Whether you call them the police, the Five-0, the Po-po, or something else entirely, be cool and follow these steps.

Step 1: Relax

Relax. Being nervous, even if you’ve done nothing at all, makes cops suspicious.

Step 2: Keep your hands on the wheel

If you’re in a car, put your hands in front of you, on the steering wheel. Don’t reach for your license or registration until you’re asked. Police are trained to assume that everyone has a hidden weapon, so don’t give them reason to believe that you might.

Step 3: Be quiet

Remember the old adage, “Speak only if spoken to”? Now’s a good time to follow it. Don’t offer excuses or explanations; you may be admitting to something they’re not even pulling you over for!

Step 4: Stay put

Stay put. If you get out of a car after being stopped, police assume it’s to attack. The same rule applies when there’s no car involved; if you walk even a few steps away, they assume you’re making a run for it.

Step 5: Don't argue

Do not complain or argue. It will never, ever work. Keep things civil — even friendly — and they just may cut you some slack.

Step 6: Take a ticket graciously

If you get a ticket, simply take it and say “thank you,” as hard as that may be. Being rude can only make trouble for you in the future.