<p>It is VERY common. When my kid moved into Penn, every single person on his dorm floor had a fake ID and they were comparing them. The ease of using them varies from place t place. At Penn State, they use the electronic readers and it is very hard to get away with a fake ID and stupid to try. Around Penn, it is easy and no one cares.</p>
<p>In parts of NJ (Ocean County etc) it is a huge money-maker for the local governments. They WILL charge you with a felony. Legal fees are around $5K. You get off with probation and have to do community service and then get your record expunged (more $$). Other areas are similar. Many athletic recruits are sold fake IDs on their recruiting trips. It’s quite a business.</p>