MenuPolice Department FAQ
Below is a list of common questions we get at the Police Department.
Crime & Safety
Q: I would like to move to Raleigh and want to find out about crime in a certain area. How do I research this?
A: Once you have narrowed down the areas where you would like to live, you can use our crime mapping service to search crime in that area and on a specific street. Please click on "maps."
Q: How may I obtain a copy of a police report?
A: The Police Records Division, located at Police Headquarters, 6716 Six Forks Road, handles public requests for reports. Crash Reports are free of charge if you visit the Records counter or you can access it through the online system. Learn about getting police reports
Q: I would like more information on registering a firearm or obtaining a carry concealed permit. Who do I contact?
A: Visit the Wake County Sheriff's page
Q: I have spotted a suspicious person in my neighborhood/near my work, etc. How do I report this?
A: RPD encourages you to call 9-1-1 anytime you feel that a suspicious person may be in your area. An officer can respond and speak to the person to determine if the person is there legitimately. Be sure to describe the person and/or vehicle, if possible, to the 9-1-1 operator so an officer can recognize the person or vehicle at the scene.
Q: How do I search for crime in my area?
A: You can use our crime mapping service to search for crime on your street or area.
Employment
Q: I would like to become a RPD police officer. Where do I get more information and an application?
A: Visit our Police Recruitment page
Q: I would like to apply for a non-sworn position with the Police Department. Where can I find more information and apply?
A: Visit the City of Raleigh Employment page
Q: I need to be fingerprinted for an employment application. Where can I go to do this?
Traffic
Q: Where can I find out about traffic accidents?
A: The Traffic Accident Map and associated information is a capture of Raleigh - Wake County ECC (RWECC) computer-aided dispatch system's (CAD) active incidents, which updates every 15 minutes.
Q: Where can I get a copy of a traffic accident report that happened in Raleigh?
A: Search the Raleigh Police Department's Crash Report Database
Q: Where can I get traffic alerts?
A: Discover street closings that are planned and may affect traffic patterns across the city over the next several months.
Q: I have observed many drivers speeding through my neighborhood and I am afraid someone might get hurt. What can I do?
A: Please visit the Neighborhood Traffic Management page for more information.
Q: Where can I learn about traffic calming?
A: The City of Raleigh wishes to promote safe and efficient public streets that contribute to a positive quality of life for residents through various means. Neighborhood Traffic Management is one way towards this goal.
Q: Where can I pay a traffic ticket, or get more information on an outstanding ticket?
A: The Wake County Clerk of Court may have all your answers.
Q: How can I report an unsafe driver?
A: Citizens can report traffic violators or safety concerns by calling 9-1-1.
Courts, Jail and Fines
Q: I received a traffic citation. What do I do now?
A: Please visit the Clerk of Superior Court's website for more information about paying your citation.
Q: I would like to know the final outcome of a court trial. How do I find out if someone was convicted in court after their arrest?
A: The Clerk of Court is the records custodian for legal documents and court proceedings. The Clerk's number is 919-792-4000.
Q: I want visit someone that is currently in jail. What are the hours and guidelines?
A: To visit someone at the Wake County jail, please visit the Wake County Sheriff Office website for more information.
Q: I need to bail my brother out of jail. How do I do that?
A: You may either pay the bond in full, post a property bond or hire a bondsman to co-sign your bond for a 15% fee. For more information, visit Wake County's website.
Q: I need to get more information on an outstanding traffic ticket. Who do I speak with to pay my ticket?
A: The City of Raleigh offers ParkLink citation payments on-line through our Payment System. For more information, contact Customer Service Specialists at 919-996-3996.
