Originally Posted by
chollie
As I understand it, our local laws allow LE to stop anyone at any time to demand they identify themselves. You have to satisfy the officer's request somehow. Technically, you do not have to show ID - unless the cop claims he doubts your identity, at which point you can be detained if you can't immediately produce an acceptable ID.
I don't think this is true in general in the USA, unlike in many foreign countries that require identity cards (and also require foreign nationals to carry passports or a substitute document such as an EU identity card). Of course, an exception would be if you're driving. Another exception would be when you enter many federal facilities. Plus, if you're flying, TSA security is generally easier if you have a government issued photo ID card.