Bars and nightclubs are under increasing pressure to create safe environments, prevent underage entry, and protect their liquor licenses. ID scanners have become an essential part of nightlife operations, but simply buying a device isn’t enough. Many venues fail to realize the full potential of their investment because of a few common mistakes during implementation.
If you’re considering adding ID scanners to your venue—or looking to optimize the ones you already have—here are the pitfalls you should avoid, and easy changes you can make today to get the most out of your system.
Mistake #1: Treating ID Scanners as a “One and Done” Purchase
One of the biggest misconceptions is assuming all ID scanners are the same. Some venues buy the cheapest option without considering whether it can actually detect sophisticated fake IDs or integrate with their existing security protocols. Fake IDs are constantly evolving and are increasingly sophisticated. Understanding the number of IDs that are recognized, and how your partner keeps their systems at the cutting edge is an important consideration as you select a provider.
What to do instead: Invest in a solution that can recognize thousands of ID types from around the world, provides regular software updates, and evolves with new fraud techniques. At Patronscan, our system recognizes nearly 5,000 different ID types and is backed by nearly 20 years of expertise in catching fake IDs.
Learn how fake IDs are becoming harder to spot—and what venues can do about it.
Mistake #2: Failing to Train Staff Properly
Even the most advanced ID scanner is only as effective as the staff using it. A common error is giving security teams no training beyond “scan the ID.” Without proper onboarding, staff might ignore alerts, mishandle patron interactions, or bypass the scanner altogether during peak hours.
What to do instead: Provide hands-on training and create standard operating procedures. In the case of ID Scanners, ask about training programs and ongoing support for your system. For onsite training, clear staff guidelines not only improve consistency but also reduce liability when issues arise. A bonus tip would be to work closely with your provider, together you will get the most out of your investment.
Mistake #3: Ignoring Privacy Concerns
Today’s customers care about how their data is handled. Venues that fail to communicate the purpose of ID scanning—or worse, don’t choose a provider that complies with privacy standards—risk damaging trust with their patrons.
What to do instead: Select an ID scanner vendor that is transparent about privacy protections, secure data storage, and compliance with local regulations. Patronscan, for example, has built its reputation on privacy-first ID verification while still giving venues the tools they need to protect their business.
Explore how ID verification supports safe nightlife while protecting patron privacy.
Mistake #4: Not Leveraging the Full Capabilities of the Scanner
Too often, venues use scanners solely for age verification. While this is important, they miss out on features that can help reduce liability, track problem guests, and enhance customer experience.
Modern ID scanners can:
What to do instead: Unlock the full value of your ID scanner by using its reporting, guest management, and security features—not just the basics.
Mistake #5: Choosing a Vendor That Promises Everything
Some companies in the ID validation space oversell their capabilities or disparage competitors rather than proving results. Venues that buy into hype often end up frustrated when their ID Scanner fails to perform as advertised.
What to do instead: Ask for demonstrations, talk to current clients, ask about their Customer Success team, and select a vendor with a track record of reliability in bars, nightclubs, and high-volume venues. Patronscan has been relentlessly focused on making communities safer and helping nightlife operators run smoother for nearly two decades.
Read how the rise of fake IDs is shaping the nightlife industry.
Final Thoughts
Implementing ID scanners in bars and nightclubs is one of the most effective ways to prevent underage entry, reduce liability, and improve patron safety. But success depends on choosing the right solution, training your staff, and making full use of the technology.
At Patronscan, we’ve helped thousands of venues around the world protect their licenses and create safer communities with advanced ID verification technology.
Ready to see how Patronscan can help your venue?