To ID or NOT to ID? That is the question...

[HmBrdIn]

I was attending a presentation of a new booking/registration system and during the demo, they had a section that has an "online self-pre-checkin" system. Part of the system allows the user to upload a copy of their Driver's License and/or Passport. It seemed like that provided because part of a standard check-in would be to collect some form of government issued ID.

I know that every hotel I've ever checked into does ask this. However, at my B&B I've never asked for this and it gave me pause and wondering if this is something I should be doing? Occasionally a guest checking in will offer me their ID at check-in and I just say it's not needed.

So I'm wondering if others are collecting ID? If so, why? Trying to determine if this is something I need or should start doing. I have been open for 7 years and never did, but if there's a good reason I should be, changing that policy wouldn't be a problem.

 

[FrontDesk]

I just came across this post and I think in this day and age it would be smart to have ID. What happens if a room gets trashed and they run. If you don't have ID, you'd not have proof of whom to contact for damages. You may have a credit card on file, but does it match the name they put in the registration. With a DL you'd at least have some proof that the photo, name and credit card match.

In my opinion, you are lucky that you have not had an issue before this.

 

[Conductor Cyndi]

I've been doing this for 16 years and we don't ask for ID and we have not had a problem other than the one guest that paid cash and smoked pot in the room. No property damage other than cleaning and airing out the room. I recommend getting a card on file for all reservations and an ID for cash customers.

 

[marj]

Today I just asked my booking company to drop the pic with photo ID because of the area I'm in (very quiet, very safe - and I hope it stays as much). I hosted Airbnb in the past and had some REAL ISSUES, even with having the DL's but it was near a city. Not sure, could have been a murder at one for all I know!!! (new ropes in a cabinet, had contracted a garbage pick up while staying, carpet cleaner purchased. Maybe I watch too much CSI). BTW - if you are not familiar, air will not do a thing for you as the owner, they always side with the guest. I think it totally matters where you are hosting.

 

[gillumhouse]

I have been open since I started my B & B in 1996 and have had only 2 that I remember vividly- one was cigar drool on a pillowcase (took 3 tries with Murphy's Oil Soap to get out) and that was frustration (it was a freebie) and the other was a cancelation on arrival that decided to stay that night since I was charging him for it (never mind that I was letting him off on the other 2 nights). By the time he was done, no damage, just wet towels on bed & used everything possible to use in the room.

I have never bothered to take ID - BUT I also do not have a revolving door as a tourist mecca and am not close to mega-cities.