a police officer's questions, but you must show your driver's license and registration when stopped in a car. In other situations, you can't legally be arrested for refusing to
identify yourself to a police officer.
You don't have to consent to any search of yourself, your car or your
house. If you DO consent to a search, it can affect your rights later
in court. If the police say they have a search warrant, ASK TO
SEE IT.
IF YOU ARE STOPPED FOR QUESTIONING
- It's not a crime to
refuse to answer questions, but refusing to answer can make the
police suspicious about you. You can't be arrested merely for
refusing to identify yourself on the street.
- Police may "pat-down"
your clothing if they suspect a concealed weapon. Don't physically
resist, but make it clear that you don't consent to any further
search.
- Ask if you are under
arrest. If you are, you have a right to know why.
- Don't bad-mouth the
police officer or run away, even if you believe what is happening
is unreasonable. That could lead to your arrest.
 IF YOU'RE STOPPED IN YOUR CAR
- Upon request, show
them your driver's license, registration, and proof of insurance.
In certain cases, your car can be searched without a warrant
as long as the police have probable cause. To protect yourself
later, you should make it clear that you do not consent to a search.
It is not lawful for police to arrest you simply for refusing
to consent to a search.»»
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