In APCO, Association of Public-Safety Communications Officials 10-codes, 10-28 means "Vehicle Registration Check" or "Registration Information". It is used to request or report verification of a vehicle’s registration, ownership, or status, typically through dispatch or a law enforcement database.
Here’s how it might be used in a real-world scenario:
- Officer: "Dispatch, 10-28 on a blue sedan, plate ABC-1234."
- Dispatch: "10-4, registration clear. No alerts."
In this exchange, the officer is checking the registration status of a vehicle. Using 10-28 ensures dispatch is aware of verification activities, can monitor for any alerts, and can coordinate response if a vehicle is stolen or involved in criminal activity.
Operational Purpose
10-28 is essential for traffic enforcement, incident investigations, and officer safety. By confirming vehicle registration, officers can detect stolen vehicles, outstanding warrants, or other law enforcement concerns, while dispatch maintains situational awareness and records.
This code also allows dispatch to provide critical information such as owner details, vehicle status, or any restrictions associated with the vehicle before officers approach, enhancing both safety and operational efficiency.
Officer Safety And Coordination
Declaring a 10-28 check ensures that dispatch is aware of a vehicle stop or investigation, which is particularly important when approaching unfamiliar or potentially high-risk vehicles. Officers may temporarily use 10-6 (busy) while waiting for registration confirmation and follow up with 10-4 (acknowledgment) once information is received.
Variations And Agency Practices
Some agencies use 10-28 strictly for standard motor vehicle checks, while others extend its use to commercial vehicles, trailers, or specialized registrations. Local procedures may dictate whether officers relay results verbally, log them digitally, or take additional steps based on the registration status.
Plain-Language Alternatives
Agencies emphasizing plain-language communication may replace 10-28 with phrases such as:
- "Check vehicle registration."
- "Verify license plate."
- "Confirm vehicle ownership and status."
Related 10-Codes
Codes commonly associated with 10-28 include 10-4 (acknowledgment), 10-20 (location), 10-27 (check identification), 10-6 (busy), and 10-26 (detaining suspect). Together, these codes support comprehensive traffic enforcement and officer safety.