Unmarked police cars: you’ve probably passed by one without even realizing it. These cars blend right in with regular traffic, but there are some cool tricks to spot them.

From their unique models to subtle gear and even their driving style, we’ll give you the lowdown on how to tell if that plain car next to you is actually keeping an eye on things. Let’s get into it and uncover the secrets of these undercover rides!

Get to Know Your Local Police Cars

police officer writing ticket to driver
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It’s crucial to familiarize oneself with the types of vehicles utilized by your local police department. In the U.S., departments frequently employ models such as the Chevy Tahoe PPV, Dodge Charger Pursuit, and Ford Police Interceptor Utility.

Unmarked police cars often resemble these standard cruisers but lack visible police markings. Observing vehicles in your area that align with these models, especially with subdued color schemes or black-and-white finishes, can be a telltale sign of an unmarked police vehicle.

This awareness assists in better understanding and identifying the vehicles that blend seamlessly with civilian traffic.

Covered or Altered Markings

flashing lights of the police car into the checkpoint in the city
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Unmarked police cars might use techniques like vinyl wraps or nondescript paint to conceal their identity. These coverings can hide or obscure typical police markings and decals. Keep an eye out for any inconsistencies in paint or signs that a vehicle might have had markings altered or removed.

Some departments also employ non-reflective ghost graphics, which are nearly invisible during the day. These subtle modifications are designed to maintain a low profile while still fulfilling law enforcement duties.

License Plates

Sport Utility Vehicle Police Cruiser Emergency Assistance on the City Street. Police Car with Flashing Lights.
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License plates can be a significant clue in identifying unmarked police cars. While these plates can differ from city to city and state to state, they often have distinctive features that set them apart. For example, a city might use plates with a specific design or inscription, such as Honolulu’s HPD-marked plates. Despite their attempts to blend in, these vehicles often carry government or municipal plates, making them distinguishable upon closer inspection.

Police Gear

Department of Homeland Security (DHS, D.H.S.) federal agents stand guard during a Black Lives Matter protest.
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Even without external markings, unmarked police cars usually have special equipment. This might include police lights integrated into the grille or side mirrors, or a cage-like push bumper on the front. While older models might have prominent antennas, advancements in technology have made these less common. However, a keen observer can still spot these features, which are crucial for police work but often subtly integrated into the vehicle’s design.

Driving Behavior

police car lights
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Unmarked police cars are bound by the same traffic laws as other vehicles, but their driving behavior might give them away. This can include maintaining a consistent speed, making sudden lane changes, or following another vehicle closely. These behaviors, while not definitive, can be indicative of a police vehicle on duty, especially if accompanied by the occasional use of emergency equipment like lights and sirens.

Look for Other Law Enforcement Indicators

police officer traffic speed
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Sometimes, unmarked police cars operate in conjunction with marked vehicles or on-foot officers. If you suspect an unmarked car is nearby, check for other law enforcement activities in the area. This can include the presence of marked police cars or uniformed officers, which can suggest that the unmarked vehicle is part of a larger operation.

Covert Behavior

helicopter police chase
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The behavior of an unmarked police car’s occupants can also be a giveaway. These individuals might strive to blend in with regular traffic and avoid drawing attention to themselves. However, their activities, such as conducting surveillance or gathering intelligence, can sometimes be noticed by an observant bystander. These officers are trained to operate covertly and within legal boundaries, ensuring safety for all involved.

Prolonged Following

woman pulled over police officer
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Awareness of your surroundings is key. If a vehicle seems to be following you for an extended period, it’s wise to stay alert. While it’s not always a sign of danger, and not every such vehicle is a police car, extended following can be a method used in police surveillance. If you have concerns, contacting local authorities for clarification can be a prudent step.

Touch Up On Local Laws and Regulations

traffic sign one way
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With a wide array of police agencies in the U.S., laws governing the use of unmarked cars can vary significantly. Knowing the specific regulations in your area can help in identifying these vehicles. Unmarked police cars are often subject to strict rules regarding their deployment and use, and understanding these can provide insight into when and how these vehicles are likely to be used.

Enhanced Performance Features

undercover police car
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Many unmarked police cars are equipped with enhanced performance features to assist in law enforcement duties. These might include upgraded engines, reinforced suspensions, or high-performance brakes. While these features are not always visible, a vehicle’s unusually powerful acceleration or agile handling in traffic can be a hint of its law enforcement role.

Window Tint Levels

police car
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Unmarked police cars often have a higher level of window tinting than standard vehicles. This tinting helps to conceal the identity of the occupants and the equipment inside the car. If a vehicle in your vicinity has significantly darker windows compared to others, it could be an undercover police car.

Frequent Stops or Slow Drives in Neighborhoods

police traffic stop two cars
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Unmarked police cars sometimes engage in surveillance by making frequent stops or driving slowly through neighborhoods, often near certain landmarks. This behavior, particularly if it’s repeated over several days, might indicate that the vehicle is part of a police operation, closely observing an area or a specific target for investigation purposes.

Unusual Antenna Arrangements

car antenna
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Despite the reduction in visible antennas on modern police vehicles, some unmarked cars might still have unusual or multiple antenna setups. These can be for communication equipment or other specialized devices. A vehicle with an array of antennas, especially if combined with other features mentioned earlier, could be an unmarked police car.

Author: Josh Clark

Title: Founder

Expertise: Automotive, Home and Garden, Travel

Josh Clark is a car fanatic and founder of The Bearded Bunch. Give him a free Saturday, and he'll spend the entire day working on his truck and loving every minute of it.

Josh grew up with a dad that also loves cars, so his obsession was woven into his genetics. From maintenance tips to classic cars, Josh covers a number of topics that any gearhead can appreciate.

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