What to do if you’re pulled over while driving abroad
Driving abroad can be a challenging and stressful experience, especially if you aren’t entirely familiar with the local driving rules. Getting pulled over by the police adds a whole new layer of anxiety for many people. In this article we will break down what to do during a traffic stop to keep yourself safe and to improve your odds of avoiding a fine or other legal consequence.
Quick answer:
If you are pulled over while driving abroad, stay calm, communicate clearly and concisely, have your legal documents on-hand. If a fine is issued, ask for a ticket that you can pay online or at a police station.
We have written blogs on driving rules in certain countries (e.g., Japan, Spain, Poland, Italy) that may be helpful. Feel free to check those out or contact us directly for any specific questions that aren’t covered!
What to have ready before you start driving
Valid driver’s license
Valid International Driving Permit (must be issued in the same country as your driver’s license)
Rental agreement
Vehicle registration
Proof of insurance (may be included with your rental paperwork)
Passport (recommended; required in some countries)
Why you might get pulled over
There are a number of reasons that you might get pulled over by police while driving abroad. Some of the most common ones are:
Speeding – Many countries are more strict about speed limits than the US. Different countries may use handheld radar guns, aircraft, speed cameras, and multi-officer speed traps. We recommend that you always drive at or below the speed limit.
Other traffic violations – Local rules may differ significantly from what you’re used to in the US. Make sure that you read up on local rules before you drive. The US State Department offers tips for driving in every country on its website.
Alcohol / drug impairment checkpoints – Some countries routinely set up alcohol and drug testing checkpoints where every car passing through will be stopped and checked. We recommend that you always drive sober, especially since many countries have significantly lower legal BAC limits than the US.
Document checkpoints, especially near borders – Some countries will stop all passing cars to ensure that cars are registered properly and drivers have the correct documents (e.g., a valid license, an International Driving Permit).
Vehicle roadworthiness checks – These are most common in mountainous or snowy areas. All passing cars will be checked to ensure they have the correct tires and/or tire chains.
What to do when you see police lights behind you
It’s important to keep calm if you see police lights behind you. Many countries require that you pull over to the side of the road to allow emergency vehicles to pass, though you should check local rules before driving. If you determine that the police officer is pulling you over specifically, do the following:
Acknowledge the stop – Turn on hazard lights and pull over in the first safe area available. This could be a parking lot, the shoulder of a road, or a side street.
Park and prepare – Put the car in park, turn off the engine, and engage the handbrake.
Stay in your car and keep calm – Keep your hands visible on the wheel. At night, switch on the interior light.
How to interact with the officer
Once the officer approaches your car, follow these guidelines:
Stay seated unless told to get out.
Roll your window down, remove your sunglasses, and be polite.
Speak slowly and clearly; if they don’t speak English, use simple words as needed. Be honest, but don’t say more than you need to. Don’t argue with the officer.
Avoid sudden movements to the glovebox or bags. Ask for permission to reach for your documents, then move slowly.
Fines and penalties
Fines and penalties vary a lot by country. A few tips:
Never offer cash first because it can look like a bribe.
In some countries, on-the-spot fines are legal, but you should ask for a written ticket or receipt.
If possible, pay with a credit card at an official terminal or at the station, not in a dark corner.
If the officer seems to be soliciting a bribe, stay polite and don’t offer money. Tell them that you are happy to pay an official fine and ask for a receipt. If that doesn’t work, always prioritize your safety – you don’t need to win an argument.
Obtain a legitimate International Driving Permit
Holders of U.S. driver’s licenses must obtain an IDP from an authorized issuer. PriorityIDP obtains legitimate IDPs on behalf of its customers from AAA and express ships them internationally. This is the fastest, most reliable way to receive an IDP if you are unable to visit a AAA branch yourself.