Originally Posted by exerda
Like you, I very rarely have had to show ID at hotels; I think this used to be a bit more prevalent than it is today. Now all they want is a credit card imprint. Heck, I've gotten the government rate when traveling for business before without even having to show my company badge or any other proof I was on government business
Yeah, my last 3 stays (all foreign BTW) never required me to show my government ID.
Nice thing to is that Hilton chains will usually let you stay on government rates for leisure travel as well. Called them up and asked and they said no problem.
But I do see a lot more ID checking today in stores for things I'd have never imagined before. I've been ID'd buying Claratin and Tylenol Sinus, apparently because Big Brother thinks I have the potential to be a meth lab runner. Some states have taken this so far as to start requiring you to receive some kind of counseling from a pharmacist, show ID, and sign papers before they'll let you buy cold pills. :rolleye: And don't get me started on the movie theaters that have started the "we ID everyone" policies for R-rated movies. I'm sick of having to show ID for stupid stuff like that.
Having been the victim of identity theft a few years back, I don't necessarily mind showing my ID for credit card purchases. I'm glad they ask for that, as cleaning up that mess is something I'd rather not have to do again.
Most places don't because they still get their money anyway even if it is a fraudulent sale. The banks eat it.
Haven't seen the cold pills though ... are these for non-Rx? I've seen the "over 18?" thing pop up on the checkout screen at Walmart for buying stuff like Dexatrim and other ephedrine-type supplements. We've never been carded for it though ... they just look at us and just hit yes.