In MA, do I have the right to refuse to identify myself to a police officer even if he/she requests that information...?

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In MA, do I have the right to refuse to identify myself to a police officer even if he/she requests that information...?

Anonymous Aug 2, 2013 2 views 1 answers

during a Terry stop? I know of a few situations in MA when a cop can arrest you for failing to provide ID (ex: You can be arrested for refusing to identify yourself to an MBTA cop if he needs the information to write-up a fare evasion ticket).

Adam Phipps · Answer 1 · 2026-06-15T10:44:21+00:00

You are right there are many reasons the police can legitimately require you to identify yourself. The answer to your question would require more factual information. If you are operating a motor-vehicle, you must ID yourself. If you are simply a passenger in the car and nothing else, probably not.

In MA, do I have the right to refuse to identify myself to a police officer even if he/she requests that information...?

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