What action should an officer take if the violator does not have a driver's license on hand?

When a violator does not have a driver's license on hand, it is crucial for an officer to document this fact in their report. This action serves several purposes. First, it provides a clear record of the encounter and the circumstances surrounding the citation, which can be important for legal and procedural reasons. If the case were to go to court, having documented evidence that the violator did not present their driver's license can support the officer's actions during the stop.

Additionally, documenting the lack of a valid driver's license can help to identify patterns over time in traffic stops, and assist in understanding driver behavior within the area. It also maintains accountability for the officer’s actions and decisions made during the stop.

Other options may not effectively address the situation. While requesting the violator to provide their license later may seem reasonable, it does not provide a solid record of the violation at that moment. Simply releasing them could allow for a potential repeat offense. Calling for backup may be unnecessary unless there is a particular concern for officer safety or other complicating factors. Therefore, proper documentation stands out as the most responsible action for the officer to take in this scenario.