What is the vehicle exception to the warrant requirement?

• A. A warrantless search of a movable vehicle is permissible only with a warrant.
• B. A warrantless search of a vehicle is never allowed.
• C. A warrantless search of a vehicle is permissible with reasonable suspicion.
• D. A warrantless search of a movable vehicle is permissible when there is probable cause that it contains evidence or contraband.

Answer: (D)

The key idea is the automobile (or vehicle) exception: because a movable vehicle can be quickly relocated, police may search it without a warrant when they have probable cause to believe it contains evidence or contraband. Probable cause is the required standard, not mere reasonable suspicion, and the existence of probable cause justifies the search without a warrant due to practicality and the reduced expectation of privacy in moving vehicles. The search can extend to all areas of the vehicle where the items could be found, including compartments or containers that might hold the evidence. If there isn’t probable cause, the warrant requirement generally applies unless another exception applies. This is why the statement describing a warrantless search as permissible with probable cause best captures the rule.