North Carolina Police Law Institute Practice Test

A stop grounded in reasonable suspicion allows a brief detention when the officer has specific, articulable facts indicating that criminal activity may be afoot. This is a lower standard than probable cause, which is required for an arrest or for a full-blown search. The key is that the officer can point to concrete observations or information—things that would make a reasonable officer think something unlawful is happening—rather than a mere hunch. The stop may include questioning and a short detainment, but it does not authorize a full search or prolonged detention without additional justification. Consent from the driver is not required for such a stop, and a vehicle search without consent would not be allowed unless another exception applies (like probable cause or exigent circumstances). Therefore, the true statement is that a stop based on reasonable suspicion requires a reasonable, articulable suspicion of criminal activity.