Police 10 Codes
Police 10 Codes, also known as law enforcement ten codes or 10-codes radio signals, are a standardized system of numeric codes used by police officers and emergency responders for efficient communication over the radio. These codes allow officers to convey detailed information quickly, clearly, and discreetly without using long sentences. One of the most recognized examples is the 10-code for Bomb Threat or Patrol Your District and Report Extent of Damage, which may vary slightly depending on local law enforcement jurisdictions.
Whether you’re a civilian scanning police radio traffic or a researcher interested in public safety terminology, understanding police 10 codes can provide unique insight into how officers communicate during emergencies, investigations, and day-to-day operations.
On this page, you will find the most comprehensive, accurate, and free resource for Police 10 Codes, including detailed meanings, variations used in different states, and updates on codes still in active use versus those being phased out. From codes related to routine traffic stops to critical incident responses such as 10-33 (emergency) or 10-34 (riot), we’ve covered everything you need to understand how the system works. If you’re searching for a complete list of updated police ten codes, want to know what each one means, or are curious about how they’re used during real-life radio transmissions, you’re in the right place. We aim to make this the ultimate reference for police codes, cop communication codes, and emergency radio signal meanings – all at no cost to you.
Police 10 Codes—sometimes referred to as ten-codes, radio communication codes, or law enforcement shorthand—are a vital part of police communication systems used locally, nationally, and even internationally. These numeric codes help law enforcement officers, dispatchers, and other emergency personnel communicate clearly and efficiently over radio systems, especially in high-pressure or time-sensitive situations.
You may have come across Police 10 Codes while listening to a police scanner, watching real-life law enforcement documentaries, or tuning into popular police TV shows like COPS, Live PD, or NCIS. These codes are commonly used in daily operations across police departments to discreetly relay messages related to incidents, emergency responses, and situational updates. For example, a code like 10-33 indicates an emergency, while 10-7 means an officer is out of service.
In practice, police officers and dispatchers do not typically say the phrase “ten code” over the air. Instead, they pronounce the numbers digit by digit—such as “one-zero-four” for 10-4, which commonly means “acknowledged” or “message received.” This method of communication ensures that messages are transmitted with clarity, accuracy, and minimal confusion, especially in noisy environments or when dealing with faulty radio signals.
The structured use of 10 Codes helps minimize miscommunication in critical scenarios and allows officers to maintain brevity while still conveying specific information. It’s a form of professional shorthand designed to streamline radio transmissions and protect sensitive details from being easily interpreted by the public or by individuals listening in. Whether you’re a civilian monitoring emergency broadcasts, a student of criminal justice, or just curious about police radio lingo, understanding Police 10 Codes provides valuable insight into the language and logistics behind law enforcement operations. For a full, regularly updated list of Police 10 Codes and their meanings, continue browsing our site—we provide the most detailed and accessible database online, completely free.
Police officers, detectives, and law enforcement professionals rely heavily on police code communication, especially while responding to incidents or coordinating operations in the field. One of the most widely used and recognized sets of codes in law enforcement is the Police 10 Codes. These numeric radio codes serve as a quick and standardized way for officers to share critical information with dispatchers and fellow officers. Whether the situation involves a bomb threat, a command to patrol the district and report damage, or other urgent matters, using 10 codes ensures clarity and reduces the risk of misunderstanding in high-stress environments.
Typically, these communications take place over a two-way radio system, where a dispatcher—often located at a central 911 call center or a precinct command post—is responsible for relaying information, assigning officers to scenes, and coordinating responses. Police 10 Codes are pronounced digit by digit (e.g., “ten-three-three” for 10-33) to prevent confusion over the radio, especially when background noise or signal interference is present.
Beyond interactions with dispatch, police radio codes also facilitate real-time communication between multiple law enforcement units operating in the same area. This includes patrol officers in vehicles, undercover detectives, SWAT teams, and even personnel working at local jails, county detention centers, and state law enforcement agencies. The ability to communicate rapidly and efficiently using a standard code system enhances coordination, promotes officer safety, and ensures that the appropriate response is deployed based on the situation.Police 10 Codes play a crucial role in maintaining order and ensuring public safety. From managing large public events to dealing with emergencies like natural disasters or active shooter incidents, law enforcement teams depend on these codes to keep operations organized and seamless. Additionally, the use of coded language helps limit the amount of sensitive information disclosed over open channels that may be monitored by civilians or the media.
What is Police 10 Codes?
Police 10 Codes, also known as ten signals or ten-codes, are a standardized set of numeric codes used by law enforcement officers, dispatchers, and emergency personnel to communicate essential information quickly and clearly over radio systems. These codes are designed to reduce radio chatter and allow officers to convey important messages in a concise format. One specific example of a 10 code in use is the directive related to a bomb threat or an instruction to patrol the district and report the extent of damage. This helps ensure that critical details are transmitted efficiently, especially in emergencies where every second counts. Used across police departments nationwide and often recognized in police scanners and TV shows, 10 codes have become a core element of real-time communication in law enforcement. Rather than saying full sentences over the radio, officers use codes like these to coordinate actions, call for backup, update status, or relay specific threats. Whether it’s a routine patrol, a major incident, or a high-risk situation, police 10 codes help ensure order, enhance officer safety, and maintain effective communication between dispatch, patrol units, and investigative teams.
10‐1 Signal Weak
10‐2 Signal Good
10‐3 Stop Transmitting
10‐4 Affirmative
10‐5 Relay
10‐6 Busy
10‐7 Out of Service
10‐8 In Service
10‐9 Repeat
10‐10 Negative
10‐11 On Duty
10‐12 Standby
10‐13 Existing Conditions
10‐14 Message or Information
10‐15 Message Delivered
10‐16 Reply to Message
10‐17 Enroute
10‐18 Urgent
10‐19 In Contact
10‐20 Location
10‐21 Call by Telephone
10‐22 Disregard
10‐23 On Scene
10‐24 Assignment Completed
10‐25 Report To/Meet
10‐26 Estimated Time of Arrival
10‐27 License Information
10‐28 Registration Information
10‐29 Warrant/Record Check
10‐30 Danger/Caution
10‐31 Pick Up
10‐32 Units Needed
10‐33 Help Quick
10‐34 Time
10‐35 Vandalism
10‐36 Larceny
10‐37 Damage to Property
10‐38 Assault
10‐39 Juvenile Case
10‐40 Fight
10‐41 Beginning Tour of Duty
10‐42 Ending Tour of Duty
10‐43 Chase
10‐44 Riot
10‐45 Bomb Threat
10‐46 Bank Alarm
10‐47 Complete Assignment
10‐48 Detaining Subject/Expedite
10‐49 Drag Racing
10‐50 Motor Vehicle Accident
10‐51 Wrecker Needed
10‐52 Ambulance Needed
10‐53 Roadway Blocked
10‐54 Hit and Run
10‐55 Intoxicated Driver
10‐56 Intoxicated Pedestrian
10‐57 Intoxilyzer Operator
10‐58 Direct Traffic
10‐59 Escort
10‐60 Investigate Suspicious
10‐61 Traffic Stop
10‐62 Breaking and Entering
10‐63 Investigate __ at __
10‐64 Crime in Progress
10‐65 Armed Robbery
10‐66 Notify Medical Examiner
10‐67 Investigate Report of Death
10‐68 Livestock in Roadway
10‐69 Advise Present Telephone
10‐70 Improperly Parked Vehicle
10‐71 Improper Use of Radio
10‐72 Prisoner in Custody
10‐73 Mental Subject
10‐74 Prison/Jail Break
10‐75 Wanted/Stolen
10‐76 Prowler
10‐77 Assist Fire Department
10‐78 Assist Other Department
10‐79 Civil Disturbance
10‐80 Domestic Disturbance
10‐81 Return to Office
10‐82 Person W/Gun (10‐85 w/NCHP)
10‐83 Silent Run
10‐84 Permission to Leave
10‐85 Stranded Motorist
10‐86 Personnel in Area
10‐87 Message Received
10‐88 Fire at ____
10‐89 Dog Call
10‐90 Alarm
10‐91 Animal Carcass at ___
10‐92 Surveillance (Radar)
10‐93 Possible Aircraft Crash
10‐94 Gunshot Wound
10‐95 Drug Check
10‐96 Meal Break
10‐97 Hospital Report
10‐98 Civil Process
10‐99 Warrant Process
10‐105 Follow‐up Investigation
10‐106 Court Appearance
10‐107 Vehicle Maintenance
10‐108 Building Check
10‐109 Attempted Suicide