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Originally Posted by Lakegeezer
The memory of the TV show Hogan's Heros keeps coming to mind when I read this thread. Have we gotten to the point where papers are required when out and about?
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No different than being stopped on the street. On the road, you need a driver's license. On the water, you need a Boater Ed Certificate if the vessel is powered by 25 horsepower or more.
Either situation.....................no document? You are obligated to identify yourself. Verbal ID is a last resort, but if that is all you have, that is all you can give. On the road, the officer will call your name and date of birth in (license or not) to dispatch to check your record and to see if you are who you claim to be. A photo license takes care of that part of it. No license requires getting a physical description from dispatch to verify that you resemble the description in state records. Whether or not you have a valid license is another issue.
On the water, the officer will get your information and, lacking ID, will have you sign the write-up slip. Having an ID simplifies the process because your name, birth date and address are on the document and you don't have to be asked for the information. Again, suitable ID speeds the process along and is not infringing on your rights.