In APCO, Association of Public-Safety Communications Officials 10-codes, 10-63 means "Traffic Violation" or "Citation Issued". It is used when an officer has observed or stopped a vehicle for a traffic infraction and issued a citation, warning, or notice, ensuring dispatch and other units are aware of enforcement activity.
Here’s how it might be used in a real-world scenario:
- Officer: "Dispatch, 10-63 on Elm Street, unit 12 issued citation for speeding."
- Dispatch: "10-4, citation logged, continue monitoring traffic."
In this exchange, the officer communicates that a citation has been issued for a traffic violation. Using 10-63 ensures that dispatch is aware of enforcement activity, can track citations, and coordinates with other units to maintain traffic safety and law compliance.
Operational Purpose
10-63 is critical for documenting enforcement actions, deterring unsafe driving behavior, and maintaining records for follow-up or legal proceedings. Prompt reporting allows officers and dispatch to maintain situational awareness, manage multiple enforcement actions efficiently, and coordinate resources if additional units are required.
This code is commonly used for speeding violations, illegal parking, stop sign or signal infractions, reckless driving, and other motor vehicle law violations that result in a citation or official notice.
Officer Safety And Coordination
Declaring 10-63 ensures officers and dispatch maintain situational awareness and properly coordinate enforcement actions. Units may update location with 10-20, acknowledge instructions with 10-4, or indicate temporary unavailability with 10-6. Clear communication helps manage multiple enforcement activities safely and efficiently.
Variations And Agency Practices
Some agencies use 10-63 specifically for citations issued on moving violations, while others include warnings, written notices, or administrative actions. Local protocols may define the type of violation, required documentation, and whether follow-up actions or reporting are needed.
Plain-Language Alternatives
Agencies emphasizing plain-language communication may replace 10-63 with phrases such as:
- "Traffic citation issued."
- "Driver cited for violation."
- "Enforcement action documented."
Related 10-Codes
Codes commonly associated with 10-63 include 10-4 (acknowledgment), 10-20 (location), 10-23 (arrived on scene/standby), 10-50 (accident/crash report), and 10-61 (DUI/Intoxicated driver). Together, these codes support co