TL;DR

Stay calm and look for a safe, well-lit place to pull over
Slow down, signal your intent, and keep hands visible
Follow all instructions and avoid sudden movements
Never argue with the officer; sign the citation if issued
Get Drivers Ed teaches students how to handle traffic stops confidently

Getting pulled over can be nerve-racking—especially if it’s your first time. But knowing what to do in advance can help you stay calm, avoid making mistakes, and protect your rights. At Get Drivers Ed, we don’t just teach the rules of the road—we prepare you for real-life scenarios like traffic stops. Here’s your step-by-step guide for what to do when you see those flashing lights behind you.

Pulling Over Safely

Find a Safe Spot

When you see the lights and hear the siren, don’t panic. First, check your mirrors and assess where you are. Look for a safe location—like a parking lot, wide shoulder, or side street—to pull over. It’s okay to drive a short distance if necessary, especially on a busy road. Just make sure to turn on your hazard lights to signal your intent to stop.

Use Your Turn Signal or Flashers

Once you’ve located a safe spot, slow down and activate your turn signal or flashers. This reassures the officer that you’re complying and preparing to stop.

Interacting with the Officer

Roll Down Windows and Turn on Interior Lights

Stay calm and slowly roll down the driver’s side window. If your windows are tinted, roll those down too. If it’s dark, turn on your interior lights. Keep your hands visible—preferably on the top of the steering wheel—and avoid reaching for anything unless instructed.

Park and Turn Off the Engine

Once you stop, put your car in park and turn off the ignition. Remain still and avoid sudden movements. Do not get out of the car unless asked. Staying inside helps avoid the appearance of confrontation.

Following Instructions

Wait for the Officer to Speak First

Let the officer begin the conversation. You’ll likely be asked for your driver’s license and vehicle registration. Before reaching for anything, politely inform the officer where those items are located. Move slowly and deliberately.

Pro Tip: Keep your glove box organized so you're not fumbling when retrieving documents.

Be Respectful and Compliant

Stay civil—even if you disagree with the reason you were stopped. If the officer issues a ticket, do not argue. Everything you say can be used in court, so it’s best to answer calmly and clearly.

You’ll have a chance to dispute the citation in court if needed. Instructions on how to pay or contest the ticket will be printed on it. You can also check your local state traffic laws for more information.

Signing the Citation

What Your Signature Means

If you’re issued a citation, the officer will ask you to sign it. This is not an admission of guilt—it simply acknowledges that you received it. Refusing to sign may escalate the situation.

Know Your Rights and Stay Safe

If you feel unsafe or believe you were wrongly stopped, you have options. You can:

Ask to see the officer’s badge and identification
Record the interaction if it’s legal in your state
Consult with an attorney if you plan to dispute the ticket

How Get Drivers Ed Prepares You

At Get Drivers Ed, our courses don’t stop at basic traffic laws. We include modules that teach new drivers how to respond in stressful situations, including what to do during a traffic stop. Whether you're taking a teen drivers ed course, an adult drivers ed course, or a defensive driving class, you’ll gain the tools to drive confidently and safely.

Learning how to interact with law enforcement is just as important as learning to parallel park. That’s why Get Drivers Ed makes it a priority in all of our online driver education programs.

Conclusion: Stay Calm, Stay Smart

Getting pulled over isn’t fun, but it doesn’t have to be scary. By following these simple steps—pulling over safely, staying respectful, and complying with instructions—you can make the experience as smooth as possible. Remember:

Keep calm and stay visible
Don’t make sudden moves
Ask questions respectfully
Dispute citations in court, not roadside

Get Drivers Ed helps you learn more than just road signs—we prepare you for the reality of driving.

🚗 Ready to become a safe, confident driver? Enroll now in one of our state-approved online driving courses and learn everything you need to hit the road safely.