Police Check Points - Do I have to show my drivers license?

Question

Do I have to show the police my drivers license at a police checkpoint? I do not show probable cause for a search. What are my rights? I feel like I am in a communist nation sometimes.

Wilington, NC

Answer 1

yes show them your license and be on your way now if the smell alcohol or see your eyes are shot red or see any type of drugs in the open or smell and drugs or see any type of illegal weapons they will tell you to go to the side and start a search also if the see you acting suspicious...there just trying to keep everyone safe...

Answer 2

It's called protecting you.  In communist nations, they can do a heck of a lot more than ask for your license.  You'll be glad when a terrorist is stopped at a checkpoint so that you can be nice and safe at a ballgame.  Stop whining and be thankful that cops put their necks out their for your protection.  If you don't appreciate it, try living in one of the countries from which people flock here every day.  They appreciate our freedom because they REALLY know what it's like to live in a communist nation.

Answer 3

Anytime an officer asks for your DL you need to show it to them.  If you do not have it, then show some other sort of proof of identification.  That is most likely the reason they are asking for it.  Just to make sure you are who you say you are.  Just show them, and then continue on.  It's probably as simple as that.  You never want to get charged with "failure to ID".

Answer 4

Yes. Presenting your drivers license as required by law is not a search.

Answer 5

If your driving? Yes, that is part of the agreement when you got your license.

You are exercising your PRIVILEGE to drive, not your RIGHT. If you are the one driving then it is your responsibility to show that you are an approved driver.

So what if they are looking for the criminal's that everybody demands they be out there catching. how many DUI, DWI, warrants and other "Wanted people" have been found/ arrested because of these "communist" actions?

And why is it when the Police do their job and it inconveniences YOU it is Communism or they are n**i's? Get off the reefer and stop being paranoid!  

Answer 6

That depends. Are you driving?

Answer 7

Yes, you must provide a driver's license when requested by the police.  A police checkpoint does not require probable cause.

Answer 8

Welcome to the excuse to stop and search...in California they use the checkpoints to check for everything including any warrants or other violations...from no "papers" to child car seats....all in the name of safety...if the y "think you are hiding something they will search you vehicle..even after you deny them access...why because they arrest you for delaying an officer in the performance of his duties.

PC148

This gives them excuse to search anywhere or anything.

Answer 9

On a public road you have a limited expectation of privacy, combined with the fact you are required to have valid drivers licensed, valid registration and insurance,  means yes they can set up check points to check all drivers on public roads are obeying the laws