How should you convey a suspect vehicle description in 900 codes?

• A. In a concise format with key identifiers; avoid extraneous details.
• B. With lengthy narrative including every feature.
• C. By using a generic color only.
• D. By describing the driver rather than the vehicle.

Answer: (A)

In 900 code communications, speed and clarity are crucial, so vehicle descriptions should be concise and focused on features that help others identify the car at a glance. The best approach is to relay a brief format that hits the essential identifiers—color, make and model (and year if known), and, if available, the license plate or partial plate. Add any distinctive marks or modifications ( decals, damage, roof racks, unique decals ), plus the direction of travel and last seen location. This streamlined approach avoids extraneous details that can clutter the message and slow down response, ensuring other units can quickly spot the vehicle. Describing the driver instead of the vehicle or giving a lengthy narrative provides less actionable information and wastes radio time, while relying on a color alone or overloading the description with features makes identification harder, not easier.