What happens next
Pulled over: what happens next, step by step
What usually happens from the moment you see lights behind you, and what you can do at each step.
Most traffic stops end with a warning or a ticket. Knowing the steps ahead of time can make the stop feel less scary.
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Step 1 of 7 · The first minute
You see lights behind you
What usually happens
- An officer signals you to pull over.
What you can do
- Signal, slow down, and pull over to the right when it is safe.
- Turn off the engine. At night, turn on the inside light.
- Roll down your window. Put your hands on the steering wheel.
- Passengers should keep their hands where officers can see them.
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Step 2 of 7 · A few minutes
The officer comes to your window
What usually happens
- The officer usually says why you were stopped.
- They ask for your license, registration, and proof of insurance.
What you can do
- You must show these documents.
- Say where they are before you reach for them.
- If you have a disability that affects how you communicate, you can say so or show a card.
Say“My license is in my wallet. I'm going to reach for it now.”
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Step 3 of 7
The officer asks questions
What usually happens
- They may ask where you are going, where you have been, or if you know why they stopped you.
What you can do
- You can choose not to answer questions beyond your documents.
- In some states, you must give your name if asked.
- Passengers generally do not have to answer questions.
- Stay calm. Do not argue at the roadside.
Say“I am exercising my right to remain silent.”
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Step 4 of 7
You may be asked to step out
What usually happens
- An officer can order the driver and passengers out of the car during a lawful stop.
What you can do
- Get out if you are told to. Move slowly and keep your hands visible.
- If an officer reasonably suspects you have a weapon, they can pat down your outer clothing.
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Step 5 of 7
The officer may ask to search
What usually happens
- They may ask to look in your car or your bag.
- Police can search a car without consent if they have probable cause.
What you can do
- You can say no to a search. Say it clearly and calmly.
- Do not physically stop a search, even if you did not agree to it.
- A stop can't be stretched out just to wait for a drug dog, unless police have reasonable suspicion.
Say“I do not consent to a search.”
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Step 6 of 7
The stop ends
What usually happens
- Most stops end with a warning or a ticket. Some end in an arrest.
- In many states, signing a ticket only promises that you will respond to it. It is not an admission.
- Refusing to sign can lead to arrest in some states. Sign, then contest the ticket later.
What you can do
- If you are not sure the stop is over, ask.
- If you are arrested, see the next guide.
Say“Am I free to go?”
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Step 7 of 7
Afterward
What usually happens
- A ticket tells you how to pay it or how to contest it in court.
What you can do
- Write down what happened, the time, and the officer's name or badge number.
- You can contest a ticket in court by the date on it.
- If you think police acted wrongly, you can file a complaint with the police department.
Common questions
Do I have to answer police questions at a traffic stop?
You must show your license, registration, and proof of insurance. You can choose not to answer other questions. In some states, you must give your name.
Can police search my car without my permission?
Yes, if they have probable cause to believe it holds evidence of a crime. You can still say "I do not consent to a search." Don't physically stop them.
Does signing a ticket mean I admit I'm guilty?
In many states, no. Signing usually means you promise to respond to the ticket. You can still contest it in court.