Is a Police Scanner Legal in Your Car?
Short answer: Yes, in almost every situation. Only 5 states have any restrictions on mobile scanner use, and even those restrictions are rarely enforced against law-abiding citizens. Here's everything you need to know.
The Quick Answer
No state completely bans police scanners in vehicles. The 5 states with restrictions either require permits (rarely enforced) or only prohibit scanner use during criminal activity.
The 5 States With Vehicle Restrictions
Only Florida, Indiana, Kentucky, Minnesota, and New York have any laws restricting mobile scanner use. Here's what those laws actually say—and how they're actually enforced:
| State | Restriction | Real-World Enforcement | Risk Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Florida | Permit required for mobile use | The permit is available through local law enforcement, but the law is rarely enforced against ordinary citizens. Primarily used as an add-on charge when someone is arrested for another crime. | Very Low |
| New York | Permit technically required | This antiquated law is almost never enforced. Most officers are unaware of it. The NYPD has stated they don't actively enforce scanner laws against civilians. | Extremely Low |
| Indiana | Prohibited during crime commission | Only applies if you're already committing a crime. General ownership and use while driving is unrestricted. | None (unless committing crime) |
| Kentucky | Prohibited to evade police | Only applies during active evasion scenarios. Normal use while driving is legal. | None (unless fleeing police) |
| Minnesota | Prohibited to aid in crime | Standard use is completely legal. This only becomes relevant if you're using a scanner while committing or escaping from a crime. | None (unless committing crime) |
Important Context
These laws are not actively enforced. Police departments don't pull people over for having scanners. These statutes exist primarily as add-on charges for people already arrested for other crimes. In decades of scanner use, prosecutions of ordinary citizens for simply having a scanner in their vehicle are virtually nonexistent.
What Happens If You're Pulled Over With a Scanner?
In 45 States (No Restrictions)
Nothing. Having a scanner is completely legal. You're under no obligation to mention it unless asked directly about electronic devices in your vehicle.
In Florida or New York (Permit States)
In practice, nothing happens. These permits are rarely requested or enforced. If an officer asks, you can explain you use it for weather alerts or community awareness. The vast majority of officers won't care.
In Indiana, Kentucky, or Minnesota
These states only restrict scanner use while committing a crime. If you're pulled over for a minor traffic violation, the scanner is irrelevant. It only becomes an issue if you were using it to aid in criminal activity or flee from police—which is already illegal regardless.
Best Practices During Traffic Stops
- You're not required to volunteer information about your scanner
- If asked directly, be honest—honesty prevents confusion
- Keep the scanner visible rather than hidden (hiding electronics can create suspicion)
- Know your state's specific law if you're in one of the 5 restricted states
- Remember: the scanner itself is not illegal, only misuse in specific circumstances
Professional & Commercial Use
Many professionals rely on mobile scanners for legitimate work purposes. Here's how the law applies to specific groups:
Truck Drivers & CDL Holders
Completely legal in all 50 states. Many truckers use scanners for weather alerts, accident reports, and road condition updates. Commercial vehicle operators face no additional restrictions.
CDL scanner guide →Security Professionals
Private security officers can legally use scanners while on duty. Some states exempt licensed security personnel from permit requirements. Check your state's specific exemptions.
Security scanner guide →Journalists & Media
Press credentials don't provide special scanner privileges, but journalists use mobile scanners legally in all 50 states. Many news organizations equip vehicles with scanners for breaking news coverage.
Journalist resources →Storm Chasers & Weather Spotters
Weather spotters and storm chasers rely heavily on mobile scanners for emergency communications. This use is legal everywhere and encouraged by organizations like SKYWARN.
Emergency scanner guide →What About Scanner Apps?
Scanner apps on your phone are subject to the same laws as hardware scanners. The legal status of listening doesn't change based on the device—what matters is your state's mobile scanner laws.
Key Points for App Users
- Same laws apply: Apps are treated identically to hardware scanners under state law
- Hands-free laws: Follow your state's distracted driving laws for phone use while driving
- Internet access: Apps require data connection; hardware scanners work independently
- Coverage: Apps only stream what volunteers feed; hardware receives all unencrypted signals
Setting Up a Scanner in Your Vehicle
If you're considering a mobile scanner setup, here are some practical tips:
Mounting Location
Mount where you can see/hear it without obstructing your view. Dashboard or center console mounts are popular choices.
Power Options
Most scanners can run on AA batteries, DC adapters (cigarette lighter), or be hardwired to your vehicle's electrical system.
Antenna
A good external antenna significantly improves reception. Magnetic mount antennas are easy to install and remove.
Programming
Program your local frequencies before hitting the road. Many scanners support GPS-based channel switching for travel.
Recommended Mobile Scanners
Uniden BCD996P2
$550–$650
Best dedicated mobile scanner. Designed specifically for vehicle installation with P25 Phase II support.
Check Price on Amazon →Uniden SDS100
$550–$700
Best portable for vehicle use. Portable enough to take from car to home, handles all digital formats.
Check Price on Amazon →Uniden BC125AT
$100–$130
Budget option for analog areas. Good for rural areas with older analog systems only.
Check Price on Amazon →Want more options? See our complete guide:
Take Action for Transparency
Your voice matters. Here are concrete ways to advocate for open police communications in your community.
Contact Your Representatives
Use our templates to email your local officials about police radio encryption policies.
Get StartedRead Case Studies
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View CasesSpread Awareness
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Public Testimony
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Prepare to SpeakFrequently Asked Questions
Is it legal to have a police scanner in my car?
In most states, yes. Only 5 states (Florida, Indiana, Kentucky, Minnesota, and New York) have any restrictions on mobile scanner use, and even in those states, enforcement against law-abiding citizens is extremely rare.
Which states ban police scanners in vehicles?
No state completely bans scanners in vehicles. Florida and New York require permits for mobile use (rarely enforced). Indiana, Kentucky, and Minnesota only prohibit scanner use while committing or fleeing from a crime.
Can police tell if I have a scanner in my car?
No. Police scanners are receive-only devices that do not transmit any signal. There is no way for law enforcement to detect that you're listening to a scanner.
What happens if police pull me over with a scanner?
In 45 states, nothing—having a scanner is completely legal. In the 5 restricted states, you're unlikely to face any issue as long as you're not committing another crime. Most officers don't enforce scanner laws against ordinary citizens.
Do I need a permit to have a scanner in my car?
Only Florida and New York technically require permits for mobile scanner use, and these laws are rarely enforced. In practice, millions of Americans have scanners in their vehicles without permits.
Is it illegal to listen to police during a traffic stop?
No. There is no law against listening to your scanner during a traffic stop. However, it's advisable to inform the officer you have a scanner if they ask about any electronic devices, to avoid confusion.
The Bottom Line
Having a police scanner in your car is legal in virtually every practical scenario. The 5 states with restrictions rarely enforce them against ordinary citizens, and no state completely bans mobile scanner use. Millions of Americans—truckers, storm chasers, journalists, and community members—use vehicle scanners every day without issue.
If you're concerned about your specific state, see our complete state-by-state guide for detailed information about your jurisdiction's laws.