'Blue Envelope' aims to assist neurodivergent in traffic stops

OLYMPIA — Washington state has initiated a voluntary, free program intended to help neurodivergent drivers and police better understand one another during traffic stops.

Called the “Blue Envelope Program,” it allows special-needs drivers to place their necessary information — license, insurance card, vehicle registration — in a special colored envelope which provides a visual cue to police about potential communication issues.

Neurodivergent is a term which describes people whose brains process differently from what is traditionally considered "typical.” The umbrella term may pertain to such conditions as autism, dyslexia, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and developmental coordination disorders (dyspraxia).

Being pulled over — with flashing lights, sirens, and the approach of an armed stranger — can potentially increase stress and impair communication for such individuals.

To ease that during a traffic stop, the driver or an informed passenger can hand the officer their Blue Envelope, according to program information on the state Department of Licensing website.

“This lets the officer know that a different communication approach may be helpful, making the interaction easier, clearer, and more comfortable for everyone involved,” officials say.

Information for both the neurodivergent person and the first responder is also printed on the envelope, and there is space to add a contact name and phone number.

Blue envelopes are free and available to anyone, including a friend or family member, at local driver licensing and vehicle licensing offices. Persons don’t need to have a specific diagnosis: anyone who thinks a blue envelope would help them communicate during a traffic stop is welcome to get one, or more if needed for additional vehicles.

The envelope should include current vehicle registration and vehicle insurance card and be placed in an accessible spot such as the driver sun visor, center console, or door pocket. Others who may be passengers or drive the vehicle should be informed of the envelope’s location so it can easily be handed to an officer along with a driver’s license.