Metropolitan Police Department of the District of Columbia Policy Manual

The Metropolitan Police Department of the District of Columbia (MPD) publishes its full policy manual online, including General Orders, Special Orders, Manuals, and directives covering patrol, investigations, use of force, traffic, homeland security operations, crowd management, internal investigations, and administrative processes. As the primary law enforcement agency for the nation’s capital, MPD operates in a uniquely complex environment with federal properties, embassies, major events, political demonstrations, and multi-agency coordination.

For MPD promotion prep, begin by organizing the General Orders into a topic-based index: Use of Force, Patrol Operations, Arrests and Searches, Traffic and Pursuits, Reports and Documentation, Professional Conduct, Internal Investigations, Homeland Security, and Crowd Management. Focus first on high-liability sections such as force, pursuits, custody handling, and complaint intake. Then focus on directives tied to DC’s unique operating environment—major protests, special events, and federal building security. For each General Order, create a “Supervisor Action Sheet” summarizing what a sergeant or lieutenant must do when the policy is triggered.

High-priority MPD policy categories include:

- Use of Force and Tactical Considerations – definitions, reporting requirements, post-incident procedures.
- Arrest, Search, and Seizure – constitutional thresholds, DC code requirements, and supervisor checks.
- Vehicle Pursuits and Emergency Driving – strict policies for city traffic and multi-jurisdictional considerations.
- Crowd Management and First Amendment Assemblies – major MPD responsibility involving protests, demonstrations, and events.
- Homeland Security and Special Events – coordination with federal agencies, critical infrastructure, and dignitary protection.
- Professional Conduct, Ethics, and Internal Investigations – complaint intake, discipline, and officer rights.

Understanding how these interact in DC’s environment is essential for promotional readiness.

For MPD promotional exams:

1. Expect **scenario-based questions involving protests, large events, motorcades, or federal-area incidents**.
2. Highlight every supervisory duty across General Orders, especially regarding notifications, documentation, and on-scene responsibilities.
3. Create small comparison charts for pursuits, use of force, and crowd control options.
4. Study policy updates and Special Orders issued before testing—MPD updates its manual frequently.
5. Practice high-stress supervisory scenarios such as crowd dispersal, force review, or multi-agency coordination to build exam confidence.