Stopped and searched in the street
The police can search you if they have a real reason. You do not have to give your name for the search record.
- Before searching you the officer must tell you their name.
- The officer must tell you what they are looking for.
- The officer must tell you their reason for searching you.
- You can ask what power they are using and what they are looking for.
- For most searches you do not have to give your name, address or date of birth.
- This is different if a police officer believes you have been anti-social.
- In that situation you must give your name and address.
- Most searches need a real reason to suspect they will find something.
- A hunch alone is not a good enough reason.
- The officer can hold you in place to carry out the search.
- Do not fight against a search even if you think it is unlawful.
- You can complain about the search after it is over.
This is the short and simple version.
The full page has more detail. It also shows the law each point comes from.
Checked 2026-08-26. This is information, not legal advice.