Police officers are required to wear uniforms that match specific guidelines and rules in their town or state. This is to ensure the officers are well-groomed, look neat and project authority. Each part of their uniform is meant to help them effectively perform their job and keep them safe, whether they’re a plainclothes detective or uniformed officer. Let’s take a deeper look at the different parts of a police officer’s uniform.

Clothing

Police officers are required to wear a uniform every day that clearly displays they are law enforcement officers. This is typically blue or black slacks with a button-down, collared shirt. Their shirts will usually say “Police” in large letters on the back so people can still identify them as an officer from behind.

On the front of their shirt are their badge and nameplate. This identifies them further and offers verification that they are who they say are. Some officers, mainly detectives, might wear concealment vests under their jackets or shirts to keep a concealed firearm on their person.

Equipment

Officers also have a range of equipment as part of their uniforms. The first is their handgun and holster. Patrol officers are required to carry their handguns in a hip holster where they are visible to the public. This positioning allows for easy access in the event they need to draw or use their weapon.

They are also required to keep a radio on them at all times, typically placed on their shoulder. This is how they communicate with headquarters and some receive dispatch information. It’s supposed to remain on at all times and is their primary means of communication with other officers and the precinct.

Last but not least is their handcuffs. These are stored in an officer’s utility belt so they can easily access them if they need to arrest someone.