TCA 39-14-136
Falsifying of educational and academic documents
MISDEMEANOR AClass A Misdemeanor
Sentence enhancement may apply
What does this charge mean?
This statute makes it illegal to buy, sell, create, alter, or obtain a fake diploma, academic record, certificate, or similar document that falsely shows educational achievement—with intent to use it fraudulently or allow someone else to use it to misrepresent their qualifications. A conviction is a Class A misdemeanor punishable by up to 11 months and 29 days in jail and/or a fine up to $2,500.
Penalty Details
ClassificationClass A Misdemeanor
Maximum Jail11 months 29 days
Maximum Fine$2,500
Penalty SummaryClass A misdemeanor; 11 months 29 days; fine up to $2,500
(a) A person commits the offense of falsifying educational and academic documents who buys, sells, creates, duplicates, alters, gives or obtains a diploma, academic record, certificate of enrollment or other instrument which purports to signify merit or achievement conferred by an institution of education with the intent to use fraudulently that document or to allow the fraudulent use of the document. (b) A violation of this section is a Class A misdemeanor.
View on official sourceLast verified: Feb 25, 2026
Quick Facts
MISDEMEANOR A
TCA Section39-14-136
Max Jail11 months 29 days
Max Fine$2,500