Being pulled over is stressful. The handbook explains exactly what to do so the stop stays safe for you and the officer, and what rights you keep during it.
During a law enforcement stop:
- Turn on your right turn signal to show you see the officer
- Move completely onto the right shoulder, even if you're in the carpool/HOV lane
- Stop in a well-lit area when possible and turn off your radio
- Roll down your window after stopping, before the officer reaches you
- Stay inside unless the officer directs you to get out
- Driver and passengers keep hands in clear view
Know the rule
Officers must state the reason for a stop before questioning related to a criminal investigation or traffic violation, unless withholding it is necessary to protect life or property from imminent threat.
Handbook p. 35 ↗Know the rule
The reason for the stop must be documented on the traffic citation (ticket) or the law enforcement report.
Handbook p. 35 ↗Know the rule
The driver must produce a driver's license, proof of insurance, and vehicle registration. If not produced, officers may conduct a limited search for them.
Handbook p. 36 ↗Know the rule
You may decline a request to search your vehicle, and should clearly say so, but you may not resist or obstruct if the officer searches anyway under legal authority.
Handbook p. 36 ↗Know the rule
Passengers may decline to identify themselves, but under some circumstances may be required to. They should not interfere with the officer.
Handbook p. 36 ↗Know the rule
An officer can legally require the driver and all passengers to exit or stay inside the vehicle. You must comply.
Handbook p. 36 ↗Know the rule
In California, only federal officers can ask about immigration status. State and local officers may not ask, and you can decline to answer.
Handbook p. 36 ↗Recording and your phone:
- The First Amendment generally protects recording police in public; say right away that you're recording
- Do not reach into concealed areas for a recording device without permission
- An officer cannot take, delete, or destroy your recording just because you are recording
- You may generally refuse to unlock your phone or give its password (e.g., parole may differ)
Know the rule
Even if you believe your rights were violated, do not physically resist. You can voice your objection and later file a complaint, which the agency must investigate.
Handbook p. 37 ↗Know the rule
It is against the law for any government employee to retaliate against you for recording in public or filing a complaint.
Handbook p. 37 ↗Traffic citation
Also known as a ticket: an official summons issued by law enforcement for violating a traffic law.
Handbook p. 37 ↗Put it into practice
You're in the carpool lane when lights appear behind you. Signal right, move all the way to the right shoulder, stop in a well-lit spot if possible, turn off the radio, roll down your window and keep your hands visible.