DOCUMENT DO’S AND DON’TS (REGARDLESS OF CITIZENSHIP STATUS)

Now that any local or state officer can enforce immigration laws in Texas, it’s important to know what documents you should carry with you, and what is and is not required of you when it comes to documentation. Follow these Documentation Do’s and Don’t to minimize risk during police encounters:

DOCUMENT DO’S & DON’TS

DO

  • Present Identifying Information

    If you are pulled over while driving in Texas by a local or state Peace Officer, when requested, Texas law requires you to provide identifying information such as:

    • Name
    • Texas Driver License / Texas Driver License number
    • Residence address
    • Date of birth
    • Vehicle registration
    • Proof of insurance

  • Carry documentation at all times if it proves*:

    • You’re a U.S. citizen
    • You have legal a presence in the U.S.
    • You’re a recipient of DACA benefits
    • You have asylum

DON’T

  • Carry any false identification or false immigration documents

    ❗IMPORTANT❗Be aware of documentation scams

    People selling documents that “prove” you came across the border legally are FALSE. The CBP One app is the only true proof of legal border crossing.

  • Carry or present documentation about your country of origin

    Because it is not required, showing your foreign passport may open you up to more suspicion, and may subject you to arrest if the identification does not show proof you entered Texas legally from a port of entry. Consider leaving any foreign identification and documentation at home.

If you’re a passenger in a vehicle

Reminder for friends and familia: You do NOT legally need to show identification to a Texas Peace Officer as a passenger in a vehicle. However, if you are a U.S. citizen and are being questioned about your status, you may want to show proof of U.S citizenship to avoid any issues.

Visit our Know Your Rights page to learn more about what is and is not legally required of you in the event of a police encounter.