Constitution Cards

All cards โ€บ Amendment IV

Amendment IV: Protection from unreasonable searches

Passed by Congress September 25, 1789. Ratified December 15, 1791. ยท Part of the Bill of Rights

In plain English

Police generally need a warrant, based on probable cause and describing exactly what they're looking for, to search you, your home or your belongings.

Original text

The right of the people to be secure in their persons, houses, papers, and effects, against unreasonable searches and seizures, shall not be violated, and no Warrants shall issue, but upon probable cause, supported by Oath or affirmation, and particularly describing the place to be searched, and the persons or things to be seized.

Plain-English summaries are simplified for learning. Courts interpret these words in detail; this is general information, not legal advice.

Source: National Archives