I’ve previously reported that it can be easy to spot certain unmarked police cars–especially if they are the same familiar makes and models as marked cars. Often they will even be the same trim as marked cars–with simple paint colors, steel rims, and radio antennas. So is it just as easy to identify an undercover police officer? Possibly. Attorney Mike Mandell has three handy tips to identify a plainclothes police officer.

First and foremost: You will almost never be stopped by a plain clothes police officer in an unmarked car. In many states this is illegal. In places where it is illegal, many police departments choose not to do it. Instead, a plainclothes officer in an unmarked car may call a uniformed officer and ask them to complete the traffic stop. Why? To make it harder for criminals to impersonate police officers.

So where might you see plainclothes police officers? They may be detectives, or they may be around town looking for illegal activity such as street racing or crimes in progress. They are not “undercover” officers per se–officers who have a secret identity for deep cover work. They are working a regular police shift, carrying a badge and gun, but doing so in plainclothes. And according to one lawyer, there are three ways you may be able to spot them.

Police haircut

Many police departments have strict grooming requirements. In these departments, police officers may dress in plainclothes for a shift. But their short “police style” haircuts make them stand out.

Baggy clothes

Unlike an undercover police officer, a cop in plainclothes is almost certainly carrying their regular gear. This often includes a side arm, a badge, and perhaps a radio or handcuffs. Where do they hide it all? Beneath a big jacket, vest, or other baggy clothes. This is another giveaway you may be dealing with an officer in plain clothes.

Hiking boots

Finally, a police officer wants to be sure they can operate as effectively as their colleagues–even in plainclothes. What if they need to chase down a suspect? No slippery dress shoes for them. Some officers may prefer sneakers, but its common to see them in hiking boots.

So if you do get pulled over by an unmarked police officer and approached by someone with a tight police haircut, baggy clothes, and functional shoes there is a chance they are an officer in plain clothes. But be sure to ask for their badge first thing. If you are still concerned, you can always dial 911 and ask the dispatcher if they have a plain clothes officer completing traffic stops.

You can see attorney Mike Mandell’s full rundown in the video below: