Do police officers need probable cause to administer field sobriety tests?

Police officers must have probable cause to suspect impairment in order to administer field sobriety tests. This standard is essential because these tests are designed to evaluate a person's physical and cognitive abilities, which can indicate whether they are under the influence of alcohol or drugs. The probable cause typically comes from observations made by the officer, such as erratic driving, the smell of alcohol, or the behavior of the driver during a traffic stop.

Field sobriety tests are not randomly administered; they are a response to specific indicators of impairment. Additionally, the requirement for probable cause applies universally, not just to certain types of drivers or in specific locations. By establishing probable cause, officers protect individuals' rights while ensuring that only those who may be impaired are subjected to these potentially intrusive tests. This framework upholds the balance between law enforcement duties and individual freedoms.