England & Wales · Your situation

Stopped or searched by police in England and Wales: what are my rights?

Police in England and Wales can stop you and ask what you are doing, but most searches need reasonable grounds to suspect you are carrying something such as drugs, a weapon or stolen property. A few powers, such as section 60 of the Criminal Justice and Public Order Act 1994, allow searches without suspicion in an authorised area. Before a search the officer must give their name and station, the power used, the grounds and what they are looking for, and you can ask for a copy of the search record. You generally do not have to give your name and address for the search record, but drivers must give their details when asked.

Law checked as at 25 September 2026. Legal information only, not legal advice. See how we check and recent changes.

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What happens and your rights

Stage 1: Stopped by police

Police may stop you in the street or in a vehicle and ask what you are doing. They can search you only if they have reasonable grounds to suspect you carry items such as drugs, weapons or stolen property, or under a special authorisation (for example Criminal Justice and Public Order Act 1994 s.60).

Time limits

You can be detained only as long as reasonably needed for the search. You can ask for a copy of the search record, normally within 3 months.

Your rights

Officer must give their name, station, the grounds and the object of the search
You generally do not have to answer questions or give your name when stopped on foot
Drivers must give name and address and produce a licence when required
Only outer coat, jacket and gloves can be removed in public

Questions to ask your solicitor