in Chapter Four, Step 11.

Step 4Select lmage from the menu bar. Select lmage Sbe

from the pull-down menu. Enter a Resolutbn of 1200(pixels/inch) in the Prnt Size box.


41

Step 5Now it's time to trim the picture. Confirm that the

horizontal and vertical rulers are displayed on yourpicture. lf not, press the CONTROL and R keyssimultaneously.

Confirm that the Tool Window is showing. lf not, selectWindowfrom the menu bar. Select Show Tools from thepull-down menu. The Tool Window will be displayed.Select the Marquee Tooltrom the Tool Window (it's thedashed box in the top left corner of the Tool Window).ldentify the portion of the picture to be cut. Click anddrag the marquee line from the top left corner to thelower right corner. Use the rulers to ensure that the areaof the picture is the exact size* of the picture on thephysical license. (lf the physical license is not available,measure the license template.) Be sure to center thehead and shoulders as closely as possible to theirposition on the physical license. Press the CONTROLand Xkeys simultaneously to make the cut.*Note: lf it is not possible to select the desired image

and maintain the desired size (i.e., the picture is toolarge or too small), adiust the overall image size usingthe method discussed in Chapter Four, Step 1K.

Step 6Press lhe CONTROL and ffkeys simultaneously for a

new window. Press the CONfROL and V keyssimultaneously to paste the picture image in a newwindow. Save the image by simultaneously pressing theSHlFTand CONTROL and .9keys. Be sure to save it asa Photoshop file (by selecting Photoshop (iPSD, IPDD)

How lo Mqke Driver's Licenses qnd Other lDon Your Home Compuler

42

from the Save As pick box). Close the old windowwithout saving the now valueless image.

Step 7Now it's time to see if the picture is the correct size.

Load the license template into Photoshop. Select Layerfrom the menu bar. Select New from the pull-downmenu. Select Layen Click on the OKbullon. Press theCONTROL and /keys simultaneously. The picture willbe pasted on a new layer of the license. Use the mouseto move the new picture over the existing picture. lf thepicture does not fit perfectly over the existing picture,repeat steps 4 through 7, adjusting the size of thetrimmed picture.

DECISION POINTDoes the new picture obscure any of the license's anti-counterfeiting

measures (seals, signatures, etc.)? lf no, then proceed to step 13. lf yes,then proceed to step 8.

Step 8Close the license template without saving. Load the

picture file created in Step 6.

Step 9The goal is to place the new picture onto the existing

license template without obscuring existing anti-counterfeiting measures, such as state seals, cameranumbers or overlapping the signature. To achieve thisgoal, the picture will need to be trimmed as depicted inthe illustration on the next page.

ChoPter SixAdding the Picture

43

CUT CUTHERE HERE

How lo Moke Driver's Licenses qnd Other lDon Your Home Compuler

44

Step 10confirm that the Tool window is showing. tf not, setect

windowfrom the menu bar. select show Toolsfrom thepull-down menu. The Tool Window will be disptayed.select the Marquee Toollrom the Tool window (it's thedashed box in the top left corner of the Tool window).ldentify the portion of the picture to be cut (use theillustration on the preceding page as a guide). Click anddrag the marquee line from the top left corner to thelower right corner of the identified portion. press theCONTROL and Xkeys simultaneously to make the cut.

Step 11Load the license template into Photoshop. serect

Layer from the menu bar. select New from the puil-down menu. select Layer click on the oKbufion. pressthe CONTROL and V keys simultaneousty. The newpicture will be pasted on a new layer of the ricensetemplate. Use the mouse to move the new picture overthe existing picture. Be sure not to cover any of the anti-counterfeiting measures.

Step 12Now it's time to eliminate the color ditference between

the new picture's background and the license temptate'sold picture. Press the coNTRoL and I keys simut-taneously. The color Balance window will pop up. Makesure the Preurbw box is checked. Adjust the newpicture's reds, blues, and greens in the shadows,midtones, and highlights to make it perfectly match thelicense template's old picture.


45

Step 13Save the image by simultaneously pressing lhe SHIFT

and CONTROL and S keys. Be sure to save it as aPhotoshop file by selecting Photoshop (..PSD, ..PDD)f rom lhe Save,,,4s pick box.

DECISION POINT

Does the license contain a "ghost-imager" of the primary picture?!f not, then proceed to Step 20. lf so, then proceed to Step 14.

Step 14Piess the CONTROL and N keys simultaneously.

Press lhe CONTROL and /keys simultaneously.

Step 15Select tmage from the menu bar. Select lmage Sbe

from the pull-down menu. Adjust the image size usingthe method discussed in Chapter Four, Step 1K.

Step 16Piess the CONTROL and U keys simultaneously.

Confirm that the Preview box is checked. Use theLightnessslider to add light until the picture fades to thecorrect level. Click OK

Step 17Confirm that the Tool Window is showing. lf not, select

Windowfrom the menu bar. Select Show Tools from thepull-down menu. The Tool Window will be displayed.Select lhe Marquee Toot lrom the Tool Window (it's thedashed box in the top left corner of the Tool Window).


46

click and drag the marquee line from the image's top leftcorner to the lower right corner. press the coNTRoLand Xkeys simultaneously to make the cut.

Step 18Load the license template image saved in step 13 into

Photoshop. select Layer from the menu bar. selectNewtrom the pull-down menu. serect Layer click on theOK button. Press the CONTROL and V keyssimultaneously. The new picture will be pasted on a newlayer of the license template. Use the mouse to movethe new picture to the correct location.

Step 19save the image by simultaneousty pressing the sHtFT

and coNTRoL and s keys. Be sure to save it as aPhotoshop file by selecting photoshop (*.pSD, :pDD)from lhe Save Aspick box.

Step 20Load the printer with photo-quarity paper. select Fite

from the menu bar. select print from the pull-downmenu. Click on the oK bufion. This wilt print the license.Step 21

Now it's time to assess the printout. The foltowing is alist of common problems and the ways to correct them.

A. The outline of the New picture ls visible. Return toStep 12 to re-adjust the color balance.

Chopter SixAddrng the Picture

+7

B. One of the Anthcounbrteiling Measures HasBeen Obscured.

DECISION POTNT

Can the picture be trimmed lurther without chopping otf anythingconipicuous such as an gar, hair, or chin? lf yes, then return to Step 9and irim the picture more aggressively. lf no, then the new picture'simage size needs to be scaled down

-

retum to Step 5'

C. Skin Tone Problems.lf the new picture's skin tonesare way off, making the picture look suspect, thereare two oPtions:

Option /,' Press the SHTFT and CONTROL and Ekeyi. This will merge all visible layers, integrating thenew picture and the license template. Press theCONTROL and B keys simultaneously. The ColorBalancewindow witl pop up. Make sure lhe Preuiewboxis checked. Adjust the integrated image's reds, blues,and greens in the shadows, midtones, and highlights tocorrect the skin tone Problems.

DECISION POINT

Have the skin tone colors been corrected without adversely impactingthe rest of the license template's colors? lf yes, then return to step 14' lfno, continue to OPtion 2.

Option 2,' Acquire a background that more closelymatches the color of the license template and return toStep 1.

Chopter SevenLicense Font ldentificotfon

49

Chopter SevenLicense Font ldentificotion

This chapter provides step-by-step instructions forlicense font creation and utilization.

Step 1Select Windowfrom the menu bar. Select Show Tools

from the pull-down menu. The Tool Window will bedisplayed. Select the Type Tool from the Tool Window(it's the large T in the Tool Window).

DECISPN POINTls there a license scan available that contains original personal

information?lf yes, proceed to Step 2. lf no, proceed to Step 9.

Step 2Load a license scan that contains original personal

information.

Step 3Select lmage from the menu bar. Select lmage Size

from the pull-down menu. Enter a Resolution of 1200(pixels/inch) in the Print Size box.


50

Step 4select a word to attempt to dupricate. Adjust the image

size (by zooming in or out) so that the chosen word fillsabout three-quarters of the screen. with the mouse,move the cursor to the appropriate location. Click the leftmouse button. The Type Toolwindow will be displayed.Make sure that the Font box and size box (on - thebottom of the Type Toolwindow) are checked.Step 5

Type in the chosen word. use the Font pick box toselect the font that matches the chosen word. Adjust thefont size by entering integers in the shewindow. whenthe created text matches the text chosen in step 4, clickthe OK button.

Step 6select the Move Toot from the Tool window (it,s the

top right box on the Tool window). with the mouse,move the text created in step 6 direcily over the wordchosen in Step 4.

Step 7Now it's time to assess the text created in step 6. The

following is a list of potential problems and the ways tocorrect them.

A. The characters Are Too Big or Too smalL selectLayer from the menu bar. serect Delete Layer fromthe pull-down menu. This wiil delete the text createdin step 6. Return to step 4. This time decrease orincrease the font size, as necessary.

Chapter SevenLicense Font ldentificotion

51

B. The Spacing Between Chancters ls Wrong. SelectLayer from the menu bar. Select Delete Layer fromthe pull-down menu. This will delete the text createdin Step 6. tf the spacing is too wide, then return toStep 4

-

this time enter a negative number in theSpacingfield. lf the spacing is too narrow, then returnto Step 4

-

this time enter a positive number in theSpacing field.

C. The Font Doesn't Match. Delete the text created inStep 6 by selectin g Layerfrom the menu bar. SelectDelete Layer from the pull-down menu.

DECISION POINTAre there additional fonts available? lf yes, return to Step 4 and try

the other fonts. lf no, proceed to Step 8.

Step 8lf there are no Photoshop standard fonts that match

the license, there are several options:

option l: Get More Fonts: cDs with 2000 fonts areavailable for about $5 at most office supply stores. lf thisoption is selected, install the fonts, then return to Step 4.

Option 2: Use Similar Fonts: Use the closest fontavaitable. lt is unlikely that the average person will noticethe difference

-

especially since the out-of-state licensewill not be particularly familiar to him. lf this option isutilized, be sure to replace all license parameters.Different font faces on the Same license will be very

How to Mcrke Drlver's Llcenses

How to Moke Driver's Licenses ond Olher lDon Your Home Compuler

54

Step 1BLoad the license template. confirm that the Tool

window is showing. lf not, sele ct windowtrom the menubar. select show Tools from the pult-down menu. TheTool window will be displayed. select the Type Tootfrom the Tool window (it's the large T in the ToolWindow).

LOOKING FOR A VALID STREET ADDRESS !N ADIFFERENT STATE?

start at the US Postal service's city/statezip code Associationsweb page at http://www.usps.com/ncsc. Enter the desired city andstate and this page provides the zip code.

continue to Yahoo's mapping web page at http://maps.yahoo.com.Enter a typical street address, like 14 Elm street (welt, maybe notthat obvious). lf Yahoo maps it, then it's valid

-

use it.

Step 1CWith the mouse, move

location. Click the leftappropriate font, font size,Seven) in the Type Toolthe text box. Click OK

BE TRULY ANONYMOUS

when creating licenses, amateurs tend to use their own name onthe counterfeited license

-

this way they'll have back-up lD. Trueanonymity can be a powerful tool. Don't reduce the utility of thecounterfeited license by using any information that may reveat yourtrue identity. Creating back-up lD will be discussed in subsequentchapters.

the cursor to the appropriatemouse button. Select theand alignment (from Chapterbox. Type the desired text in

Chopter EightLicense Persono lizotion

55

Step 1DSelect the Move Tool from the Tool Window (it's the

top right box on the Tool Window). With the mouse,move the text to the appropriate location.

Step 1ERepeat Steps 1C and 1D until all the desired text is

entered. Be sure to use the same spacing, number ofcharacters/numbers and codes as on the originallicense.

Step 1FSave the image by simultaneously pressing the SHIFT

and CONTROL and .9 keys. Be sure to save it as aPhotoshop file by selecting Photoshop (..PSD, ..PDD)from lhe Save Aspick box.

Part Two:The Signature Block

Step 2AMeasure the height and width of the signature block on

the physical license or license template. Multiply theheight and width of the signature block by four. Draw arectangle on a white sheet of paper with the multiplieddimensions. Use a black pen to write your signature inthe signature block.

Step 28Scan or load the signature into the computer using the

software that came with the scanner, using the

How to Mqke Drlver's Llcenses qnd Other lDon Your Home Computer

56

techniques discussed in Chapter Four. Save the imageas a .JPGtile.

Step 2CLoad the signature scan into Photoshop. This is a

pretty easy scan so there shouldn't be any problems. lfthere are, return to Step 28.

Step 2DConfirm that the Tool Window is showing. lf not, select

Wndow from the menu bar. Select Show Tools from thepull-down menu. The Tool Window will be displayed.Select lhe Marquee Tool from the Tool Window (it's thedashed box in the top left corner of the Tool Window).Click and drag the marquee line from the top left cornerto the lower right corner of the signature block. Press theCONTROL and Xkeys simultaneously to make the cut.

Step 2EPress the CONTROL and ff keys simultaneously. A

new window will pop up. Make sure that theTRANSPARENT box is checked. Cltck OK.

Step 2FPress the CONTROL and V keys simultaneously to

paste the image in the new window.

Step 2GSelect the Magic Wand Tool from the Tool Window.

Click the cursor on the signature image. Photoshop willfind the edges of the signature image and outline themwith a dashed line. Press the CONTROL and Xkeys tocut the background away from the signature image.

Chapter EightLicense Person a/2a tion

57

Step 2HContinue to click the magic wand on the signature and

cut the background away until all the coloredbackground is deleted and the signature sits on atransparent background. Zoom in on various parts of thesignature by pressing the CONTROL and + keyssimultaneously. Reconfirm that all of the originalbackground has been deleted.

Step 2lSelect lmage from the menu bar. Select lmage Size

from the pull-down menu. After ensuring that theConstrain Proportions box is selected, enter lhe Width otthe physical lDs signature block into the Print Size box.Photoshop will automatically calculate the height of theimage and put the value in the Width section of the PrintSize box. Make sure that Photoshop's calculation andthe physical measurement of the lDs height are within0.1 inches of each other

-


Step 2JSelect the Marquee Tool from the Tool Window (it's

the dashed box in the top left corner of the ToolWindow). Click and drag the marquee line from the topleft corner to the lower right corner of the signatureblock. Press lhe CONTROL and Xkeys simultaneouslyto make the cut.

Step 2KLoad the license template into Photoshop. Press the

CONTROL and V keys simultaneously. This will pastethe signature on the license template.


58

Step 2LSelect the Move Tool from the Tool Window (it's the

top right box on the Tool Window). With the mouse,move the signature block to the appropriate location.

Step 2MSave the image by simultaneously pressing lhe SH|FT

and CONTROL and S keys. Be sure to save it as aPhotoshop file by selecting Photoshop (*.PSD, -.PDD)from lhe Save,4s pick box. Close the old window withoutsaving the now valueless image.

Chopter NineHolograms

59

Chopter NineHologrqms

This chapter discusses several options for dealing withholograms.

option l: Leave the Hologram off: Unless you areunderaged and trying to get into a bar, out-of-state lDsare usually just as effective without the hologram.People just don't know what the out-of-state lD issupposed to look like. lf the lD looks legitimate, with orwiilrout a hologram, it is very likely to be accepted.

Option 2: Purchase a Hologram: An official-lookingeagie-seal hologram can be purchased. athtt[://www.nic-inc.com for a couple of dollars. No, it's notthe seal that's supposed to be on the lD but it is a verygood-looking hologram and will add an air of legitimacyto the lD.

option 3: Take the Hotogram From a Real lD: lt youhav-e the good fortune of possessing an official versionof the lD you are counterfeiting, the following method isoften effective:


60

Buy some acetone at any hardware store.Pour the acetone into a small container and place thereal lD into it. (The acetone eats the glue awayallowing the lD to separate easily.)

. Peel the hologram off the real license and place it onthe fake license.

Note: This method will obviously destroy the real lD.

Option 4: ALPS MD-Series Printers: ALPS manu-factures printers that are capable of printing in blue,magenta, silver and gold metallic ink. The MD-1300costs about $3SO and is quite capable of printing apassable simulated hologram.

Chopter TenLicense Structure

6l

Chqpter TenLicense Structure

Before proceeding to license printing, cutting andlaminating, it is important to understand the three typesof license structures. Each structure is treated differentlyin subsequent chaPters.

Structure One -

Simple Lamination: ln StructureOne, the information card is surrounded by a laminationpouch. Chapter Eleven provides detailed instructions forprinting, cutting and laminating a "structure One"license.

LAMINATION(sEE-THROUGH)

FRONTVIEW

EDGEVIEW

INFORMAMONCARD

LAMINATION

INFORMATIONCARD

How to Moke Drlver's Llcenses

Chopter ElevenPrinting, Cutting, ond Lominating

Strucfure One Licenses65

Chopter ElevenPrinting, Cutting, ond

Lqminoting Structure OneLicenses

This chapter provides step-by-step instructions forcompleting the Structure One license.

Required Materials

The following materials are required for the completionof this chapter:o ? 10-miltimeter lamination pouch (with or without a

magnetic strip)o o Teslin card. cdld laminator. photo-quality PaPer. Elmer's Mucilage glue.

ro Exacto knife, cutting board, and metal-edged ruler. 600-9rit sandpapero on! credit card or phone card with rounded edges


66

Step 1Load the front and back of the license template into

Photoshop.

ChoPter ElevenPrinting, Cutting, ond Lominoting

Structure One Licenses67


from the pull-down menu. Confirm that the Resolution tsset to 1200 (pixels/inch).

Step 3Press the SHTFT and CONTROL and P keys

simultaneously. Select Properties. (This will vary basedon the printer so it will not be covered here

-

consultthe printer's owner's manual.)

Step 4Load the printer with photo-quality paper. Press the

CONTROL and Pkeys simuttaneously. Click on the OKbutton. This will print the license.

How to Mqke Driver's Llcenses qnd Other lDon Your Home Computer

6B

Step 5Although the license printout should be perfect at this

point, quickly check the quality as discussed in chapterFour, Step 11.

Step 6Lay the license printout on the cutting board. Use the

ruler and the Exacto knife to cut out the iront and back ofthe license. The rounded corners of a credit card orphone card can be used as an aid for cutting therounded corners.

Chopter ElevenPrinting, Cutting, ond Laminoting


HAVING TROUBLE MAKING THE CORNERSLOOK GOOD?

A comer-rounder can be purchased at the local camera shop.For about $40, it ensures that the corners are pedect every time'

How to Mqke Driver's Llcenses qnd Other lDon Your Home Computer

70

Step 7Paste the front of the license to the Teslin card using

Elmer's Mucilage glue. wait two minutes for the glue toset.

Chopter ElevenPrinting, Cutting, ond Lominoting


Step 9Paste the back of the license to the Teslin card using

Elmer's Mucilage glue. Wait two minutes for the glue toset.

Step 10Slip the lamination pouch over the license make

sure that the license is centered. lnsert the license intothe lamination sleeve. After the laminator heats up, runthe lamination sleeve or card through the laminator threetimes. Remove the card and set it aside for a minute ortwo.

Step 8Use the ruler

card to size. Acorners can becorners.

and the Exacto knife to cut the Teslincredit card or phone card with roundedused as an aid for cutting the rounded

How to Mqke Driver's Licenses qnd other rDon Your Home Computer

72

Chopter ElevenPrinting, Cutting, ond Lominoting


Step 11Now it's time to assess the lamination. The following is

a list of potential problems and the ways to correct them:

A. The License ls Not Centered in the LaminationPouch. There's no way to fix this problem withoutcompromising the license. Return to Step 1. (Next timemake sure the information card is centered beforerunning it through the laminator.)

B. The License Lamination Pouch ls Bubbly. Tryrunning the license through the laminator a few moretimes. lf this doesn't work, then there's no way to fixthis problem without compromising the license. Returnto Step 1.

C. The Edge of the Lamination Pouch ls Separated.The laminator may not have been hot enough duringthe original lamination. Reconfirm that the laminator isat the proper temperature, then run the license throughthe laminator a few more times. lf this doesn't fix theproblem, return to Step 1.

Step 12Allow the license to cool off for five minutes. Sand the

edge of the lamination with 600-grit sandpaper until theedges are completely smooth.

Step 13Lightly sand the front and back of the license with 600-

grit sandpaper to give it that "lived-in" look. Don't sand ittoo much

-

just rub it enough to take the shine off.

ChopterTwelvePrinting, Cutting, ond Lominoting

Structure Two Licenses75

Chapter TwelvePrinting, Cutting, and

Laminating Structure TwoLicenses

This chapter provides step-by-step instructions forcompleting the Structure Two license.

Required Materials

The following materials are required for the completionof this chapter:o ? 10-millimeter lamination pouch (with or without a

magnetic striP)o o Teslin card. card laminator. photo-qualitY PaPer. Elmer's Mucilage glue. or Exacto knife, cutting board, and metal-edged ruler

. 600-9rit sandPaPer

. ofl! credit card or phone card with rounded edges

How to Mqke Drlver's Llcenses ond Other lDon Your Home Computer

76

Step 1Load the front and back of the license template into

Photoshop.


from the pull-down menu. Confirm that the Resolution tsset to 1200 (pixels/inch).

Step 3Press the SHIFT and CONTROL and p keys

simultaneously. Select Properties. Configure the printerto print on photo-quality glossy paper at the maximum

ChoPterTwelvePrinting, Cutting, ond Lominoting


resolution (this will vary based on the printer so it will notbe covered here consult the printer's owner'Smanual).

Step 4L6ad the printer with photo-quality paper. Press the

CONTROL and P keys simultaneously. Click on the OKbutton. This will print the license.

Step 5Ritnough the license printout should be perfect at this

point, quickly check the quality as discussed in ChapterFour, Step 11.

How to Mqke Drlver's Llcenses qnd other lDon Your Home Computer

7B


ruler and the Exacto knife to cut the front of the licenseout. Remember that in structure Two licenses, the frontinformation card is centered on the Teslin card. Therounded corners of a credit card or phone card can beused as an aid for cutting the rounded corners.

ChopterTwelvePrinting, Cutting, ond Lominoting


HAVING TROUBLE MAKING THE CORNERS LOOK GOOD?

A comer-rounder can be purchased at the local camera shop. Forabout $40, it ensures that the corners are perfect every time.


ruler and the Exacto knife to cut the back of the licenseout. Remember that in Structure Two licenses, the backinformation card covers the entire Teslin card. Therounded corners of a credit card or phone card can beused as an aid for cutting the rounded corners.

Step 8Paste the front of the license to the Teslin card using

Elmer's Mucilage glue. Wait two minutes for the glue toset.wr N\\,N$\N\\N\NN

How to Moke Drlver's llcenses

How to Mqke Drlver's Llcenses ond Other lDon Your Home Computer

82

at the proper temperature, then run the ricense throughthe laminator a few more times. rf this doesn't fix theproblem, return to Step 1.

Step 12Allow the license to cool off for ten minutes. sand the

edge of the lamination with 600-grit sandpaper until theedges are completely smooth.

Step 13Lightly sand the front and back of the license to give it

that "lived-in" look. Don't sand it too much -

just lub itenough to take the shine off.

ChopterThirteenPrinting, Cutting ond Lominoting

Sfructu re Three LicensesB3

Chapter ThirteenPrintihg, Cutting, andLaminating Structure

Three LicensesThis chapter provides step-by-step instructions for

completing the Structure Three license.

Required MaterialsThe following materials are required for the completion

of this chapter:o o S-millimeter lamination pouch (with or without a

magnetic striP). two Teslin cards. cord laminator. Elmer's Mucilage glue. dn Exacto knife, cutting board, and metal-edged ruler. 600-grit sandPaper. ahy credit card or phone card with rounded edges

Step 1Load the front of the license template into Photoshop.


84

Step 2Select lmage from the menu bar. select lmage size

from the pull-down menu. Confirm that rhe Resotution isset to 1200 (pixels/inch).

Step 3Press the SHIFT and CONTROL and p keys

simultaneously. Select Properties. Configure the printerto print on photo-quality glossy film at the maximumresolution. (This will vary based on the printer so it willnot be covered here consult the printer's owner'smanual.)

Step 4Load the printer with reslin. Press the coNTRoL and

Pkeys simultaneously. click on the oKbufion. This willprint the front of the license.

ChopterThirteenPrinting, Cutting ond Lominoting

Structu re Three Licenses85

Note: Lining up the Teslin can be difficult. A little bit ofpatience helPs here.

IS THE PRINTOUT ALIGNED CORRECTLY?

Examine the card. lf the image is not perfectly aligned on the Teslincard, discard the Teslin and return to Step 4.

Step 5Wait two minutes for the ink to dry. Carefully remove

the Teslin card from the paper. Make sure not to touchthe ink

-

it may smear. Set the card aside.

Step 6Load the back of the license template into Photoshop.


B6

Step 7Load the printer with Teslin. Press the CONTROL and

Pkeys simultaneously. Click on the oKbuffon. This willprint the back of the license.

IS THE PRINTOUT ALIGNED CORRECTLY?

Examine the card. lf the image is not perfectly aligned on the Teslincard, discard the Teslin and return to Step 7.

Step IWait two minutes for the ink to dry. Carefully remove

the Teslin card from the paper. Make sure not to touchthe ink

-

it may smear.

Step 9Glue the two Teslin cards together using Elmer's

Mucilage glue. Make sure that the front and the backhave the same orientation. Also minimize touching thecards

-

the ink may smear.

Chopter ThirteenPrinting, Cutting ond Lominoting

Structu re Three Licenses87

Step 10Slip the lamination pouch over the license, making

sure that the license is centered. lnsert the license intothe tamination steeve. Run the lamination sleeve andcard through the laminator three times. Remove the cardand set it aside for a minute or two.


BB

Step 11Now it's time to assess the lamination. The following is

a list of potential problems and the ways to correct them:

A. The License ls Not Centered in the LaminationPouch. There's no way to fix this problem withoutcompromising the license. Return to Step 1. Next timemake sure the information card is centered beforerunning it through the laminator.

B. The License Lamination Pouch ls Bubbly. Tryrunning the license through the laminator a few moretimes. lf this doesn't work, then there's no way to fixthis problem without compromising the license. Returnto Step 1.

C. The Edge of the Lamination Pouch ls Separated.The laminator may not have been hot enough duringthe original lamination. Reconfirm that the laminator isat the proper temperature, then run the license throughthe laminator a few more times. lf this doesn't fix theproblem, return to Step 1.

D. The Lamination Pouch ls Visible Beyond the Edgeof the Teslin. Use the Exacto knife and ruler to trimany excess lamination. Structure Three licensesshould have no lamination overlapping the Teslinedges.

Chopter ThirteenPrinting, Cutting ond Laminating

Structu re Three LicensesB9

Step 12nitow the license to cool off for ten minutes. Sand the

edge of the lamination with 600-grit sandpaper until theedges are comPletelY smooth.

iiit,

trli',iil:, i


90

Step 13Lightly sand the front and back of the license to give it

that "lived-in" look. Don't sand it too much, just rub it afew times to take the shine off.

Chapter FourteenBock-uP lD

91

Chopter FourfeenBqck-up lD

When using out-of-state lD, a back-up lD is essential.lf the person lssessing the lD is unsure of its validity, hewill ask for a back-up. Back-up lDs can be eaptlVmanufactured using the techniques discussed in fhisbook. The back-up lD required depends highly on( theuser's age and exPected lD use. \,,

How lo Moke Driver's Licenses qnd Olher lDon Your Home Computer

92

HOW ABOUT A LIBRARY CARD AS A BACK.UP ID?lf you're thinking of acquiring a library card, don't. lt is common

knowledge that anyone can get a library card in any name. Flashing alibrary card at someone when they ask for a back-up lD is more likely tohurt your credibility than help it.

Under 21For people who are under 21 and just trying tg get into

a bar, a college lD will do the trick. There are manycollege-lD templates available on the Web or you canjust completely make it up. College lDs are almostalways of exceedingly poor quality and are very easy tomake.

Privacy SeekersFor people interested in protecting personal privacy,

an employee lD is an excellent choice.The employee lD should contain the following details:Company logo: Go to any company's Web site anddownload a few of their symbols. Don't make itanything too well known or it might raise questions.Your picture: Don't use the same picture that's on thelicense. Consider using a different color backgroundfor variety. lf possible wear dress clothes.Name.

Employee number: Just make up at least six alpha-numeric characters.

Chopter FourteenBock-ur,l,

Puchase an alligator clip and lD holder to house thetD.

One More Can't HurtA third lD will provide additional comfort. A Blockbuster

Video card is easily reproducible and easily recognizableby the person assessing the lD. lf the person checking isstil! on the edge after seeing the first two lDs, the familiaf,'Blockbuster card will almost always sway him.

,

. Lamination with a magnetic stripe pouch.

Chopter FifteenEvoluoting the Co mpleted License:

Is It Good Enough?95

Chqpter FifteenEvqluoting the

Completed License: ls lt/-'

This chapter discusses evaluation of thelicense.*

ompleted

Step 1Use the Test Form on the following two pqges

confirm that the lD is perfect before you take \e"public."

* Note: Tests and assessments performed in ChaptersOne through Fourteen will not be repeated here.

Good Enough?

toID

l-*


96

Test Form

Chopter FifteenEvaluoting the Completed License:

ls lf Good Enough?97

Test Form(Continued)

Procedure Expected Result Pass/Fall?

What to do lf ltlalls

Twist the lD.

Verify that the lD:. "bounces bacK

to its originalposition

o doesn't make acrackling ncise

o dosn't delami-nate

The lD bouncesbrck to its originalpcitim.

The lD doesn't makea crrckling nclise.

The lD doesn't de'laminate.

Discard the lD andrdurn to ChapterNine.

Examine the lami-nation cwering thefront and back ofthe lD.

Verify that thelaminate is nc[burned, melted,discdored, or bub-bly.

The laminate is nc[bumed, melted, dis-colored, or bubbly.

Discard the lD andreturn to ChapterNine.

Step 2Find a liquor store near a college where everyone gets

carded. Look for a store wath a "wal! of shame" (a placewhere confiscated fake lDs are posted, usually behindthe counter). lf there is a "wall of shame," clerks takepride in confiscating questionable lDs and are very goodat detecting them.

Buy a case or two of the cheapest beer in the store;this is a typical underage move. When the clerk asks forlD, present the fake lD. lf he accepts the fake lD, anyone

Procedure Expected Result Pass/Fall?

What to dolf lt falls

Closely examinethe edges of the lD.

Make sure thereare no gaps b+tween the lami-nated layers.

There are no gapsbetween the lami-nated layers.

Run the lD throughthe laminator a fewmore times. Reas-sess.

Rub a linger alongall four edges aridcorners, make surethey are smooth.

All lour edges andcorners are smooth.

Sand the edges andcorners smooth with600-9rit sandpaper.

Hold the lD at theleft and rightedges. Bend the lDso that the centerdellects about aninch, lirst in one di-rection then in theother.

Verify that the lD:r "bounces bacK

to its originalposition

o doesn't make acrackling noise

o doesn't delami-nate

The tDback to itspcition.

bouncesoriginal

The lD doesn't makea crackling noise.

The lD doesn't d+laminate.

Discard the lD andretum to ChapterNine.

How to Mqke Drlver's Llcenses qnd Other lDon Your Home Computer

9B

will. Usually if he identifies it as fake, he'll just take itaway. Don't shop at a liquor store if there is a police offi-cer posted at the door.

Chopter SirteenUsing the License lntelligentlY

Chopter SixteenUsing the Ll,cense

lntellig(ntlyNever mix legitimate and Fk. lDs in the samewallet. \Never present the lD to a sta'te-olgoyefnmentofficial.Never present the lD to anyone if a state orgovernment official is nearbY.Never sell fake lDs or manufacture them for friends.Never get confrontational with someone if theyrefuse the lD. Simply thank them, take the lD (ifpossible) and walk away.Never carry the fake lD unless you're going to useit.

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7. Always know everything about the identity you'vecreated. Besides memorizing all of the informationon the lD, make sure You know:. a little about the state/town on the lD

-

especiallyif you're from a well-known city, such as SanFrancisco, California, or an exotic place, likeAlaska

o lour astrological sign it's a common bouncerquestion

How to Mqke Driver's Licenses qnd Other lDon Your Home Compuler

100

. why you're in town -

people may ask when theysee your out-of-state license

8. Always hide the fake lD when not in use.

Appendix A

10r

I

IIil,l

I

i

i

i

I

I

ISSVE TSSI-mAsls YrtAll$

TYFS TOSL

FORESRBTIINS,EASKSX$U[*SesLss

tnPendix A

Photoshop Tool Menu

HARQUEE TOOL@

How lo Mqke Driver's Licenses ond Oiher lDon Your Home Compuler

102

Photoshop Color Balance Menu

B rig htness/Contrast Wi ndow

Appendix A

r03

lmage Size Window

Photoshop TyPe Tool Window


104

Photoshop Rotate Canvas Window

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Documents

chapter fivegetting

chapter fifteenevaluating

chapter threeacquiring

chapter fourscanning

chapter elevenprinting

chapter sixadding

chapter nineholograms

chapter twelveprinting