The NJ Police Chief Magazine Volume 26, Number 4 | Page 7

Uniform Hand Signal Code For
Traffic Officers
Compiled and Published by the NJSACOP
Reprinted from the 1929 New Jersey Police Chief Magazine
INTRODUCTION
Believing New Jersey to have the finest set of motor vehicle and traffic laws in the United States for the guidance of
motorists, with the least amount of discomfort while in our State, the New Jersey State Association of Chiefs of
Police, recognizing the fact that police officers generally have or use a variation of hand signals, which each one
thinks is best, appointed a Committee for the purpose of devising a set of simple Hand Signals for Traffic Officers to
use to convey their directions to the motorist.
The New Jersey State Association of Chiefs of Police, with the idea of creating a uniform system of hand signals in
mind, asks that each and every officer to whom this booklet is given, will preserve and study the signals herein set
forth and described, and co-operate in creating a better understanding between the police officers and the motoring
public. By constant practice of these signals and the execution of them on the part of each individual officer, much
credit will be reflected upon the police department represented for the efficiency of its individual members.
The New Jersey State Association of Chiefs of Police would give this advice to the members of the various police
departments: Keep a smile on your face, in spite of the trials you undergo, and above all, have a kind word for the
other fellow even though he is in the wrong. Such treatment encourages the meek and timid driver to feel more at
ease, and will insure the ready co-operation of all motorists, and at the same time gaining more friends for you. The
result will be a pleasanter association between you and the motorist, and this will go a long way in making your
burdens lighter and in making the hours of the day or night speed by cheerfully.
The Chief of Police of the Department, should insist upon a drilling of his men in the use of this Code, so that they are
familiar with each and every detail.
STARTING
The traffic officer standing with body parallel with the traffic movement to be started, both
arms extended with hands above shoulder height, sweeping both arms in forward motion and
simultaneously surrounding two blasts of the police whistle.
The action of the traffic officer when stopping traffic on one street and starting it on an
intersecting street, gives opportunity for display of pep and training, which will reflect much
credit on the Police Department. Traffic officers should be drilled on these hand signals at
regular intervals, just as soldiers and sailors are drilled in certain
evolutions they perform.
START
STOP
The traffic officer standing with body parallel with moving traffic, with both arms extended
to a point where each hand is above shoulder height and palm facing out towards vehicles to
be stopped. At the same time the officer should blow one (1) blast of his police whistle.
STOP
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