When hearing the words 'fake ID,' most people have thoughts of teenagers using IDs in order to get into clubs and bars or to purchase alcohol or cigarettes. Or, it conjures up images of thieves trying to steal someone's identity or trying to access some sort of top secret area. In reality, most people purchase fake IDs for perfectly legal and legitimate reasons.

One reason some people purchase fake IDs is to play practical jokes on friends or family members. In order to pull off a great practical joke, you have to convince the target that the story you have made up is true. There is no better way to do the convincing than to present a fake ID that "verifies" the story.

Other people use fake IDs as a fun way to break the ice with someone new. What better way is there to start a conversation with someone at a bar than to flash your fake ID claiming you are a secret agent or a race car driver? Of course, if you hope to develop a relationship with the person, you will need to be honest about the fact that you aren't really a professional stuntman or whatever else you claim to be with your fake ID. Nonetheless, it makes for a great conversation starter - and, the person you are trying to pick up will probably be interested in learning more about how you got such a great looking fake ID!

Actors and other entertainers also use fake IDs in order to make their roles more convincing. A performer that delivers strip teases, for example, can knock on someone's door claiming to be an investigator, nurse, police officer, or other fantasy profession. Then, he or she can suddenly start the music and put on a great show. Similarly, actors that lend a hand with practical jokes or other fun activities can use their fake ID to temporarily convince those that are not in on the joke that they are someone they are not.

Of course, fake IDs can be just silly as well. They don't have to be used to purposely try to temporarily trick someone but can be obviously fictitious instead. A fake ID identifying you as Spiderman or some other fantastical being can bring about a good laugh for you and your friends.