Do police usually ask what you do for a living at a traffic stop & is it custom to hand them your business card?

Answer 1

It's fairly common to ask someone that on a stop, especially if it appears that the person may be going to or coming from work.  It's generally considered a good way to see if the person seems nervous, or potentially impaired.  I wouldn't hand them a business card. 

Answer 2

What they ask and say at a traffic stop is part of their training and always intended.  Your answers and facial expression tell them what they want to know vis a vis lies,  danger, stroke, dementia, on drugs and drunk. If asked,a business card would be a logical thing to do.

Answer 3

I have never been asked what I did for a living. Not relevant unless you are a Dr. getting to a emergency or something.  

Answer 4

I have been asked what I do for a living during a traffic stop.  I don't know why - maybe he was just trying to get a sense of what kind of person I was.  Handing the cop a business card?  I suppose it's okay, but as always, make sure the cop can see what you are doing with your hands.

Answer 5

No, do not give them your business card. That could come across as you trying to bribe them.

Answer 6

It is common for police to make small talk to gauge a person's nervousness or to look for signs of impairment. 

I've never been offered a business card in 24 years. 

Answer 7

I mean if they ask you and you have it sure give it to them. They might ask all kinds of questions

Answer 8

They may engage you in small talk. They may do that as a way to get a feeling if you are being truthful with them too.

Answer 9

I've been asked.  I am a female in a male profession, Officers find that interesting, I've given out my card.

Answer 10

It isn't customary.  

But, one time - I was in a residential neighborhood doing an estimate and somebody called me in as suspicious.  I handed the officer a business card and showed him my worksheet and he was off. 

Normally, an officer isn't going to ask your occupation or have any need for your business card.