DIY Guide: Make Your Custom Novelty ID for Any Occasion

Whether you're throwing a themed party, planning a hilarious skit, or just want to become the “Chief Burrito Analyst” for the night, a custom novelty ID is your ultimate ticket to fun. With a little creativity and the right tools, you can design an ID that turns heads, sparks conversations, and earns you honorary status as the life of the party.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating your novelty IDShop—from concept to print—without needing a design degree or special equipment.

Step 1: Choose Your Alter Ego

Start with the most important part: your character.

Ask yourself:

●Who do you want to become?

●What ridiculous job title would make people laugh?

●Would this alter ego show up at a bachelorette party, alien embassy, or karaoke competition?

Examples:

●Director of Confetti Deployment

●Freelance Moonwalker

●Certified Avocado Inspector

●Emotional Support Vampire

The more unexpected, the better. Let your imagination run wild.

Step 2: Gather Your “Official” Info

Now that you’ve chosen your persona, it’s time to fill out your fake credentials.

Include things like:

●Name (real or ridiculous—your choice!)

●Fake issuing agency (Ministry of Mayhem? Department of Pizza Security?)

●Title or role

●Skills and specialties (e.g., “Expert in Late-Night Snack Logistics”)

●“License issued” and “expiration” dates that align with the event or holiday

Have fun layering in absurdity. Think of it as a personality resume, not just an ID.

Step 3: Choose a Photo That Sells the Bit

The photo is everything. It's your ID’s first impression, so make it count.

Options:

●A serious passport-style photo in a ridiculous outfit

●Mid-blink or dramatic selfie

●Party pic with sunglasses, glitter, or a boa

●A photo with a deadpan expression + over-the-top costume = comedy gold

Pro tip: Use props! A clipboard, headset, or disco ball makes the whole thing pop.

Step 4: Design the ID

You don’t need fancy software—just a little structure.

Tools to use:

●Canva (free templates, easy editing)

●Adobe Express

●Microsoft PowerPoint or Google Slides

●Or go to IDpapa blogs for pre-designed, printable novelty ID templates

Design tips:

●Use official-looking fonts and layout

●Add a fake hologram or barcode

●Throw in a seal from your fake organization

●Use colors or borders that make it pop on screen or paper

Step 5: Print and Laminate (Optional, But Epic)

Once your ID is ready:

●Print it on thick paper or card stock

●Laminate it for that “real” ID feel

●Stick it in a lanyard or badge holder

●Bonus: Create a set for a group or party theme!

You can even make digital versions for TikTok skits or Zoom backgrounds.

Step 6: Show It Off!

You didn’t just make this ID to keep it in your pocket. Flash it proudly during:

●Bachelor's/bachelorette parties

●Office retreats

●TikTok skits

●Halloween

●Game nights or escape rooms

●Comedy shows or improv nights

The more you commit to the character, the funnier it gets.

Final Thoughts: You’re Officially Ridiculous (And That’s Perfect)

Making a novelty ID is about embracing absurdity and sharing laughs. It’s not just a prop—it’s a personality. And with platforms like IDpapa offering templates and ideas, you can go from