Requires law enforcement officer to reveal facial identity during certain public interactions and to present sufficient identification prior to arresting or detaining person.

Officers face mask limits and identification rules

Beginning March 25, 2026, New Jersey law limits officer masks and requires identification before arrest or detention. It covers federal, state, county, and municipal officers empowered to enforce state or federal laws. Officers cannot wear masks or disguises while interacting with the public on duty, except for listed reasons. Exceptions allow undercover work, tactical operations, and protection from retaliation threats tied to their duties. Officers may also wear protective face shields that leave their faces visible, or medical-grade masks and N95 respirators. Other exceptions allow protection from smoke during a State of Emergency, cold during a weather emergency, or biological or chemical agents during an incident where those agents may be present. Before arresting or detaining someone, officers must provide sufficient identification. A department uniform with agency insignia, possession of a department photo ID with identifying information, or a displayed department-issued number identifier satisfies this requirement. Officers can also clearly and audibly state their name and agency. Identification exceptions apply when disclosure may compromise an authorized investigation, a supervisor decides stealth is needed, or officers reasonably believe their safety is at risk. Plainclothes officers and officers in unmarked vehicles may still intervene in urgent public-safety matters. The Attorney General must issue guidelines or directives to carry out the law.