What should I do when stopped by a police officer?
- First, try and relax. The officer is probably going to ask you some questions, nothing more.
- Answer the questions honestly and make good eye contact.
- Provide proper identification (school ID, passport or your driver's license)
- Please follow the officer’s directions at all times.
If a police officer pulls behind you with red and blue lights, pull your vehicle to the side of the road safely. If there is a good parking lot nearby, pull into it, off the road. Once you have stopped, the officer will ask you for your driver's license, proof of vehicle insurance and vehicle registration. One of three things may happen next:
- The officer will tell you what you did, and tell you to be more careful when driving.
- The officer will give you a written warning for what you did.
- The officer will give you a written citation for what you did.
If you receive a citation, you must take care of it within 30 days from the day you receive it. The directions are on the back of the yellow copy that you received from the officer. If you have questions, please visit the Orange County Clerk of Court's website here.
- If you have committed a criminal violation, you may be subject to arrest.
- If you are arrested, you will be informed of the reason for the arrest after you are placed in handcuff's.
- Once arrested you will be placed in the back of a police car and taken to the Orange County jail.
- There you will be fingerprinted and admitted to the jail. The handcuffs will be taken off and you will be searched for weapons or illegal items. You will also see a judge who will ask you questions. Be honest.
- Depending on the offense you may be able to post bail, which means that you pay money and promise to come back to the court on the date you are told.
If you have any questions please contact the UCF Police Department at 407-823-5555.