Police radio codes are used to convey information quickly and precisely. But what exactly does “Code 38” mean, and why is it important for both officers and the public to understand these codes? This blog unpacks the meaning of police code 38, explores the context in which it’s used, and provides a deeper understanding of police communication.
Understanding Police Radio Codes
Law enforcement agencies rely on standardized codes for concise communication. These codes are known as “ten-codes” or numeric signals, and they’re used to describe incidents, requests, and officer statuses. Familiar codes like “10-4” (acknowledged) or “10-20” (location) have even made their way into popular culture. But not all codes have universal meanings. Many are unique to the region, department, or jurisdiction.
What Are Ten-Codes?
Ten-codes are a set of numeric codes beginning with the number ten (10), developed in the 1930s for law enforcement radio transmissions. Over time, agencies have adopted additional numerical and plain-language codes to expand their radio communication.
Example ten-codes include:
- 10-4: Message received
- 10-9: Repeat message
- 10-20: Location
Departments may supplement these with “signal codes,” “status codes,” or custom code numbers. Police code “38” falls into these alternate systems.
Police Code 38: The Basics
The core question, “What does police code 38 mean?” requires context, as “38” can have different meanings depending on the agency. Code 38 most commonly refers to a traffic stop involving a wanted or stolen vehicle, or sometimes specifically signals “wanted/stolen vehicle.”
However, this usage isn’t universal. To fully grasp what police code 38 means, it’s essential to explore it from several regional and practical perspectives.
Common Definitions of Code 38
1. Traffic Stop for Wanted/Stolen Vehicle
Many police departments in the United States use Code 38 as shorthand for:
- Conducting a traffic stop on a vehicle reported as wanted or stolen
- Alerting dispatch and backup units that a potentially serious stop is in progress
Example radio usage:
“Unit 11, Code 38, westbound on Main Street, blue Honda Civic, possible stolen vehicle.”
2. Alternative Departmental Uses
Not all departments use Code 38 the same way. Some agencies may use it for less severe matters, like stop-and-frisk operations or routine license checks. Others might assign a completely different meaning, such as referencing a type of report or call.
Always refer to the specific local agency’s radio codebook for precision.
Why Do Police Use Codes Like 38?
- Officer Safety: Coded language shields sensitive operations from the general public or suspects listening in.
- Efficiency: Codes like 38 condense messages so officers can communicate quickly during critical moments.
- Clarity: Repeating a short code is clearer over radio static than a long explanation.
Code 38 in Action
To see how police code 38 is used in practice, consider the following scenario:
Case Example:
An officer runs a license plate and receives an alert that the vehicle is stolen. Instead of announcing, “I am stopping a stolen car,” over the radio, the officer says, “Dispatch, Code 38 at 5th and Elm.” Backup knows to proceed with caution and dispatch prepares for a potentially escalated situation.
Additional Related Codes
Understanding code 38 is easier when viewed alongside codes commonly used in tandem:
- Code 6: Out for investigation (sometimes “out of vehicle”)
- Code 5: Stakeout or surveillance in progress
- Code 4: No further assistance needed; situation under control
- 10-29: Wants and warrants check
Regional Variations and Limitations
No national database standardizes all police codes. While “Code 38” often refers to a wanted/stolen vehicle traffic stop, some jurisdictions may have a different assignment. For instance:
- Certain Texas departments use Code 38 for traffic stops (mirroring the broader usage).
- Other municipalities might skip code numbers entirely and opt for plain speech.
Why Some Jurisdictions Switch to Plain Language
Increasingly, law enforcement agencies are moving toward plain language radio communication to reduce miscommunication across jurisdictions and improve public transparency. This means that, in some regions, “Code 38” could be replaced with a direct statement like, “Making a traffic stop, possible stolen vehicle.”
How Does Knowing Code 38 Help Civilians?
You may hear police radio transmissions due to publicly available scanners or during news coverage of law enforcement activity. Understanding key codes like Code 38 can help civilians:
- Interpret real-time emergency activity in their area
- Recognize when an area may be unsafe due to police action
- Respond intelligently as witnesses if questioned about ongoing events
Caution: Civilians shouldn’t attempt to intervene in or approach police during a Code 38 scenario, as these stops often carry heightened risk.
How to Look Up Specific Code Meanings
Wondering how you can confirm what “Code 38” means in your area?
- Check your local police department’s website: Many agencies publish their radio codebooks online.
- Contact non-emergency police lines: Officers or dispatch staff can clarify code meanings for public awareness.
- Consult police scanner forums: Online communities and hobbyists often collect and share up-to-date radio code lists by city and state.
Knowing Police Code 38 Matters
Police codes like “38” are a vital part of American law enforcement communication. While the specific meaning may vary, Code 38 most often signals a traffic stop involving a wanted or stolen vehicle. Understanding the context and intent behind these codes benefits both law enforcement professionals and attentive members of the public.
Learn More or Keep Listening
If you’re interested in learning more about police radio codes or want to follow local law enforcement activity, check your city’s website for radio code lists, or explore community police scanner groups online. For those considering a career in law enforcement, mastering radio codes is a must-have skill for officer safety and effective teamwork.