Do You Have To Identify Yourself To Police In Arizona?

Like many of you, I haven't committed any major crimes in my life, so I'm typically not nervous when I'm asked to identify myself to police officers.

Even those with spotless records may feel a bit hesitant to hand over their information though, but is it legal to withhold this information in Arizona?

Stop and Identify

Arizona is one of 24 states that are considered 'Stop and Identify" states. Effectively, this means that police are allowed to request your ID if you are under reasonable suspicion of criminal activity, or are believed to engage in criminal activity.

The most common occurrence of this is at traffic stops, but these can occur at almost any time, regardless of where you are. This isn't a catch-all, however, and there are certain instances where you are well within your rights to deny this request.

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Exceptions to the Rule

One thing to note: this law does not require you to carry your ID with you at all times, nor does it require you to provide any additional information. You always have the right to remain silent.

Aside from that, Police are only allowed to ask for your ID under two circumstances:

• Reasonable Suspicion
  • An officer believes you are about to commit a crime, have committed a crime, or are currently committing a crime.
• Lawful Detention
  • Being lawfully detained by a police officer, whether that be a traffic stop or a full-on arrest.

Outside of these specific circumstances, there is no legal cause to force police to take your ID, so know your rights.

[The Law Office of Zayed Al-Sayyed][Stop and Identify Statutes via Wikipedia]