What is the difference between a PVC and a Polycarbonate novelty ID?

Polycarbonate novelty IDs are multi-layered thermoplastic cards that clink like metal when dropped and allow for laser engraving, unlike standard PVC. A PVC card is essentially a single layer of plastic with ink printed on the surface, which makes it prone to peeling, cracking, and fading over time. In contrast, a polycarbonate card is constructed from multiple layers that are fused together under high heat and pressure, creating a monolithic structure. Polycarbonate is the choice for 2026 security standards because it supports laser marking, where the data is burned into the core of the card. This makes the information impossible to alter. Furthermore, polycarbonate cards have a much longer lifespan and do not warp when kept in a warm wallet. If you want a card that looks, feels, and sounds like a modern government-issued ID, you must choose a polycarbonate option over the outdated PVC versions.