HPM 73.5

California
Highway Patrol
HPM 73.5
UNIFORM/GROOMING AND
EQUIPMENT STANDARDS
This publication contains material exempt from public

disclosure identified by a shaded overlay. Exempt
material shall not be disclosed outside the California
Highway Patrol except to allied agencies with their
agreement not to further disclose the information.
Safety, Service, and Security An Internationally Accredited Agency

DEPARTMENT OF CALIFORNIA HIGHWAY PATROL
UNIFORM/GROOMING AND EQUIPMENT STANDARDS
IMPORTANT
This publication contains material exempt from public disclosure
identified by a shaded overlay. Exempt material shall not be disclosed
outside the California Highway Patrol except to allied agencies with their
agreement not to disclose the information outside their agency.
THIS PUBLICATION MAY BE PURCHASED FROM THE

CALIFORNIA HIGHWAY PATROL.
REVISED SEPTEMBER 2011
LIBRARY DISTRIBUTION ACT
HPM 73.5
FOREWORD
It is of significant importance to the public image of the Department and to the morale of
its employees that standards are established for uniform apparel and equipment and for
the personal appearance of employees in uniform. To achieve maximum benefit from
such standards they must receive equal application at all levels of command.
This manual is the primary departmental publication on matters relating to uniforms. It

establishes policy and standards concerning the proper wearing of the uniform and for
the personal appearance of those so attired.
Other information and procedures on the subject of uniforms, formerly contained in

other departmental directives, have been consolidated into this manual.
The intent of this manual is to ensure uniformity in appearance of departmental

employees and simplification of its language for all to easily comprehend.
OFFICE OF THE COMMISSIONER
OPI: 091
HPM 73.5
TABLE OF CONTENTS
HIGHWAY PATROL MANUAL 73.5, UNIFORM/GROOMING AND EQUIPMENT

STANDARDS
OPI
CHAPTER 1 UNIFORM POLICY ............................................................................ 091
CHAPTER 2 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS ............................................................ 091
CHAPTER 3 GROOMING REQUIREMENTS ......................................................... 091
CHAPTER 4 SOFT BODY ARMOR ........................................................................ 091
CHAPTER 5 REGULATIONS FOR REQUIRED UNIFORM ITEMS ....................... 091
CHAPTER 6 REGULATIONS FOR OPTIONAL UNIFORM ITEMS ........................ 091
CHAPTER 7 REGULATIONS FOR SPECIALIZED UNIFORM ITEMS ................... 091
CHAPTER 8 WEARING OF THE UNIFORM–PROGRAM

OF ENTERTAINMENT ................................................................... 091
CHAPTER 9 NONUNIFORMED EMPLOYEE DRESS AND

GROOMING STANDARDS ............................................................. 091
CHAPTER 10 UNIFORM AND EQUIPMENT INSPECTION.................................... 091
CHAPTER 11 UNIFORM COMMITTEE ................................................................... 091
CHAPTER 12 UNIFORM ALLOWANCE .................................................................. 091
CHAPTER 13 STORAGE OF DEPARTMENT-ISSUED EQUIPMENT DURING

MILITARY ACTIVATION OF UNIFORMED EMPLOYEES ............ 091
HPM 73.5
CHAPTER 1
UNIFORM POLICY
REVISED MARCH 2015
TABLE OF CONTENTS
AUTHORIZED UNIFORMS .......................................................................................... 1-3

General ...................................................................................................................... 1-3
Policy ........................................................................................................................ 1-3
TYPES OF AUTHORIZED UNIFORMS ....................................................................... 1-3
Formal Uniform .......................................................................................................... 1-3
Work Uniform............................................................................................................. 1-4
Utility Uniform ............................................................................................................ 1-5
Cold Weather Uniform ............................................................................................... 1-8
CAMPAIGN HAT .......................................................................................................... 1-9
General ...................................................................................................................... 1-9
Policy for Wearing ..................................................................................................... 1-9
Public Contact ......................................................................................................... 1-10
ACCOUTERMENT POLICY ....................................................................................... 1-10
General .................................................................................................................... 1-10
Left Pocket............................................................................................................... 1-10
Right Pocket ............................................................................................................ 1-11
HELMETS .................................................................................................................. 1-11
General .................................................................................................................... 1-11
Decal Placement ..................................................................................................... 1-11
ANNEXES
A - REQUIRED ITEMS ............................................................................................... 1-13

B - FORMAL UNIFORM ............................................................................................. 1-15
C - WORK UNIFORM................................................................................................. 1-17
D - UTILITY UNIFORM .............................................................................................. 1-19
E - COLD WEATHER UNIFORM ............................................................................... 1-21
F - SPECIAL RESPONSE TEAM UNIFORM ............................................................. 1-23
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CHAPTER 1
UNIFORM POLICY
1. AUTHORIZED UNIFORMS.
a. General. To achieve the professional image expected of members of this

Department, each uniformed employee shall assume the responsibility for
presenting an appearance which is representative of the Department.
b. Policy.
(1) There are four types of uniforms authorized for wear by uniformed
employees of the California Highway Patrol (CHP). These uniforms are:
(a) Formal Uniform;
(b) Work Uniform;
(c) Utility Uniform; and
(d) Cold Weather Uniform.
(2) Each type of authorized uniform shall include the appropriate

accouterments, accessories, and equipment as listed in Annex A of this
chapter.
(3) The wearing of uniform items, accouterments, or equipment not authorized

by this manual is prohibited.
(4) All uniforms shall conform to the specifications contained in Highway

Patrol Guide (HPG) 73.6, Uniform and Equipment Specifications Guide, or the
specifications contained in bid packages for state purchased/issued uniform
items.
2. TYPES OF AUTHORIZED UNIFORMS.
a. Formal Uniform.
(1) Formal Uniform Required. All uniformed employees, regardless of rank or

assignment, shall possess and maintain a properly fitting formal uniform,
complete with required accouterments and equipment items, ready for
immediate use.
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(2) Intent. The intent of the formal uniform is to ensure all personnel present
as similar an appearance as possible at specific types of events, or when there
is a need for uniformity in the dress of CHP personnel.
(3) Policy for Wearing.
(a) The formal uniform shall be worn by all uniformed personnel when
representing the Department at official functions such as funerals,
memorial services, formal personnel inspections, Academy graduations,
award presentations, or as directed by an employee’s commander.
(b) Employees may wear the formal uniform as a work uniform at their
discretion. However, the formal uniform shall not be worn when the need
for uniformity or officer safety dictates otherwise.
(4) Composition of the Formal Uniform. The formal uniform consists of those
items listed in Annex B of this chapter.
b. Work Uniform.
(1) Intent. The intent of the work uniform is to provide uniformed employees
the discretion to wear alternate uniform items while still presenting a
professional law enforcement image during the performance of their duties.
(2) Policy for Wearing. Employees may wear the work uniform while
performing their regular duties unless otherwise directed by the employee’s
commander.
(3) Uniform Shirt. Except as provided in paragraph 2.b.(2) above, employees

may wear either the long-sleeved or short-sleeved shirt on a year-round basis,
as part of the work uniform.
(4) Composition of the Work Uniform. The work uniform consists of those
items listed in Annex C of this chapter.
(5) Work Uniform Neckwear Policy. The work uniform neckwear policy is
designed to give employees flexibility in choosing the type of neckwear which
best suits their individual comfort level. Within the parameters of this flexibility,
however, employees shall comply with the following requirements:
(a) Regardless of the type of shirt worn, employees shall at all times wear
some form of approved neckwear whenever a jacket is worn.
(b) When the green jacket is worn as part of the work uniform, it may only
be worn in conjunction with the long-sleeved shirt and tie.
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(c) Whenever the mock turtleneck or the dickey is worn, it shall be worn
over the undergarment shirt and under the uniform shirt. The
undergarment shirt shall not be visible.
NOTE: The previously authorized turtleneck and dickey with the CHP logo
monogram is only permitted for wear until no longer serviceable. The
turtleneck or dickey is to be worn in accordance with the policy outlined in
Chapter 6, Regulations for Optional Uniform Items, of this manual.
(d) The dickey may be worn under the short-sleeved shirt without a
jacket.
(e) The mock turtleneck or dickey may be worn under the

long-sleeved shirt without a jacket.
(f) Regardless of the type of neckwear worn with the work uniform, a
uniform shirt is always required.
(g) The necktie shall not be worn with the short-sleeved shirt unless a
jacket is worn.
(6) Undergarment Policy. If an undergarment is worn and visible with the tan
work uniform, it shall be white in color, irrespective of the color of the ballistic
vest carrier worn. The collar of the white undergarment shall not be frayed,
ragged, stretched to excess, discolored, or stained.
c. Utility Uniform.
(1) Utility Uniform Required. All uniformed employees, regardless of rank or

assignment, shall possess and maintain, ready for immediate use, a properly
fitting long-sleeved utility uniform, complete with shoulder patches,
departmental cloth badge, embroidered last name, and required equipment
items.
(2) Intent. The intent of the utility uniform is to provide uniformed employees
an alternative uniform to be worn at the direction of the employee’s Division
commander for civil disturbances, natural or man-made disasters, or any
circumstance in which duties would expose an employee’s regular work
uniform to excessive soiling and damage. The utility uniform is also intended
to provide specified personnel whose regular duties would expose their work
uniform to excessive soiling and damage an alternative uniform while they are
actually engaged in the performance of those duties.
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(3) Primary and Incidental Wearers. In lieu of the formal or work uniform,
personnel listed below as either primary or incidental wearers are authorized
to wear the utility uniform.
(a) Primary Wearers.
1 Definition. Primary wearers are those persons assigned on a

full-time basis to duties requiring the wearing of a uniform other than
the formal or work uniform.
2 Policy for Wearing. Primary wearers are authorized to wear the

utility uniform, the work uniform, or the formal uniform while engaged
in the performance of their duties.
3 Approved Primary Wearers.
a Uniformed personnel assigned to the Commercial Program
b Level 1 or 2 trained commercial officers, driving Specially

Marked Patrol Vehicles (SMPV) on a full-time basis
c Personnel permanently assigned to the Canine Program
d Bomb detection officers who are canine-equipped
e Full-time vehicle identification number (VIN) officers
f Division personnel permanently assigned to Multidisciplinary

Accident Investigation Teams (MAIT)
g Multidisciplinary Accident Investigation Teams’ associate

members while performing MAIT duties
(b) Incidental Wearers.
1 Definition. Incidental wearers are those persons who are

authorized to wear the utility uniform only while actually engaged in a
work task which necessitates the wearing of a uniform other than the
formal or work uniform.
2 Policy for Wearing. Incidental wearers are authorized to wear

either the utility uniform, the work uniform, or the formal uniform while
engaged in the performance of their duties.
3 Approved Incidental Wearers.
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a Area VIN officers
b Motorcycle officers (other than enforcement duties)
c Area training officers
d Area range/weapons officers
e Personnel driving an SMPV on a part-time/rotational basis
f Special services and commercial vehicle enforcement facility

commanders, while engaged in the activities directly related to
their primary responsibility
g Drug Recognition Evaluator, while conducting initial

certification evaluations
h Mobile Field Force members (including Type 1 Special

Response Teams) when actually engaged in emergency duties,
or as authorized by Assistant Commissioner, Field (Special
Response Team optional uniform items and accouterments are
listed in Annex F)
i Uniformed members, in response to the declaration of a

Tactical Alert
(4) Composition of the Utility Uniform. The utility uniform consists of the items
listed in Annex D of this chapter.
(5) Neckwear Policy. When a jacket is worn with the utility uniform, either the
mock turtleneck or dickey is required.
(6) Undergarment Policy. If an undergarment is worn and visible with the blue
utility uniform, it shall be dark navy blue in color, irrespective of the color of the
ballistic vest carrier worn. The specifications for the authorized dark navy blue
undergarment may be found in HPG 73.6, Chapter 2, Uniform Items.
(7) Departmental Cloth Badge Policy. The utility uniform shall have the
departmental cloth badge stitched to the area above the wearer’s left shirt
pocket of the utility uniform. The departmental cloth badge authorized for wear
is available through the Academy Post Exchange (PX). If a jacket is worn, a
departmental badge shall be attached to the outermost garment.
1-7 HPM 73.5

(8) Wearing of the Utility Uniform.
(a) When the utility uniform is worn with combat-style boots, the uniform
legs may be bloused.
(b) When the utility uniform is worn with any other style of footwear, the
uniform legs shall not be bloused.
(9) Prohibitions - Utility Uniforms.
(a) The material used to construct the shirt and trousers shall be the 65
percent polyester/35 percent cotton, “ripstop” material. The wearing of
any other type of utility uniform, coverall, or commercial uniform is
prohibited.
(b) The CHP back patch is no longer authorized.
d. Cold Weather Uniform.
(1) Intent. The intent of the cold weather uniform is that it be worn only by
employees in designated cold weather Areas.
(2) Definition of Cold Weather Areas. Cold weather Areas are those
commands, designated by the Division commander, where:
(a) Extremely cold weather conditions are seasonally normal on an

annual basis.
(b) An employee’s health, welfare, or ability to perform required duties

would be impacted by lack of special cold weather clothing.
(c) The work or formal uniform would provide inadequate protection

against cold weather.
(3) Policy for Wearing. Employees assigned to designated cold weather

Areas may wear the cold weather uniform while performing their regular duties
during periods of cold weather unless directed otherwise by their commander.
(4) Composition of the Cold Weather Uniform. The cold weather uniform is
comprised of the items listed in Annex E of this chapter.
(5) Neckwear Policy. When a jacket is worn with the cold weather uniform,
either the mock turtleneck or dickey is required.
(6) Acquisition of Cold Weather Uniform Items. Employees assigned to

designated cold weather Areas may requisition the cold weather cap and
HPM 73.5 1-8

insulated boots pursuant to procedures outlined in Highway Patrol Manual
(HPM) 11.2, Materials Management, Chapter 10, Police Protective and Safety
Equipment-Uniformed Employees. The cold weather jumpsuit may be
purchased and worn by employees assigned to designated cold weather Areas
at the employee’s own expense.
(7) Prohibited Items. The long, blue car coat, also known as the cold weather
coat, is not authorized. The long, blue car coat, or cold weather coat, is not to
be confused with the parka, which is an authorized cold weather uniform item.
See Chapter 6 of this manual for parka specifications.
(8) Undergarment Policy. If an undergarment is worn and visible with the cold
weather uniform, it shall be dark navy blue in color, irrespective of the color of
the ballistic vest carrier worn.
3. CAMPAIGN HAT.
a. General.
(1) There are two versions of campaign hats available for uniformed
employees: the required felt campaign hat and the optional straw campaign
hat. The straw campaign hat may be worn year round unless decorum dictates
otherwise.
(2) All uniformed employees, regardless of rank, shall possess the felt
campaign hat for their particular rank, complete with a hat/cap piece and
appropriate accouterments.
(3) When performing patrol duties, uniformed employees operating a patrol

car shall keep the campaign hat (felt or straw) readily available within the
vehicle.
b. Policy for Wearing. The campaign hat shall be worn by uniformed employees
under the following conditions:
(1) As part of the formal uniform when attending official functions such as
funerals, memorial services, formal personnel inspections, Academy
graduations, awards presentations, or as directed by the commander.
(2) When uniformed employees are performing traffic control or crowd control
duties and peace officer recognition is essential.
(3) When on the grounds or within the confines of the State Capitol, all
uniformed employees shall wear the approved hat.
1-9 HPM 73.5

c. Public Contact. All uniformed employees should wear the campaign hat (if, in
the uniformed employee’s opinion, time and circumstances permit) during critical
uniformed employee-public contacts (e.g., accident scenes, media contacts) where
a high degree of officer recognition is essential.
4. ACCOUTERMENT POLICY.
a. General.
(1) Only the accouterments/pins authorized in this manual are to be worn by

CHP personnel while in uniform. Accouterments are to be worn on the
formal/work uniform and green dress jacket only.
(2) The only authorized accouterment for wearing on the blue patrol jacket
and/or cold weather jumpsuit is the badge. All other items may damage the
integrity of the material.
(3) The accouterments shall be placed on the uniform from the wearer’s
perspective from left to right.
b. Left Pocket. The left pocket flap is reserved solely for the Medal of Valor,
Officer of the Year, United States (U.S.) flag, U.S. military flag, or other special pin
(e.g., Peace Officers’ Memorial), as determined by the Commissioner.
(1) The Medal of Valor pin shall be attached to the left pocket flap of the shirt
or green dress jacket, 1/2 inch below the top edge of the flap and centered
above the button.
(2) The Officer of the Year pin shall be attached to the left pocket flap of the
shirt or green dress jacket, one inch to the left of the right edge and centered
midway between the top and bottom of the flap. Officers who have received an
Officer of the Year pin, and wish to wear the U.S. flag pin, may attach the
Officer of the Year pin on the left pocket flap of the shirt or green dress jacket,
one inch to the right of the left edge and centered midway between the top and
bottom of the flap.
(3) The U.S. flag pin may be attached to the left pocket flap of the shirt or
green dress jacket, one inch to the left of the right edge and centered midway
between the top and bottom of the flap.
(4) Employees who have been honorably discharged from one of the U.S.
armed forces, or who are currently serving in the active or reserve forces, may
wear the U.S. military flag pin. These dual flag pins shall be worn in lieu of,
and in the same location as, the U.S. flag pin. These pins are optional and
HPM 73.5 1-10

purchased at the employee’s expense. The Academy PX carries pins for the
U.S. Air Force, Army, Coast Guard, Marines, and Navy. The lapel pins sold at
the Academy are the only authorized brand and size.
(5) Special pins authorized for short-term wear, such as the Peace Officer’s
Memorial pin, are to be worn only during a specified time period and in the
manner designated by the Commissioner.
c. Right Pocket.
(1) No more than three departmentally authorized pins are allowed to be worn
on the right uniform pocket, or green dress jacket, at any time.
(2) Officers may choose which three pins they elect to wear from the pins they
have earned.
(3) Pins are to be placed on the right pocket flap, beginning on the inside and
working out.
(4) If multiple pins are worn, the smallest pin is to be worn in the middle above
the button.
(5) No pins are to be worn above the name tag.
5. HELMETS.
a. General.
(1) The U.S. flag decals shall be placed on all motorcycle, mounted duty,
bicycle patrol, and aviation helmets.
(2) Only those decals obtained through the departmental supply services
process shall be affixed to the helmets.
b. Decal Placement.
(1) Motorcycle and Mounted Duty Helmets. The U.S. flag decals shall be
centered on the back of the helmet in the black portion, 1/2 inch below the gold
edge.
(2) Bicycle Helmets. The U.S. flag decals shall be centered on the left side of
the helmet directly above the CHP logo.
(3) Aviation Helmets. The U.S. flag decals shall be centered on the back of
the helmet, 1-1/2 inches above the base of the helmet.
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ANNEX A
REQUIRED ITEMS
EQUIPMENT AND ACCOUTERMENTS REQUIRED FOR ALL UNIFORM

COMBINATIONS
1. The following items are required regardless of type of uniform worn:

a. Departmental badge (the cloth badge is required for wear on the utility
uniform).
b. Departmental identification card.
c. Valid driver license.
d. Duty belt complete with double-magazine pouch, two fully-loaded
magazines, handcuff case, holster, and side-handle baton ring.
e. Primary weapon (S&W 4006 TSW) with a fully-loaded magazine and
chambered round of ammunition.
f. Soft body armor.
g. Approved baton.
h. Handcuffs and key.
i. Flashlight (during hours of darkness).
j. Aerosol projector holster with a canister of oleoresin capsicum.
k. Approved footwear.
l. Socks.
m. Trouser belt.
n. Pen (black or blue ink) or pencil.
o. Insignia of rank (as applicable).
p. Service stripes (green jacket, tan long-sleeve shirt).
q. Nameplate (see paragraph 4.a.[2] of this chapter for exception to wearing
on the outer garment).
r. Pocket or wrist watch.
2. Weapons, Holsters, Magazine Pouches, and Ammunition. Refer to Highway

Patrol Manual 70.8, Firearms Manual, for instructions and specifications regarding
weapons, holsters, magazine pouches, and ammunition.
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ANNEX B
FORMAL UNIFORM
REQUIRED UNIFORM AND ACCOUTERMENTS FOR FORMAL UNIFORM
In addition to the items listed in Annex A of this chapter, the following items are
required as part of the formal uniform:
1. Departmental hat/cap piece.
2. Felt campaign hat or helmet (as applicable). The cap is authorized for
assistant chief and above.
3. Green dress jacket with shoulder patches (aiguillette as required).
4. Long-sleeve shirt with shoulder patches (55 percent dacron

polyester/45 percent wool gabardine).
5. Necktie or bow tie (as applicable).
6. Trousers or breeches (as applicable) - 100 percent wool.
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ANNEX C
WORK UNIFORM
UNIFORM AND ACCOUTERMENTS FOR WORK UNIFORM
In addition to the items listed in Annex A of this chapter, the work uniform may
consist of those items listed under Formal Uniform and may also include the
following optional items:
1. Straw campaign hat.
2. Blue patrol jacket.
3. Leather jacket (motorcycle duty only).
4. Long-sleeve shirt with shoulder patches - 55 percent dacron

polyester/45 percent wool gabardine (tropical weave).
5. Neckwear
a. Long-sleeve shirt - Necktie, bow tie, mock turtleneck, or dickey (no

jacket. required).
b. Short-sleeve shirt - Dickey (no jacket required).
c. Short-sleeve shirt - Necktie or bow tie (jacket required).
6. Short-sleeve shirt with shoulder patches.
7. Trousers - 55 percent dacron polyester/45 percent wool.
Other than the mock turtleneck or dickey, all visible undergarments shall be
white in color.
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HPM 73.5 1-18

ANNEX D
UTILITY UNIFORM
UNIFORM AND ACCOUTERMENTS FOR UTILITY UNIFORM
In addition to the items listed in Annex A of this chapter, the utility uniform may
consist of the items listed below:
1. Cotton utility cap. Authorized only for those officers assigned to specific
duties or under specific circumstances as stated in Chapter 6, Regulations
for Optional Uniform Items, paragraph 2.ee., of this manual.
3. Mock turtleneck or dickey.
4. The blue utility uniform shall be comprised of the following:

65 percent polyester/35 percent cotton ripstop material; navy blue in color;
long- or short-sleeved; and complete with a departmental cloth badge,
shoulder patches, and embroidered last name. The blue utility uniform may
be treated with a Teflon© fabric protector.
5. Navy blue undergarment.
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HPM 73.5 1-20

ANNEX E
COLD WEATHER UNIFORM
UNIFORM AND ACCOUTERMENTS FOR COLD WEATHER UNIFORM
In addition to the items listed in Annex A of this chapter, the cold weather uniform
may consist of the items listed below:
1. Cold weather cap with cap piece.
2. Cold weather jumpsuit (uniform shirt and trousers are not required to be worn
with the cold weather jumpsuit).
4. Parka.
5. Mock turtleneck or dickey.
6. Insulated boots.
7. Cotton utility cap (only authorized when worn in conjunction with the cold
weather jumpsuit).
Other than the mock turtleneck or mock dickey, all visible undergarments shall be
dark navy blue in color.
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HPM 73.5 1-22

ANNEX F
SPECIAL RESPONSE TEAM UNIFORM
UNIFORM AND ACCOUTERMENTS FOR SPECIAL RESPONSE TEAM
In addition to the items listed in Annex D of this chapter, the Special Response
Team uniform may consist of the items listed below:
1. Kevlar® tactical helmet with face shield.
2. Black “turtle suit/vest” style protective pads (front and back upper
torso).
3. Black knee, shin, ankle, and foot guard combination.
4. Black elbow pads and knee pads.
5. Black leather gloves.
6. Black ballistic nylon web belt.
7. Black ballistic nylon belt slide loops (keeper straps), handcuff case(s),
aerosol projector holster, baton ring, magazine pouch.
8. Black ballistic nylon or molded nylon drop style holster.
9. Black ballistic nylon backpack/gear carryall (twin shoulder strap style).
10. Hydration pack (Camelbak® or equivalent).
11. Blue cotton utility cap.
12. Black ballistic belt clip for gas mask carrying bag.
13. Black molded nylon flashlight holder.
14. Black two-cell lithium flashlight (Streamlight® or equivalent).
1-23 HPM 73.5

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CHAPTER 2
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
REVISED MAY 2019
TABLE OF CONTENTS
DUTY REQUIREMENTS.............................................................................................. 2-3

Required Uniforms..................................................................................................... 2-3
Exceptions ................................................................................................................. 2-3
Civilian Attire ............................................................................................................. 2-3
DEFINITIONS .............................................................................................................. 2-3
Appropriate Civilian Attire .......................................................................................... 2-3
Uniformed Employee ................................................................................................. 2-3
Nonuniformed Employee ........................................................................................... 2-3
DECORUM ................................................................................................................... 2-4
Public Attention to Uniform ........................................................................................ 2-4
Responsibility of Commanders .................................................................................. 2-4
Responsibility of Employees ...................................................................................... 2-4
PERSONAL APPEARANCE–UNIFORM/EQUIPMENT MAINTENANCE .................... 2-4
Uniform/Equipment Maintenance .............................................................................. 2-4
Undergarments .......................................................................................................... 2-4
Mock Turtleneck ........................................................................................................ 2-5
LEGAL REQUIREMENTS ............................................................................................ 2-5
CADET UNIFORM REQUIREMENTS.......................................................................... 2-5
2-1 HPM 73.5

HPM 73.5 2-2

CHAPTER 2
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
1. DUTY REQUIREMENTS.
a. Required Uniforms. All uniformed employees, regardless of rank or

assignment, shall possess and maintain, for immediate use, a properly fitting formal
uniform and long-sleeve blue utility uniform, complete with required accouterments
and equipment items.
b. Exceptions. While on duty, all uniformed employees, regardless of rank, shall

wear the appropriate uniform and equipment designated for their assignment,
except:
(1) When attending court where wearing the uniform is impractical or

unauthorized.
(2) When commanders authorize uniformed employees to wear appropriate

civilian attire when such attire will enhance departmental representation and/or
employee participation.
(3) When commanders direct pregnant uniformed employees assigned to

limited duty to wear appropriate civilian attire because the term of pregnancy is
such that wearing the uniform is impractical.
(4) At the discretion of Division commanders, uniformed employees at the

rank of captain and above, and lieutenants assigned as Area/section
commanders (including acting commanders), may wear appropriate civilian
attire, as deemed necessary.
c. Civilian Attire. Authorization to wear civilian attire in lieu of the departmental

uniform shall not detract from the public image of the Department.
2. DEFINITIONS.
a. Appropriate Civilian Attire. Attire that is conservative, contemporary, and

consistent with a business environment.
b. Uniformed Employee. Individual sworn as a peace officer and employed by

the Department of California Highway Patrol (CHP).
c. Nonuniformed Employee. Individual not sworn as a peace officer, employed

by the CHP.
2-3 HPM 73.5

3. DECORUM.
a. Public Attention to Uniform. Uniformed employees, while on duty, are subject

to public scrutiny. The mere presence of a uniformed employee at a location or
establishment which is perceived as inconsistent with law enforcement activities
can bring censure to the employee and embarrassment to the Department, unless
the employee is obviously conducting business within the scope and course of their
law enforcement duties.
b. Responsibility of Commanders. Commanders shall ensure local procedures

are adequate to protect the image and reputation of the Department.
c. Responsibility of Employees. Employees shall be responsible for using sound

discretion in their conduct while in uniform. Employees shall avoid conduct that
would debase law enforcement or detract from the Department’s image.
4. PERSONAL APPEARANCE–UNIFORM/EQUIPMENT MAINTENANCE.
a. Uniform/Equipment Maintenance.
(1) Garments shall be neat, clean, properly pressed, and tailored.
(2) Leather items shall not be cracked, faded, or excessively worn.
(3) Metal snaps shall be polished.
(4) Accouterments and badges shall be clean, but not polished.
(5) Uniformed employees shall use sound discretion in wearing repaired or

altered uniform and equipment items.
(a) Uniform and equipment items which detract from the employee’s
appearance shall not be worn.
(b) Immediate commanders shall determine the propriety of wearing

questionable uniform and equipment items.
b. Undergarments. Visible undergarments shall be dark navy blue when wearing

the utility uniform and the cold weather uniform. Visible undergarments shall be
white while wearing any departmental uniform other than the utility uniform or the
cold weather uniform. All visible undergarments shall:
(1) Be without stains or spots.
(2) Not be frayed or ragged.
HPM 73.5 2-4

(3) Be without designs or logos.
(4) Not extend beyond the cuffs of the shirt sleeves.
c. Mock Turtleneck. Mock turtleneck sleeves shall not:
(1) Extend beyond the cuffs of the long-sleeve shirt.
(2) Be worn with the short-sleeve shirt.
5. LEGAL REQUIREMENTS. California Penal Code (PC) Section 12590 establishes

legal restrictions on individuals, including peace officers, who are engaged in picketing
or informational activities related to a concerted refusal to work. Due to the nature of
this law and its applicability to CHP employees, PC Section 12590 is included in its
entirety.
“(a) Any person who does any of the following acts while engaged in picketing, or
other informational activities in a public place relating to a concerted refusal to
work, is guilty of a misdemeanor:
(1) Carries concealed upon his person or within any vehicle which is under his or
her control or direction any pistol, revolver, or other firearm capable of being
concealed upon the person.
(2) Carries a loaded firearm upon his or her person or within any vehicle which is
under his or her control or direction.
(3) Carries a deadly weapon.
(4) Wears the uniform of a peace officer, whether or not the person is a peace
officer.
(b) This section shall not be construed to authorize or ratify any picketing or other
informational activities not otherwise authorized by law.
(c) Section 12027 shall not be construed to authorize any conduct described in
paragraph (1) of subdivision (a), nor shall subdivision (b) of Section 12031 be
construed to authorize any conduct described in paragraph (2) of subdivision (a).”
6. CADET UNIFORM REQUIREMENTS. Cadets graduating from the Academy will

be required to purchase and maintain a minimum of two long-sleeve uniform shirts, two
short-sleeve uniform shirts, one blue necktie, one form of alternate neckwear, two pairs
of uniform trousers, two complete sets of utility uniforms (one must be long-sleeved),
one blue patrol jacket, one green dress jacket, and one felt campaign hat.
2-5 HPM 73.5

HPM 73.5 2-6

CHAPTER 3
GROOMING REQUIREMENTS
REVISED JUNE 2021
TABLE OF CONTENTS
UNIFORMED EMPLOYEES ........................................................................................ 3-3

Responsibility ............................................................................................................ 3-3
Personal Grooming.................................................................................................... 3-3
BODY ART ................................................................................................................... 3-5
CARE AND CLEANING OF UNIFORM GARMENTS................................................... 3-6
Uniform Garments ..................................................................................................... 3-6
Campaign Hats .......................................................................................................... 3-7
Badge and Hat/Cap Piece ......................................................................................... 3-8
3-1 HPM 73.5

HPM 73.5 3-2

CHAPTER 3
GROOMING REQUIREMENTS
1. UNIFORMED EMPLOYEES.
a. Responsibility. Uniformed employees shall assume the responsibility of

adopting high standards for personal grooming and cleanliness.
b. Personal Grooming. The following grooming standards are deemed

reasonable and shall be the minimum standards for uniformed employees while in
uniform or appropriate civilian attire to achieve the professional, business-like
image expected of members of this Department.
(1) Hair.
(a) Hair shall be neat, clean, trimmed, and present a groomed

appearance.
(b) Hair shall not interfere with the proper wearing of the uniform hat/cap
or helmet, or other uniform safety equipment.
(c) Hair shall not extend below the top of the uniform shirt collar while
sitting or standing in an erect position.
(d) Hair shall not cover any part of the outside portion of the ears.
(e) Hair which is styled or combed forward shall not be lower than the
relaxed eyebrows of an individual, measured from the high point of the
eyebrows, and shall not be visible on the forehead while the uniform
hat/cap or helmet is worn.
(f) Decorations shall not be worn in the hair. Hair clips and pins that
match the color of the hair are permitted.
(g) Hair shall not be worn in a “pony tail” or similar style.
(h) Unusual hair styles or colors that are considered extreme or faddish
are prohibited, including, but not limited to, unnatural hair coloring,
mohawks, or any style that presents an unprofessional or disheveled
appearance.
(i) Moderate natural and other hairstyles are permitted if conforming with
the hair standards described above; however, the maximum extension
from the scalp shall not exceed two inches.
3-3 HPM 73.5

(j) Braids, twists, and locks are permitted.
(k) Sideburns and Mustaches.
1 Uniformed employees shall be clean-shaven; however, neatly

trimmed sideburns and mustaches are permissible.
2 Sideburns shall not extend below the bottom of the ears and shall
end with a clean-shaven horizontal line. The maximum width at the
bottom of the sideburns shall not exceed 1 1/2 inches.
3 Mustaches shall not extend more than 1/2 inch beyond the
corners of the mouth nor below the vermillion border of the upper lip,
or more than 1/4 inch below the corner of the mouth. Waxed ends or
points are prohibited.
(2) Cosmetics.
(a) Cosmetics shall be subdued and blended to match the natural skin
color of the individual.
(b) False eyelashes are prohibited.
(3) Fingernails.
(a) Fingernails shall be clean and trimmed and shall not extend beyond
the tips of the fingers.
(b) Fingernail polish shall be clear.
(4) Brassieres. Brassieres shall provide adequate support.
(5) Authorized Jewelry. The following jewelry may be worn while in uniform,
or while on duty in appropriate civilian attire:
(a) In Uniform.
1 Medical or identification bracelets.
2 A total of two conservative rings (a wedding and engagement ring

set is considered one ring).
(b) In Civilian Attire.
1 Earrings:
HPM 73.5 3-4

a Only two are allowed, one in each earlobe.
b Pierced ear, stud-type only (no hook-type earrings).
c Solid color.
d Not over 4.0 millimeters in diameter.
e No departmental reimbursement for loss or damage.
2 A total of one conservative necklace.
a Not to exceed 24 inches in length, typically reaching just

above the sternum.
b Not to exceed 3.0 millimeters in thickness.
c Pendant size not to exceed one inch in diameter,

approximately the size of a quarter.
d No departmental reimbursement for loss or damage.
(6) Prohibited Jewelry. The wearing of any other visible jewelry items not
permitted by this manual is prohibited.
2. BODY ART. All uniformed employees and cadets are prohibited from displaying
any body art, tattoo(s), brand(s), intentional scarring, mutilation, or dental ornamentation
while on duty or representing the Department in any official capacity.
a. A uniformed employee or cadet with body art, tattoo(s), brand(s), intentional

scarring, and/or mutilation that is visible shall utilize the following options:
(1) Cover the body art, tattoo(s), brand(s), intentional scarring, and/or
mutilation by wearing the long-sleeve uniform shirt and/or uniform
trousers/breeches.
(2) Cover the body art, tattoo(s), brand(s), intentional scarring, and/or
mutilation with a skin tone patch or makeup. (Note: Fabric sleeves and
nonadhesive coverings, such as gauze, medical bandages, cloth, etc., are not
considered patches and therefore are not authorized.)
(3) Have the tattoo(s) or brand(s) removed at the employee’s expense.
b. Body art, tattoo(s), brand(s), intentional scarring, and/or mutilation that is not
able to be covered or concealed is prohibited. This includes, but is not limited to,
3-5 HPM 73.5

foreign objects inserted under the skin; pierced, split, or forked tongue; and/or
stretched-out holes in the ears.
c. Uniformed employees and cadets shall not have any dental ornamentation.
The use of gold, platinum, silver, and/or other veneer caps for the purpose of
ornamentation is prohibited. Teeth, whether natural, capped, or veneered, shall not
be ornamented with designs, jewels, initials, etc.
3. CARE AND CLEANING OF UNIFORM GARMENTS.
a. Uniform Garments.
(1) Brushing. Uniform garments should be brushed with a soft-bristled brush

and aired after each use. Brushing aids in removing soil particles and fluffs the
nap while the natural moisture in the air revives the texture.
(2) Storage. When storing uniform garments in a closet, place the garments
on sturdy, well-shaped hangers in sufficient space to allow the garments to
hang freely. Trousers should be hung from cuff hangers.
(3) Moisture. As soon as practicable, wet uniform garments should be

allowed to dry at normal room temperature, away from direct heat, then
brushed thoroughly; the wool will recover its original texture.
(4) Staining or Spotting. Uniform garments may become stained or spotted

before it is convenient to send them to a dry cleaner. The following guidelines
for stain removal may be useful for such emergencies:
(a) Blood. Blot with concentrated common starch paste and rinse from
the backside of the uniform fabric with mild soapy water. Do not use hot
water.
(b) Chocolate. Sponge with mild soapy water.
(c) Coffee. Sponge with glycerin.
(d) Egg. Scrape and sponge with soapy water.
(e) Glue. Sponge with alcohol.
(f) Iodine. Treat with cool water, followed by alcohol.
(g) Mud. Allow to dry, then brush and sponge from the backside of the
uniform fabric with soapy water.
HPM 73.5 3-6

b. Campaign Hats.
(1) Felt Campaign Hat.
(a) Felt campaign hats should be brushed with a long, soft-bristled brush.
(b) When the felt campaign hat is temporarily not in use, it should be
placed crown down on a clean, flat surface. When the hat is not in use for
an extended period of time, it should be placed into its box, ensuring the
head strap is removed. The brim press cardboard insert should always be
placed on the hat to maintain the rigidness and straightness of the brim.
(c) When storing the campaign hat, place it in a cool, dry place.
(d) A plastic rain cover for the felt campaign hat should always be readily
available for inclement weather. If the hat becomes water-soaked
(e.g., sudden shower, dropped in a puddle), it should be dried naturally on
a clean surface after removing the brim cord and head strap.
(e) If the felt campaign hat becomes damp from perspiration, the leather
inside should be turned out and the hat rested on the leather rim.
(f) Commercial fabric spot removers should remove most oil stains or
spots. Dab the spot remover on a soft, dry rag, allowing it to evaporate
almost completely before cleaning the felt campaign hat. (The spot
remover’s vapors, not the liquid itself, perform the actual spot or stain
removal.) Feather out toward the edges of the stain or spot.
(g) The recommended technique for entering and exiting a patrol vehicle
is with the felt campaign hat in hand. When in a patrol vehicle, the hat
should be stored where it will not be in direct sunlight.
(2) Straw Campaign Hat.
(a) The majority of the care and cleaning instructions for the felt
campaign hat also apply to the straw campaign hat.
(b) Because the straw campaign hat has been waterproofed, warm water
and soap should be attempted before trying a commercial cleaning
product if staining or spotting occurs.
3-7 HPM 73.5

c. Badge and Hat/Cap Piece.
(1) Preferred Method.
(a) Wash in warm, soapy water, using a cloth or brush, then rinse with
warm water.
(b) Dry by carefully blotting with a soft cloth or towel. (Never polish or rub
with abrasive materials, such as scouring powders and pads, or steel
wool.)
(2) Alternate Method.
(a) Place aluminum foil in the bottom of a pan, cover with warm water and
sprinkle with Oakite.
(b) Place the badge in the Oakite solution and let it soak for 15 minutes.
(c) Rinse and then dry by carefully blotting with a soft cloth or towel.
HPM 73.5 3-8

CHAPTER 5
REGULATIONS FOR REQUIRED UNIFORM ITEMS
REVISED DECEMBER 2018
TABLE OF CONTENTS
POLICY ........................................................................................................................ 5-3

General...................................................................................................................... 5-3
Uniform Restrictions .................................................................................................. 5-3
Wearing the Uniform.................................................................................................. 5-3
INSTRUCTIONS FOR WEARING AND PLACEMENT OF REQUIRED ITEMS........... 5-3
Departmental Badge.................................................................................................. 5-3
Departmental Cloth Badge ........................................................................................ 5-3
Campaign Hat ........................................................................................................... 5-4
Cap ............................................................................................................................ 5-5
Helmet-Motorcycle..................................................................................................... 5-5
Headwear-Specialized............................................................................................... 5-5
Shirt ........................................................................................................................... 5-6
Ties............................................................................................................................ 5-6
Green Dress Jacket ................................................................................................... 5-6
Blue Patrol Jacket...................................................................................................... 5-7
Blue Patrol Jacket Inner Shell ................................................................................... 5-7
Trousers and Breeches ............................................................................................. 5-7
Utility Uniform ............................................................................................................ 5-7
Trouser Belt ............................................................................................................... 5-7
Socks......................................................................................................................... 5-8
Footwear ................................................................................................................... 5-8
Nylon Duty Belt .......................................................................................................... 5-9
Handcuffs and Key .................................................................................................... 5-9
Handcuff Case ........................................................................................................... 5-9
Time Piece ................................................................................................................ 5-9
Pen (Black or Blue Ink) or Pencil ............................................................................... 5-9
Flashlight ................................................................................................................... 5-9
Aiguillette (Shoulder Cord) ...................................................................................... 5-10
Service Stripes ........................................................................................................ 5-10
Insignia of Rank ....................................................................................................... 5-11
Tribute of Mourning Ribbon ..................................................................................... 5-17
Nameplate ............................................................................................................... 5-18
Uniformed Safety Recognition Emblem ................................................................... 5-18
Holster, Aerosol Projector........................................................................................ 5-18
Aerosol Subject Restraint Spray .............................................................................. 5-19
5-1 HPM 73.5

Baton, Side Handle.................................................................................................. 5-19
Primary Weapon ...................................................................................................... 5-19
Soft Body Armor ...................................................................................................... 5-19
Extender Holster ...................................................................................................... 5-19
High-Visibility Reflective Safety Vest ....................................................................... 5-19
ANNEX
A – GENERAL GUIDELINES FOR REQUIRED UNIFORM

AND EQUIPMENT ITEMS ................................................................................ 5-21
HPM 73.5 5-2

CHAPTER 5
REGULATIONS FOR REQUIRED UNIFORM ITEMS
1. POLICY.
a. General. This chapter covers the wearing of required uniform items.
b. Uniform Restrictions.
(1) Civilian clothing shall not be worn or visible in conjunction with any
distinguishable part of the uniform within public view.
(2) The wearing of any part of the California Highway Patrol (CHP) uniform
while engaged in secondary employment is prohibited.
c. Wearing the Uniform. Uniformed employees shall comply with the instructions
contained in this chapter while wearing the uniform and required equipment items
contained in this manual.
2. INSTRUCTIONS FOR WEARING AND PLACEMENT OF REQUIRED ITEMS.
a. Departmental Badge. The departmental badge shall always be attached to the

badge holder on the outermost garment while in uniform to readily identify
uniformed employees.
b. Departmental Cloth Badge. When the cloth badge is worn, the employee’s last
name shall be embroidered above the right pocket, as specified in Highway Patrol
Guide (HPG) 73.6, Uniform and Equipment Specifications Guide, Chapter 2,
Uniform Items. The departmental cloth badge is only authorized for wear on the
following uniform items:
(1) Blue utility uniform
(2) Liner of the blue patrol jacket when it is worn as an outer garment
(3) Air operations flight suit
(4) Air operations Nomex® flight jacket
(5) Investigator rapid deployment vest
(6) Special Response Team vest
5-3 HPM 73.5

(7) Bicycle patrol shirt
(8) Bicycle patrol jacket
(9) Tactical Flight Vest
(10) Call-out jacket (on chest pocket flap)
c. Campaign Hat. When performing patrol duties, employees shall keep the
campaign hat readily available within their patrol vehicle.
(1) There are 2 versions of the campaign hat available for uniformed
employees: the required felt campaign hat and the optional straw campaign
hat.
(2) The felt/straw campaign hat shall be worn with the front of the brim tilted
slightly forward, as depicted below.
(3) Uniformed employees shall maintain the felt/straw campaign hat with the
appropriate brim cord for their particular rank.
(a) Officer: cord and acorns to be royal blue.
(b) Sergeant, lieutenant, and captain: cord to be striped with royal blue
and “Gold CD” metallic mylar. Acorns to be royal blue.
(c) Assistant Chief, Chief, Assistant Commissioner, Deputy

Commissioner, and Commissioner: cord and acorns to be Gold CD
metallic mylar.
HPM 73.5 5-4

d. Cap. Uniformed employees at the rank of Assistant Chief and above shall
possess and maintain both the cap and felt campaign hat for their particular rank,
complete with hat/cap piece, and appropriate accouterments. Uniformed
employees at the rank of Assistant Chief and above should wear the appropriate
headwear as indicated below.
(1) Headwear shall be worn when in attendance at official functions. The cap
shall be worn, unless a specific uniform has been designated by the
Commissioner or responsible commander (i.e., campaign hat).
(2) The visor on the cap may be at a 30-degree or 35-degree angle.
e. Helmet-Motorcycle.
(1) Uniformed employees assigned to motorcycle duty shall wear the

Department-issued motorcycle helmet (with the chin strap fastened while
operating a motorcycle).
(2) Motorcycle Cap Piece. The motorcycle cap piece shall be centered on the
front of the helmet, with the bottom edge of the “Highway Patrol” ribbon
1/2 inch above the top edge of the helmet visor. Motorcycle cap pieces shall
be affixed to the helmet using 1/16-inch thickness polyurethane foam tape.
Prior to applying the cap piece, existing motorcycle decals or residue should be
removed by using warm water and a mild detergent.
f. Headwear-Specialized.
(1) Uniformed employees assigned to flight duty shall wear either the
Department-issued aviation helmet or a headset during all flight operations.
(2) Uniformed employees whose assignment includes vehicle inspection as a

primary duty may wear the scalp guard in lieu of the Class A hat/cap. The
scalp guard shall be worn when performing under-the-hood or under-vehicle
inspections.
(3) When approved by the Commissioner, other specialized headwear (e.g.,

tactical riot helmets) may be worn by uniformed employees to accomplish a
particular assignment.
(4) Uniformed employees assigned to bicycle duty shall wear the Department-
issued bicycle helmet (with the chin strap fastened while operating the bicycle).
(5) Uniformed employees assigned to mounted duty shall wear the

Department-issued mounted helmet (with the chin strap fastened while on
mounted duty).
5-5 HPM 73.5

g. Shirt. The long-sleeve shirt shall be worn complete with shoulder patches,
insignia of rank, and service stripes.
(1) All shirt buttons shall be fastened, except the neck button which shall be
unfastened when the tie is removed.
(2) Sleeves shall not be rolled up or turned under.
h. Ties. Four-in-hand breakaway-type neckties shall be worn with the long-sleeve

shirt, when required, by all uniformed employees except those assigned to
motorcycle duty. Uniformed employees assigned to motorcycle duty shall wear a
bow tie, when required. The appropriate tie may be worn with the short-sleeve shirt
provided an approved uniform jacket is worn.
(1) In geographical areas where the accepted practice by government officials

is to appear at official functions without ties, commanders may adopt
procedures which are consistent with local practices, provided:
(a) Prior approval is obtained from the Division commander.
(b) Rules of court officials are observed and complied with to the degree
practical.
(2) When a uniform jacket is worn, appropriate neckwear for the uniform shall
also be worn.
i. Green Dress Jacket. The green dress jacket shall be complete with shoulder
patches, insignia of rank, and service stripes.
(1) Wearing of the green dress jacket is optional except when required for
official functions such as formal personnel inspections, office dedications, etc.
During Academy graduations, funerals, memorial services, award
presentations, and other occasions which require the wearing of the formal
uniform jacket, all equipment on the duty belt may be removed at the discretion
of the commander, with the exception of a fully-loaded primary weapon and
holster.
(2) The green dress jacket shall be completely zippered during official
functions and should be completely zippered when in public view, except while
operating a vehicle.
(3) Refer to paragraph 2.w. of this chapter regarding the wearing of the
aiguillette with the green jacket.
HPM 73.5 5-6

j. Blue Patrol Jacket. The blue patrol jacket manufactured by Spiewak, or
previously purchased from Blauer Manufacturing Company or Fechheimer Brothers
Company, shall be complete with shoulder patches, as well as chevron patches for
sergeants (refer to paragraph 2.y.[8] of this chapter for positioning of chevron
patches). Positioning of rank insignia on the blue patrol jacket for lieutenants and
above shall be as specified in Annex A.
k. Blue Patrol Jacket Inner Shell. When worn as an outer garment, the blue
patrol jacket inner shell shall be complete with shoulder patches, embroidered
name, and cloth badge, as well as chevron patches for sergeants (refer to
paragraph 2.y.[8] of this chapter for positioning of chevron patches). Positioning of
rank insignia on the blue patrol jacket inner shell for lieutenants and above shall be
as specified in Annex A.
NOTE: Motorcycle officers are authorized to modify the blue patrol jacket by
adding a strip of hook and pile material. This is an optional item at the employee’s
own expense. Refer to HPG 73.6, Chapter 2.
l. Trousers and Breeches. As part of the formal uniform, the 100 percent wool
trousers shall be worn by all uniformed employees except those assigned to
motorcycle or mounted duty. Uniformed employees assigned to motorcycle or
mounted duty shall wear the 100 percent wool breeches.
m. Utility Uniform. Wearing of the uniform.
(1) Utility uniforms shall be purchased from a prequalified manufacturer.
(2) The rank insignia can be embroidered or gold-colored metal bar(s) or

star(s) pins.
(3) Positioning of rank insignia on the utility uniform shall be as specified in

paragraphs 2.y.(1) through 2.y.(8) of this chapter.
(4) Undergarments shall not extend beyond the sleeve cuffs of the utility
uniform.
(5) Undergarments visible at the neck area shall comply with Chapter 2,
General Requirements, paragraph 4.b., of this manual.
(6) The departmental cloth badge is the authorized badge to be worn on the
utility uniform. The departmental cloth badge is available through the Academy
Post Exchange.
n. Trouser Belt. The buckleless hook and pile type (i.e., Velcro) trouser belt shall
be worn with the trousers or breeches.
5-7 HPM 73.5

o. Socks. Solid-colored socks, without design, in either royal blue, navy blue, or
black, shall be worn any time the socks are visible. Uniformed employees with a
foot condition are authorized to wear white socks as specified in writing by the
uniformed employee’s physician. If the foot condition exceeds 30 days, the
footwear shall be changed to an approved color which covers the sock.
p. Footwear. Footwear worn with the uniform shall conform to the specifications
below.
(1) Shoes.
(a) Material. Black leather or Corfam.
(b) Style. To be a smooth finish. Shoes to be plain or cap toe, to accept

polishing, with no ornamental stitching, ventilation, holes, or seams. Soles
shall not be more than 3/4 inch thick. Heels shall not be more than 1 1/2
inches thick (measured from the bottom of the heel to the top of the sole).
Shoes shall not be worn if they have a pointed toe or squared or beveled
heel in excess of 1/4 inch. Shoe laces shall be black in color.
(2) Boots.
(a) Material. Black leather or black leather nylon-sided.
(b) Style. Boot lower stock shall be smooth finish, plain or cap toe; to
accept polishing, with no ornamental stitching, ventilation, holes, or
seams. Boots with nylon-sided upper stock are authorized when
nylon-sided material is not visible below the hem of the trouser leg (this
does not apply when blousing the utility uniform pants). Soles shall not be
more than 3/4 inch thick. Heels shall not be more than 1 1/2 inches thick
(measured from the bottom of the heel to the top of the sole). Boots shall
not be worn if they have a pointed toe or squared or beveled heel in
excess of 1/4 inch. Boot laces shall be black in color.
(c) Spur straps or nonfunctioning buckles are not allowed.
(d) Boots which allow the trouser leg to catch or hang up on the tops are
prohibited, even if they conform to the specifications. A concealed zipper
at the rear or side of each boot could eliminate this problem.
(3) Uniformed employees assigned to motorcycle and mounted duty shall

wear the boots specified in Annex A of this chapter.
HPM 73.5 5-8

q. Nylon Duty Belt. The nylon duty belt shall be worn on the waist in conjunction
with the buckleless hook and pile trouser belt with no appreciable deviation from a
horizontal plane. The duty belt shall be equipped as follows:
(1) The primary weapon shall be worn at all times while in uniform on the
uniformed employee’s primary side.
(2) Uniformed employees shall not position any uniform or equipment item to
the front or rear of the holster which interferes with the removal of the primary
weapon.
(3) When the side handle baton is worn, it shall be worn on the uniformed
employee’s support side.
(4) The placement of all other required and approved optional equipment shall
be at the uniformed employee’s discretion, provided they are able to conform
to all officer safety training requirements.
(5) Uniformed employees assigned to administrative duties while in uniform

and working within the confines of their headquarters shall wear the primary
weapon. The primary weapon may be worn with an approved holster on an
approved trouser belt in lieu of the nylon duty belt.
r. Handcuffs and Key. Handcuffs shall be carried in the handcuff case. A

handcuff key shall be carried on a key strap on the duty belt or concealed on the
uniformed employee.
s. Handcuff Case. At least 1 single or double handcuff case shall be worn on the
duty belt. Two single handcuff cases may be worn in lieu of a double handcuff
case. During official functions, however, only 1 handcuff case (single or double)
shall be permitted.
t. Time Piece. One timekeeping device, defined as a pocket watch, wristwatch,

or cellular telephone, capable of maintaining accurate time shall be carried
specifically for timekeeping purposes.
NOTE: Watches and watchbands are restricted to the following nonfluorescent

colors: silver, black, brown, gray, or other conservative colors which do not detract
from the professional appearance of the uniform.
u. Pen (Black or Blue Ink) or Pencil. A pen or pencil shall be carried concealed
within the uniform.
v. Flashlight. A flashlight conforming to the specifications contained in Annex A

shall be carried during the hours of darkness.
5-9 HPM 73.5

w. Aiguillette (Shoulder Cord). The aiguillette denotes a degree of dress more
formal than the normal duty uniform. Wearing the aiguillette should be restricted to
instances where such an item would be advantageous in identifying personnel
specifically assigned to special duties or details at the discretion of the commander.
(1) At the discretion of the commander, the aiguillette shall be worn by

uniformed employees participating in funerals when the green dress jacket is
worn.
(2) The aiguillette shall be positioned around and under the right arm. The
hooks at the ends of the aiguillette cord shall be latched together and
concealed under the right shoulder strap of the jacket. The loose end of the
aiguillette cord shall hang freely to the front.
x. Service Stripes. For each 5 years of service as a uniformed employee of the

CHP, the California State Police (CSP), or combined service time with the CHP and
CSP, 1 departmental service stripe shall be placed on the left sleeve of each long-
sleeve shirt and green dress jacket. Years of service shall be strictly interpreted
and shall not include time in retirement, whether that retirement was voluntary or
mandatory, or with agencies other than the CHP and CSP. Uniformed employees
purchasing new garments during the 6 months prior to completion of the required
five-year period may have the additional stripe for such period affixed to the
garment.
HPM 73.5 5-10

y. Insignia of Rank. All uniformed employees at the rank of sergeant or above
shall wear the appropriate insignia of rank in conjunction with their uniform as
specified below. Such insignia shall meet departmental specifications.
(1) Commissioner.
(a) Shirt. Five stars may be worn in a straight line or in a cluster on each
side of the shirt collar. If wearing the stars in a straight line, 1 point of
each star shall point upwards in such a manner that a line connecting the
tops of those stars will be parallel to the top edge of the collar. The
outermost tip of the front star shall be positioned 1 inch from the front edge
of the collar. If wearing the 5 stars in a cluster, the front edge of the stars
shall be 1 inch from and parallel with the front edges of the collar. The
stars shall be centered between the top and bottom edge of the collar.
(b) Green Dress Jacket. Five stars shall be worn in a straight line on
each epaulet of the garment where insignia is required. The line of the
stars shall be centered between the front and rear edges of the epaulet.
The tip of the outermost star shall be positioned 3/4 inch from the outside
edge of the epaulet.
5-11 HPM 73.5

(2) Deputy Commissioner.
(a) Shirt. Four stars shall be worn in a straight line on each side of the
shirt collar. One point of each star shall point upwards in such a manner
that a line connecting the tips of those stars will be parallel to the top edge
of the collar. The outermost tip of the front star shall be positioned 1 inch
from the front edge of the collar.
(b) Green Dress Jacket. Four stars shall be worn in a straight line on
stars shall be centered between the front and rear edges of the epaulet.
HPM 73.5 5-12

(3) Assistant Commissioner.
(a) Shirt. Three stars shall be worn in a straight line on each side of the
(b) Green Dress Jacket. Three stars shall be worn in a straight line on
stars shall be centered between the front and rear edge of the epaulet.
The outermost tip of the stars shall be positioned 3/4 inch from the outside
5-13 HPM 73.5

(4) Chief.
(a) Shirt. Two stars shall be worn in a straight line on each side of the
(b) Green Dress Jacket. Two stars shall be worn in a straight line on
stars shall be centered between the front and rear edge of the epaulet.
HPM 73.5 5-14

(5) Assistant Chief.
(a) Shirt. One star shall be worn on each side of the shirt collar. The
outermost tip of the star shall be positioned 1 inch from the edge of the
collar.
(b) Green Dress Jacket. One star shall be worn on each epaulet of the
garment where insignia is required. The star shall be centered between
the front and rear edge of the epaulet. The outermost tip of the star shall
be positioned 3/4 inch from the outside edge of the epaulet.
(6) Captain.
(a) Shirt. Two bars shall be worn on each side of the shirt collar in a
vertical position 1/4 inch apart. The front edge of the front bar shall be
1 inch from and parallel with the front edge of the collar. The bars shall be
centered between the top and bottom edge of the collar.
5-15 HPM 73.5

(b) Green Dress Jacket. Two bars shall be worn on each epaulet of the
garment where insignia is required, placed so the edge of the outer bar is
3/4 inch from and parallel with the sleeve seam.
(7) Lieutenant.
(a) Shirt. One bar shall be worn on each side of the shirt collar in a
position with the front edge of the bar 1 inch from and parallel with the
front edge of the collar. The bar shall be centered between the top and
bottom edge of the collar.
(b) Green Dress Jacket. One bar shall be worn on each epaulet of
the garment where insignia is required, placed so the edge of the bar is
3/4 inch from and parallel with the sleeve seam.
HPM 73.5 5-16

(8) Sergeant.
(a) Chevron, Standard-Size. A three-bar, standard-size chevron shall be

worn on each sleeve on the long-sleeve shirt, green dress jacket, blue
patrol jacket, and long-sleeve utility uniform with the uppermost portion of
the chevron touching the lowermost point of the shoulder patch.
NOTE: Chevrons shall be affixed to the blue patrol jacket by accessing

the zipper located along the inner sleeve seam. Personnel should use
caution so as not to perforate the water-resistant inner lining which is
readily identified as a white free-hanging fabric inside the outer shell.
(b) Chevron, Mid-Size. A three-bar, mid-size chevron shall be worn on

each sleeve of the short-sleeve uniform shirt and short-sleeve utility
uniform shirt with the uppermost portion of the chevron touching the
lowermost point of the shoulder patch.
z. Tribute of Mourning Ribbon. The tribute of mourning ribbon shall be worn

across the face of the badge under the following conditions.
(1) Statewide, when flags are displayed at half-mast for the death of a
departmental employee killed in the line of duty. The tribute of mourning
ribbon shall be removed the next calendar day following the funeral services.
5-17 HPM 73.5

(2) Statewide, for all line-of-duty deaths within the State of California,
including those involving members of allied law enforcement agencies. The
tribute of mourning ribbon shall be removed the next calendar day following the
funeral services.
(3) At all freeway dedications.
(4) As otherwise directed by the Commissioner.
aa. Nameplate. Uniformed employees shall wear the nameplate when a

Uniformed Safety Recognition Emblem has not been awarded. Uniformed
employees accepting the Uniformed Safety Recognition Emblem shall wear it in
conjunction with a nameplate. The nameplate or Uniformed Safety Recognition
Emblem shall be attached to the uniform shirt and/or green dress jacket directly
above and centered over the right pocket. The nameplate or safety award emblem
shall not be worn with the blue patrol jacket, cold weather parka, cold weather
jumpsuit, or bicycle jacket in order to preserve the unique waterproof, breathable
qualities of these garments.
bb. Uniformed Safety Recognition Emblem. Uniformed employees accepting the

Uniformed Safety Recognition Emblem shall wear it as specified in paragraph 2.aa.
above.
NOTE: Green Dress Jacket or Uniform Shirt. The emblem shall be centered over
the right pocket with the dropped portion of the emblem below the top edge of the
pocket.
cc. Holster, Aerosol Projector. All uniformed employees at the rank of captain and
below shall carry the Department-issued aerosol projector on the duty belt. The
canister shall be carried in a specially designed holster.
HPM 73.5 5-18

dd. Aerosol Subject Restraint Spray. Refer to Highway Patrol Manual (HPM) 70.6,
Officer Safety Manual, Chapter 26, Aerosol Subject Restraint, for policy on the
departmental aerosol subject restraint (oleoresin capsicum) spray.
ee. Baton, Side Handle. Refer to HPM 70.6, Chapter 25, The Side Handle Baton,
Monadnock PR-24 Collapsible Baton, and Straight Collapsible/Armament Systems
and Procedures Baton, for policy on the side handle baton.
ff. Primary Weapon. Refer to HPM 70.8, Firearms Manual, for the departmental
primary weapon policy.
gg. Soft Body Armor. Refer to Chapter 4, Soft Body Armor, of this manual for
policy on soft body armor.
hh. Extender Holster. All uniformed employees shall wear and utilize an extender
holster on the duty belt when a radio extender is carried.
NOTE: Should a uniformed employee choose to wear a self-purchased extender

holster, it shall be at the personal expense of the employee and comparable to the
Department-issued holster in appearance and functionality.
ii. High-Visibility Reflective Safety Vest. In accordance with Federal Highway

Administration Title 23, Part 634, of the Code of Federal Regulations, when
performing patrol duties, all uniformed employees shall maintain a serviceable
Department-issued High-visibility Reflective Safety Vest (HRSV) readily available
within their patrol vehicle.
(1) As dictated by sound professional judgment, the HRSV shall be worn as

soon as practical by uniformed employees under the following circumstances:
(a) While actively engaged in traffic control duties at the scene of a

stabilized highway closure or obstructed roadway.
(b) While actively engaged in the investigation of a crime, collision, or

other high-profile incident (after scene stabilization) close enough to the
right-of-way of an active traffic lane so as to constitute a hazard.
(c) When outside of a patrol vehicle while engaged in traffic control duties
at Construction Zone Enhanced Enforcement Program or Maintenance
Zone Enhanced Enforcement Program details, or sobriety checkpoints.
(d) As directed by the on-scene commander during the activation of the

Incident Command System, when officer safety and/or identification would
be enhanced by the wearing of the HRSV by specified personnel.
5-19 HPM 73.5

(2) Wearing of Department-issued American National Standards Institute
107-2004 compliant rainwear does not require wearing of the HRSV. The
HRSV shall be worn over all other Department-issued rainwear under the
same conditions listed above.
(3) When wearing the HRSV as an outer garment, the CHP badge shall be
worn on the left front (refer to Annex A).
HPM 73.5 5-20

ANNEX A
GENERAL GUIDELINES FOR REQUIRED UNIFORM AND EQUIPMENT ITEMS
1. DEPARTMENTAL BADGE. Seven-point star, yellow gold-filled, 14-karat 1/10.
2. DEPARTMENTAL CLOTH BADGE. Seven-point star, 3 3/16 inches by 3 3/16

inches +/- 1/6 inch.
3. HAT/CAP PIECE. Motorcycle wheel and flying wings, with ribbon top and bottom;
metal, gold in color.
5-21 HPM 73.5

ANNEX A

(continued)
4. CAP–CLASS A.
5. FELT CAMPAIGN HAT.
HPM 73.5 5-22

ANNEX A

(continued)
a. Braid and head strap assembly instructions are shown below.
5-23 HPM 73.5

ANNEX A

(continued)
6. HELMET–TACTICAL RIOT.
a. Helmet Nomenclature. The departmental tactical riot helmet consists of

6 basic components:
(1) Helmet shell constructed of Kevlar, blue or gray in color.
(2) Suspension band.
(3) Head band.
(4) Chin strap.
(5) Tactical cloth cover (if issued).
(6) Face shield.
b. The employee shall have a fully assembled tactical riot helmet at their disposal.
7. HELMET–MOTORCYCLE.
a. Color. Shell to be finished blue and gold with a durable high-gloss finish. All
leather parts showing to the outside, when worn, to be finished black.
HPM 73.5 5-24

ANNEX A

(continued)
b. Motorcycle Helmet Cap Piece. Motorcycle wheel and flying wings, with ribbon
top and bottom, contoured to fit motorcycle helmet.
c. Flag Decals. United States flag decals shall be centered on the back of the
helmet in the black portion, 1/2 inch below the gold edge.
8. SCALP GUARD. (Bump cap.)
a. Material. Plastic.
b. Color. Light blue, blue, or white.
c. Specifications. To be furnished by the Department prior to manufacture.
5-25 HPM 73.5

ANNEX A

(continued)
9. JACKET–BLUE PATROL.
a. Color. Dark navy blue.
b. The approved blue patrol jacket is manufactured by Spiewak and is sold

exclusively by the Academy Post Exchange (PX). Blue patrol jackets previously
purchased from Blauer Manufacturing Company or Fechheimer Brothers Company
are approved for wear and must comply with the specifications contained in
Highway Patrol Guide 73.6, Uniform and Equipment Specifications Guide,
Chapter 2, Uniform Items.
Blue Patrol Jacket Previously Purchased From Blauer

Manufacturing Company or Fechheimer Brothers Company
Blue Patrol Jacket Manufactured by Spiewak
HPM 73.5 5-26

ANNEX A

(continued)
Inner Shell of Blue Patrol Jacket Manufactured by Spiewak

Worn As Outer Garment
c. Positioning of the Insignia of Rank on the Blue Patrol Jacket Previously

Purchased from Blauer Manufacturing Company or Fechheimer Brothers Company.
(1) Commissioner. Five stars shall be worn in a straight line on each epaulet
of the garment where insignia is required. The tip of the outermost star shall
5-27 HPM 73.5

ANNEX A

(continued)
(2) Deputy Commissioner. Four stars shall be worn in a line on each epaulet
of the garment where insignia is required. The tip of the outermost star shall
(3) Assistant Commissioner. Three stars shall be worn in a line on each

epaulet of the garment where insignia is required. The tip of the outermost star
shall be positioned 3/4 inch from the outside edge of the epaulet.
HPM 73.5 5-28

ANNEX A

(continued)
(4) Chief. Two stars shall be worn in a line on each epaulet of the garment
where insignia is required. The tip of the outermost star shall be positioned
3/4 inch from the outside edge of the epaulet.
(5) Assistant Chief. One star shall be worn on each epaulet of the garment
where insignia is required. The outermost tip of the star shall be positioned
3/4 inch from the outside edge of the epaulet.
5-29 HPM 73.5

ANNEX A

(continued)
(6) Captain. Two bars shall be worn on each epaulet of the garment where
insignia is require, placed so the edge of the outer bar is 3/4 inch from and
parallel with the sleeve seam.
(7) Lieutenant. One bar shall be worn on each epaulet of the garment where
insignia is required, placed so the edge of the bar is 3/4 inch from and parallel
with the sleeve seam.
HPM 73.5 5-30

ANNEX A

(continued)
d. Positioning of the Insignia of Rank on the Blue Patrol Jacket Manufactured by

Spiewak.
(1) Commissioner. Five stars shall be worn in a straight line on each epaulet
of the garment where insignia is required. The line of stars shall be centered
on the epaulet.
(2) Deputy Commissioner. Four stars shall be worn in a line on each epaulet
of the garment where insignia is required. The line of stars shall be centered
on the epaulet.
5-31 HPM 73.5

ANNEX A

(continued)
(3) Assistant Commissioner. Three stars shall be worn in a line on each

epaulet of the garment where insignia is required. The stars shall be centered
on the epaulet.
(4) Chief. Two stars shall be worn in a line on each epaulet of the garment
where insignia is required. The stars shall be centered on the epaulet.
HPM 73.5 5-32

ANNEX A

(continued)
(5) Assistant Chief. One star shall be worn on each epaulet of the garment
where insignia is required. The star shall be centered on the epaulet.
(6) Captain. Two bars shall be worn on each epaulet of the garment where
insignia is required. The bars shall be centered on the epaulet.
5-33 HPM 73.5

ANNEX A

(continued)
(7) Lieutenant. One bar shall be worn on each epaulet of the garment where
insignia is required. The bar shall be centered on the epaulet.
NOTE: The shoulder insignia of rank for lieutenants and above is fastened by
a pin and safety catch. Due to the construction of the epaulet on the blue utility
jacket, the pin must be inserted between the layers of fabric, through the top
layer only, rather than completely through the top and underside of the epaulet.
HPM 73.5 5-34

ANNEX A

(continued)
e. Positioning of the Insignia of Rank on the Inner Shell of the Blue Patrol Jacket
Manufactured by Spiewak. When the inner shell of the blue patrol jacket
manufactured by Spiewak is worn as an outer garment, the insignia of rank for
lieutenants and above shall be positioned as follows:
(1) Commissioner. Five stars may be worn in a straight line or in a cluster on

each side of the collar. If wearing the stars in a straight line, 1 point of each
star shall point upwards in such a manner that a line connecting the tops of
those stars will be parallel to the top edge of the collar. The outermost tip of
the front star shall be positioned 1 inch from the front edge of the collar. If
wearing the 5 stars in a cluster, the front edge of the stars shall be 1 inch from
and parallel with the front edges of the collar. The stars shall be centered
between the top and bottom edge of the collar.
5-35 HPM 73.5

ANNEX A

(continued)
(2) Deputy Commissioner. Four stars shall be worn in a straight line on each
side of the collar. One point of each star shall point upwards in such a manner
that a line connecting the tips of those stars will be parallel to the top edge of
the collar. The outermost tip of the front star shall be positioned 1 inch from
the front edge of the collar.
(3) Assistant Commissioner. Three stars shall be worn in a straight line on

each side of the collar. One point of each star shall point upwards in such a
manner that a line connecting the tips of those stars will be parallel to the top
edge of the collar. The outermost tip of the front star shall be positioned 1 inch
HPM 73.5 5-36

ANNEX A

(continued)
(4) Chief. Two stars shall be worn in a straight line on each side of the collar.
One point of each star shall point upwards in such a manner that a line
connecting the tips of those stars will be parallel to the top edge of the collar.
The outermost tip of the front star shall be positioned 1 inch from the front edge
of the collar.
(5) Assistant Chief. One star shall be worn on each side of the collar. The
outermost tip of the star shall be positioned 1 inch from the edge of the collar.
5-37 HPM 73.5

ANNEX A

(continued)
(6) Captain. Two bars shall be worn on each side of the collar in a vertical
position 1/4 inch apart. The front edge of the front bar shall be 1 inch from and
parallel with the front edge of the collar. The bars shall be centered between
the top and bottom edge of the collar.
(7) Lieutenant. One bar shall be worn on each side of the collar in a position
with the front edge of the bar 1 inch from and parallel with the front edge of the
collar. The bar shall be centered between the top and bottom edge of the
collar.
HPM 73.5 5-38

ANNEX A

(continued)
10. SHIRT–FORMAL. Fifty-five percent dacron polyester, 45 percent wool gabardine.
NOTE: Pocket width and depth may vary with garment size, but shall not be less than
4 1/2 inches in width or 5 inches in depth.
11. TROUSERS–FORMAL. All-wool elastique. Trousers to be boot cut leg or

standard leg style. Trousers to have 2 hip and 2 side pockets (vertical or semi-corner),
5 to 7 tunnel belt loops. One-inch seam strip beginning at the bottom of the waistband
centered over the outside leg seams, and continuing down to the bottom of the trousers.
5-39 HPM 73.5

ANNEX A

(continued)
12. BREECHES–FORMAL. All-wool elastique. Breeches to be cut semi-mounted

style with modified full peg. Belt loops, pockets, and seam strip same as for
Trousers – Formal. Refer to paragraph 11. of this annex for further specifications.
13. GREEN DRESS JACKET. All-wool elastique.
HPM 73.5 5-40

ANNEX A

(continued)
14. TIES. Dacron or wool fabric, royal blue. To be four-in-hand type necktie or
breakaway style, approximately 3 1/2 inches wide at its widest point.
15. BOW TIE. Dacron or wool fabric, royal blue. To be pre-tied with square ends. The
ends shall not be less than 1 1/4 inches wide or more than 1 1/2 inches wide. The
center knot shall not be less than 3/4 inch wide or more than 1 inch wide. The overall
length shall not be less than 4 7/8 inches or more than 5 1/8 inches. The fastener shall
be breakaway style, clip or band (Wembley’s #609-77, Royal Blue, for California
Highway Patrol or equal).
5-41 HPM 73.5

ANNEX A

(continued)
16. FOOTWEAR. General duty. Black leather or Corfam shoes. Black leather or
nylon-sided boots.
a. Style. Boots, shoes, and shoe laces shall be black in color. Boots and shoes
able to accept polishing.
b. Boots–Motorcycle/Mounted.
(1) Style. To be plain-toed, smooth finish, laced-over instep not to exceed

8 inches. Upper outside of top to include gore not to exceed four inches, with
lace, zipper, or strap and buckle closure. Boot laces shall be black in color.
HPM 73.5 5-42

ANNEX A

(continued)
NOTE: Mounted duty boot to have black calfskin vamp with black dehcord
uppers.
(2) Exception. Mounted duty boots with concealed back seam zippers may
be worn when the size of the wearer’s legs precludes the wearing of boots of
regular construction. Boots shall be fitted so the top of the boot, after wrinkling
at the ankles, is not more than 1 inch below the bone on the inside of the leg,
which is known to the boot industry as the boot bone.
(3) Maximum Toe Point Contour.
c. Heel Thickness and Allowable Bevel. Shoes or boots with heels thicker than
1 1/2 inches are not to be worn. Heels with a bevel in excess of 1/4 inch are not
allowed.
17. TRIBUTE OF MOURNING RIBBON. Elasticized ribbon, black.
5-43 HPM 73.5

ANNEX A

(continued)
18. INSIGNIA OF RANK.
a. Commissioner.
(1) Five Stars, Collar. Stars to be plain metal, gold color, 3/8 inch,
five-pointed; attached as a cluster or a line; to have 2 metal clutch fasteners.
(2) Five Stars, Shoulder. Plain metal, gold color, 5/8 inch, five-pointed; to
have pin and safety catch.
b. Deputy Commissioner.
(1) Four Stars, Collar. Plain metal, gold color, 5/8 inch, five-pointed; to have
2 metal clutch fasteners.
(2) Four Stars, Shoulder. Plain metal, gold color, 1 inch, five-pointed; to have
pin and safety catch.
c. Assistant Commissioner.
(1) Three Stars, Collar. Plain metal, gold color, 5/8 inch, five-pointed; to have
(2) Three Stars, Shoulder. Plain metal, gold color, 1 inch, five-pointed; to
d. Chief and Assistant Chief.
(1) Two Stars, Collar. Plain metal, gold color, 5/8 inch, five-pointed; to have
(2) Two Stars, Shoulder. Plain metal, gold color, 1 inch, five-pointed; to have
e. Assistant Chief.
(1) One Star, Collar. Plain metal, gold color, 5/8 inch, five-pointed; to have
HPM 73.5 5-44

ANNEX A

(continued)
(2) One Star, Shoulder. Plain metal, gold color, 1 inch, five-pointed; to have
f. Captain.
(1) Bars, Collar. Plain metal, gold color. To have 2 bars 5/16 inch wide and
3/4 inch long spaced horizontally 1/4 inch apart. To have 2 metal clutch
fasteners.
(2) Bars, Shoulder. Plain metal, gold color. To have 2 bars 3/8 inch wide and
1 inch long, spaced horizontally 3/8 inch apart. To have pin and safety catch.
g. Lieutenant.
(1) Bar, Collar. Plain metal, gold color, 1/4 inch wide and 3/4 inch long. To
have 2 metal clutch fasteners.
(2) Bar, Shoulder. Plain metal, gold color, 3/8 inch wide and 1 inch long. To
h. Sergeant. Chevron, Standard-Size and Mid-Size: Three-bar type.
19. SHOULDER PATCH, DEPARTMENTAL. To be shield shape, 4 inches by 4 7/8

inches + 1/16 inch. To be manufactured by National Emblem, Inc., Schweizer Emblem
Co., or equal.
5-45 HPM 73.5

ANNEX A

(continued)
20. AIGUILLETTE (SHOULDER CORD). Blue and gold nylon cord 3/16 inch in
diameter. Color of cords to match departmental stripe. One yellow metal ferrule,
3 inches in length.
21. NAMEPLATE. All metal construction, plain without design. Polished gold finish
with royal blue lettering.
22. UNIFORMED SAFETY RECOGNITION EMBLEM. Metal, gold.
a. Two years–no jewels.
b. Five years–1 ruby.
c. Ten years–2 rubies.
d. Fifteen years–3 rubies.
e. Twenty years–1 diamond, 2 rubies.
HPM 73.5 5-46

ANNEX A

(continued)
f. Twenty-five years–2 diamonds, 1 ruby.
g. Thirty years–3 diamonds.
h. Thirty-five years–3 diamonds, 1 ruby.
23. VELCRO TROUSER BELT.
a. Material. To be 8- to 9-ounce top-grain cowhide, basket weave.
24. NYLON DUTY BELT.
a. Material. Nylon, black, basket weave.
5-47 HPM 73.5

ANNEX A

(continued)
25. HOLSTERS. Refer to Highway Patrol Manual (HPM) 70.8, Firearms Manual, for
specifications and other information relating to authorized holsters.
26. MAGAZINE POUCH. Refer to HPM 70.8 for specifications and other information
relating to the magazine pouch.
27. PRIMARY WEAPON MAGAZINES. Refer to HPM 70.8 for specifications and other
information relating to magazines for the primary weapon.
28. SIDE HANDLE BATON.
a. Make. Monadnock PR-24, or equal.
b. Material. Aircraft aluminum with a shock absorbent foam core, 24 inches long,
approximately 27 ounces.
29. SIDE HANDLE BATON RING.
a. Make. Aetco Model 611C-S10, Tex Shoemaker & Sons Model 81QR (basket
weave) or 81QRH (basket weave), or equal.
b. Material. Leather, 6- to 7-ounce, basket weave.
HPM 73.5 5-48

ANNEX A

(continued)
30. HANDCUFF CASE.
a. Material. Leather, 6- to 7-ounce, basket weave.
31. PRIMARY WEAPON. Refer to HPM 70.8 for specifications and other information
relating to the primary weapon.
32. AMMUNITION. Refer to HPM 70.8 for specifications and other information relating
to the approved ammunition.
33. HANDCUFFS.
a. Style. To be chromium, nickel-plated, tempered stainless steel or blue finish.

Weight to be approximately 11 ounces.
5-49 HPM 73.5

ANNEX A

(continued)
b. Inspection. Required handcuffs shall be inspected and maintained in

accordance with this annex and HPM 70.8.
c. Correction of Deficiencies. If handcuffs require cleaning, repair, or are unsafe,

the commander shall be responsible for seeing that the employee possessing the
item makes the necessary correction or replacement. Any correction/repair shall be
made as soon as possible, but no later than 30 days after inspection. Unsafe
handcuffs shall be replaced immediately.
d. Frequency of Inspection. The required inspection of handcuffs shall be made

in conjunction with the Annual Performance Appraisal. The inspections shall be
made by an Academy-trained weapons officer. Commanders may conduct more
frequent inspections as deemed necessary.
34. FLASHLIGHT. Flashlight shall be fixed focus, emit a white light, and use or have
the capability of using standard ‘D’ size or rechargeable multicell batteries. Flashlights
shall comply with the following size and weight specifications.
Flashlight Cell Capacity Maximum Weight
(standard ‘D’ size batteries) (with batteries)
3-Cell 33.0 ounces
5-Cell 40.0 ounces
7-Cell 44.0 ounces
35. HOLSTER, AEROSOL PROJECTOR. Leather, 6- to 7-ounce, black.
NOTE: Gould and Goodrich aerosol projector holsters, issued by the Department
between January 1995 and May 1995, are approved for use until no longer serviceable.
HPM 73.5 5-50

ANNEX A

(continued)
36. SERVICE STRIPES.
a. Green Dress Jacket. Stripe to be placed on the left sleeve, either by

embroidering directly on sleeve or by matching cloth-on-cloth style at a 45-degree
angle with the lower end of the stripe toward the inside seam of the sleeve.
b. Long-Sleeve Shirt. Material, style, and placement to be the same as for the
jacket, except the stripe shall be placed 3/4 inch above the sleeve cuff with the
complete stripe in front of the center press of the sleeve.
5-51 HPM 73.5

ANNEX A

(continued)
37. EXTENDER HOLSTER. To be made from top grain leather or equivalent

leather-appearing synthetic material and designed by the manufacturer specifically
for the departmental radio extender.
38. UTILITY UNIFORM.
a. Material. The utility uniform shirt and pants shall be composed of 65 percent
polyester/35 percent cotton, dark navy blue in color, ripstop material, and may be
treated with a Teflon® fabric protector.
b. Color. Navy blue.
NOTE: Effective January 1, 2000, the utility uniform manufactured with ripstop
material is the only uniform authorized for wear, replacing all existing types of utility
uniforms.
c. Acceptable Brands List.
(1) Camo Distributors.
(2) Transcon, Inc.
(3) Propper International.
(4) Tactical Force by APG.
(5) 5.11 Tactical.
HPM 73.5 5-52

ANNEX A

(continued)
d. Utility uniforms do not come with shoulder patches, a departmental cloth

badge, or an embroidered name. It will be necessary for those wearing the blue
utility uniform to make sure these required items are affixed to the uniform prior to it
being worn. The required departmental cloth badge is available through the
Academy PX.
39. HIGH-VISIBILITY REFLECTIVE SAFETY VEST.
a. Vest Material. One-hundred percent polyester durable knit material. The vest
material shall be light and flexible, able to withstand a wide variety of temperatures
and conditions. The vest shall be fluorescent yellow (Pantone color 388, or
equivalent) and shall be compliant with American National Standards Institute
(ANSI)/International Safety Equipment Association 107-2004 or ANSI 207-2006
standards for high-visibility safety apparel.
b. Reflective Tape. The reflective tape shall be compliant with ANSI 107-2004
Level 2/Class 3 or ANSI 207-2006 standards for high-visibility safety apparel and
shall be silver/white in color.
NOTE: Effective November 24, 2008, in accordance with Federal Highway

Administration Title 23, Part 634, of the Code of Federal Regulations, when
performing patrol duties, all uniformed employees shall maintain a serviceable
Department-issued High-visibility Reflective Safety Vest readily available within
their patrol vehicle.
5-53 HPM 73.5

HPM 73.5 5-54

CHAPTER 6
REGULATIONS FOR OPTIONAL UNIFORM ITEMS
REVISED DECEMBER 2021
TABLE OF CONTENTS
GENERAL .................................................................................................................... 6-3

Optional Uniform and Equipment Items ..................................................................... 6-3
Cold Weather Uniform Items–Cold Weather Areas ................................................... 6-3
OPTIONAL UNIFORM AND EQUIPMENT ITEMS ....................................................... 6-3
Straw Campaign Hat ................................................................................................. 6-3
Short-Sleeve Shirt ..................................................................................................... 6-3
Lightweight Trousers (Polyester/Wool Blend) ............................................................ 6-3
Leather Motorcycle Jacket......................................................................................... 6-3
Cold Weather Parka .................................................................................................. 6-3
Cold Weather Jumpsuit ............................................................................................. 6-4
Storm Clothing ........................................................................................................... 6-4
Knit Cap (Beanie)–Designated Cold Weather Areas ................................................. 6-4
Cold Weather Cap–Designated Cold Weather Areas ................................................ 6-4
Cold Weather Cap–Nondesignated Cold Weather Areas .......................................... 6-5
Scarf .......................................................................................................................... 6-5
Gloves ....................................................................................................................... 6-5
Mock Dickey .............................................................................................................. 6-5
Mock Turtleneck ........................................................................................................ 6-6
Sand Goggles............................................................................................................ 6-6
Call-Out Jacket .......................................................................................................... 6-6
Key Strap/Ring .......................................................................................................... 6-7
Belt Slide Loops, Duty Belt (Keeper Straps) .............................................................. 6-7
Plastic Flexcuffs......................................................................................................... 6-7
Tie Clasp ................................................................................................................... 6-7
Administrative Safety Recognition Emblem (Tie Bar and Tie Tack) .......................... 6-7
Authorized Department-Issued Medals and Pins ...................................................... 6-7
Honor Guard Uniform Items ...................................................................................... 6-9
Bagpiper Uniform Items ............................................................................................ 6-9
Knife/Knife Holder.................................................................................................... 6-10
Flashlight Ring ......................................................................................................... 6-10
Flashlight Holder...................................................................................................... 6-10
Secondary Badge .................................................................................................... 6-10
Secondary Weapon Holster ..................................................................................... 6-11
California Highway Patrol Cotton Blue Utility (Baseball) Cap .................................. 6-11
Eyewear .................................................................................................................. 6-11
6-1 HPM 73.5

Cellular Telephones................................................................................................. 6-12
Rainwear ................................................................................................................. 6-12
Brass Buckle Trouser Belt ....................................................................................... 6-12
Blue Undergarment Shirt ......................................................................................... 6-12
Investigator Rapid Deployment Vest ....................................................................... 6-12
Tactical Flight Vest .................................................................................................. 6-13
External Rifle Rated Body Armor and Carrier .......................................................... 6-13
Tourniquet Carrying Case ....................................................................................... 6-14
Gun Belt Support Suspenders ................................................................................. 6-15
ANNEX
A – GENERAL GUIDELINES–OPTIONAL UNIFORMS AND EQUIPMENT .............. 6-17
HPM 73.5 6-2

CHAPTER 6
REGULATIONS FOR OPTIONAL UNIFORM ITEMS
1. GENERAL.
a. Optional Uniform and Equipment Items. The optional uniform and equipment
items in this chapter may be worn by uniformed employees as authorized in this
manual. These optional items shall conform to the specifications contained in
Annex A of this chapter.
b. Cold Weather Uniform Items–Cold Weather Areas. Field Division commanders

may authorize the wearing of approved cold weather uniform items by personnel in
commands designated as cold weather Areas. (Refer to Chapter 1, Uniform Policy,
paragraph 2.d.[2], of this manual for the definition of a cold weather Area.)
2. OPTIONAL UNIFORM AND EQUIPMENT ITEMS.
a. Straw Campaign Hat. The straw campaign hat shall be worn in the same
manner as the felt campaign hat. (Refer to Chapter 5, Regulations for Required
Uniform Items, paragraph 2.c.[2], of this manual.)
b. Short-Sleeve Shirt. Instructions for wearing the short-sleeve shirt shall be the
same as the long-sleeve shirt. When the tie is worn with the short-sleeve shirt, an
approved uniform jacket shall be worn. The mock dickey may be worn with the
short-sleeve shirt without the blue patrol jacket. Undergarments shall not extend
beyond the shirtsleeve cuffs.
c. Lightweight Trousers (Polyester/Wool Blend). Instructions for wearing the

lightweight trousers shall be the same as the 100 percent wool trousers. The
lightweight trousers shall be worn with the approved trouser belt.
d. Leather Motorcycle Jacket. The leather motorcycle jacket is to be used only by

uniformed employees normally assigned to motorcycle duty. The jacket should be
zippered when in public view.
e. Cold Weather Parka. The parka may be worn by uniformed employees

assigned to cold weather Areas designated by the appropriate Division commander
in the following manner:
(1) The insignia of rank can be embroidered or gold-colored metal bar(s) or

star(s) pins can be attached.
6-3 HPM 73.5

(2) Positioning of insignia of rank on the cold weather parka shall be as
specified in Chapter 5, paragraph 2.y., of this manual.
(3) The parka shall be worn in conjunction with the uniform shirt and
appropriate neckwear, or
(4) The parka may be worn in conjunction with the cold weather jumpsuit in
accordance with the requirements listed below.
f. Cold Weather Jumpsuit. The cold weather jumpsuit may be worn by uniformed
employees assigned to cold weather Areas as designated by the Division
commander. When the jumpsuit is worn, the blue patrol jacket or cold weather
parka may be worn as an outer garment.
g. Storm Clothing. When extraordinary storm or flood conditions exist, Area

commanders may authorize the wearing of other garments, as necessary, to
protect uniformed employees under the following conditions:
(1) Existing uniform requirements shall be adhered to as reasonably as

possible during extraordinary conditions.
(2) Area commanders shall require uniformed employees to return to the

approved uniform as soon as reasonably possible following abatement of the
extraordinary conditions.
(3) Area commanders may authorize tan, brown, or green insulated boots
only when black insulated boots are not readily available.
h. Knit Cap (Beanie)–Designated Cold Weather Areas. The knit cap (beanie)
may be worn only in designated cold weather Areas and only with the cold weather
uniform.
(1) The knit cap shall be worn only during periods of cold weather when
authorized by the Area commander.
(2) The departmental winged-wheel logo shall be affixed to the front of the knit
cap.
(3) The knit cap is available exclusively at the Academy Post Exchange (PX)
for purchase at the employee’s expense.
i. Cold Weather Cap–Designated Cold Weather Areas. Cold weather caps may
be requisitioned and worn in designated cold weather Areas under the following
conditions:
HPM 73.5 6-4

(1) The cold weather cap shall be worn only during periods of cold weather
when authorized by the Area commander.
(2) A hat/cap piece shall be affixed to the cold weather cap visor.
(3) Cold weather caps shall be worn in a manner consistent with the
campaign hat policy.
j. Cold Weather Cap–Nondesignated Cold Weather Areas. Cold weather caps

may be worn in Areas not designated as cold weather Areas under the same
conditions listed in paragraphs 2.i.(1) through 2.i.(3) of this chapter. However, the
cap shall be purchased at the employee’s expense.
k. Scarf. A scarf may be worn with the blue patrol jacket, leather motorcycle
jacket, cold weather parka, or cold weather jumpsuit.
(1) The ends of the scarf shall be concealed under the outermost garment.
(2) The scarf shall not be worn with the green dress jacket.
(3) Scarves shall be navy blue in color and without design. (Refer to Annex A
of this chapter.)
l. Gloves. Uniformed employees may wear gloves for comfort and protection.
(1) Uniformed employees shall ensure that gloves allow for the safe operation
of a vehicle, emergency vehicle equipment controls, weapons, and officer
safety equipment.
(2) White formal gloves made available by the Department may be worn by
uniformed employees assigned to:
(a) A funeral honor guard.
(b) An official function when approved by the Division or Area

commander responsible for coordinating the event.
m. Mock Dickey. The mock dickey may be worn by uniformed personnel in

accordance with this manual. The 93 percent cotton and 7 percent Lycra navy blue
mock dickey without design or logo, available from the Academy PX, is the only
mock dickey authorized for wear while in uniform.
NOTE: The previously authorized dickey with logo is only authorized until no longer
serviceable.
6-5 HPM 73.5

n. Mock Turtleneck. The long-sleeve mock turtleneck may be worn by uniformed
employees in accordance with this manual. The 93 percent cotton and 7 percent
Lycra navy blue long-sleeve mock turtleneck without design or logo, available from
the Academy PX, is the only mock turtleneck authorized for wear while in uniform.
NOTE: The previously authorized long-sleeve turtleneck with logo is only

authorized until no longer serviceable.
o. Sand Goggles. Sand goggles may be requisitioned and worn in Areas where
extreme weather conditions exist.
p. Call-Out Jacket. The call-out jacket is available to members of the Department

who have a need to immediately respond to incidents and be recognized as peace
officers while in civilian attire.
(1) The following are circumstances which would require the wearing of the
call-out jacket:
(a) When personnel are required to respond to incidents and delaying a

response to change into a uniform would be impractical.
(b) When a uniformed employee, in civilian attire, on or off duty, has a

need to be identified as a member of the California Highway Patrol (CHP).
(2) The call-out jacket is approved to be worn by the following personnel:
(a) Uniformed personnel subject to call-out after their normal shift.
(b) Shooting team members or other investigators.
(c) Uniformed personnel who wear plain clothes while on duty.
(d) Off-duty uniformed personnel who become involved in emergency

incidents.
(e) Personnel currently approved to wear the investigator jacket (raid

vest), with Division commander approval.
(3) The call-out jacket shall not be worn while in uniform.
NOTE: The old windbreaker-style investigator jacket may be worn under the
circumstances outlined above until no longer serviceable. The call-out jacket is
a restricted item for sale only to uniformed personnel and available through the
Academy PX.
HPM 73.5 6-6

q. Key Strap/Ring. A key strap/ring may be worn on the duty belt. The keys
necessary for the performance of duty shall be the only items carried on the key
strap/ring.
r. Belt Slide Loops, Duty Belt (Keeper Straps). Belt slide loops may be worn to
secure the duty belt to the trouser belt.
s. Plastic Flexcuffs. Department-issued plastic flexcuffs may be carried by

uniformed employees. Plastic flexcuffs shall not be positioned in a manner which
interferes with safety equipment or detracts from the appearance of the uniform.
(1) Uniformed employees shall use the Department-issued plastic flexcuffs

only as a supplement to the conventional regulation handcuffs.
(2) Uniformed employees in civilian attire may carry Department-issued

plastic flexcuffs in addition to the conventional handcuffs.
t. Tie Clasp.
(1) Uniformed employees may only wear an approved tie clasp, as described
in paragraph 2.v.(2) below, while on duty. The tie clasp shall be affixed to the
tie and shirt within the area bound by imaginary parallel lines drawn between
the top of the pocket flaps and the center of the pockets.
(2) Approved tie clasps include the plain gold metal tie bar, gold metal tie bar
with CHP star, Administrative Safety Recognition Emblem tie bar/tie tack,
25-year service tie bar/pin, CHP star tie tack, and oval CHP tie tack with a blue
stone.
u. Administrative Safety Recognition Emblem (Tie Bar and Tie Tack). As of July
1999, the Administrative Safety Recognition Emblem (tie bar and tie tack) was
discontinued as a safety recognition emblem and is no longer issued. However,
uniformed employees may continue to wear any existing Administrative Safety
Recognition Emblem tie bar or tie tack as an optional uniform item. Uniformed
employees may wear the tie bar or tie tack with either the uniform or in civilian attire
while on or off duty.
v. Authorized Department-Issued Medals and Pins.
(1) Shooting Classification Medal (Primary Weapon). The medal shall be

attached to the right pocket flap of the uniform shirt or green dress jacket, 1
inch to the right of the left edge. (Refer to Chapter 1 of this manual for policy
on all accouterments.)
6-7 HPM 73.5

(2) State of California 25-Year Service Pin. The 25-year service pin shall be
attached to the right pocket flap of the uniform shirt or green dress jacket, 1/2
inch below the top edge of the flap. (Refer to Chapter 1 of this manual for
policy on all accouterments.)
(3) State of California 25-Year Service Tie Bar. Uniformed employees may
choose the 25-year service tie bar in lieu of the standard 25-year service pin.
The tie bar shall be worn in accordance with paragraph 2.v.(2) of this chapter.
(4) Special Act or Service Pin. The pin shall be attached to the left pocket flap
of the uniform shirt or green dress jacket, 1/2 inch below the top edge of the
flap and centered above the button.
(5) 10851 Pin. Uniformed employees issued the 10851 pin may wear the pin
on the uniform shirt or green dress jacket or while wearing civilian attire. Only
one 10851 pin may be worn at any one time, and it shall be worn in
accordance with policy stated in Chapter 1 of this manual.
(6) Officer-of-the-Year Pin. Uniformed employees presented with a civic

organization’s Officer-of-the-Year pin may wear it only for the year awarded.
The pin may be worn on the uniform shirt or green dress jacket in accordance
with policy stated in Chapter 1 of this manual.
(7) Special Medals, Pins, or Decorations. Special accouterments specifically

authorized by the Commissioner shall be attached to the uniform as directed
by the Commissioner.
(8) Field Training Officer Pin. Uniformed employees who have successfully
completed the Field Training and Evaluation Program course and have current
certification may wear this pin as specified in Chapter 1 of this manual.
(9) Annual Fitness Challenge Pin. Uniformed employees who successfully

complete the Annual Fitness Challenge and are presented with this pin may
wear it as specified in Chapter 1 of this manual.
(10) United States Flag Pin. Uniformed employees may wear the United
States flag pin in accordance with policy stated in Chapter 1 of this manual.
(11) United States Military Flag Pin. Uniformed employees may wear the
United States military flag pin in accordance with policy stated in Chapter 1 of
this manual.
(12) Drug Recognition Expert/Drug Recognition Expert Instructor Pin. The

Drug Recognition Expert (DRE) pin may only be worn by uniformed employees
who have successfully completed DRE training or DRE Instructor training and
HPM 73.5 6-8

have been issued an official DRE number and DRE card by the International
Association of Chiefs of Police, and only if their DRE certification is current.
The pin shall be attached to the right pocket flap of the uniform shirt or green
dress jacket and may be worn in lieu of one of the other optional pins. Only
one DRE pin may be worn at any one time, and it shall be worn in accordance
with policy stated in Chapter 1 of this manual.
w. Honor Guard Uniform Items. The optional Honor Guard uniform items shall
consist of white gloves, a white ascot, and a white aiguillette worn with the formal
uniform. The optional Honor Guard uniform items include the tribute of morning
ribbon when participating at funerals and the annual CHP memorial.
(1) The white ascot is worn with the green dress jacket in lieu of the tie and
shall be worn in a manner that covers the chest and neck areas normally
exposed by the opening of the green dress jacket when the zipper is closed.
(2) The ends of the ascot shall be concealed under the outermost garment.
(3) The white aiguillette shall be worn as specified in Chapter 5, paragraph

2.w., of this manual.
(4) The Honor Guard accouterments shall be maintained by each field

Division and forwarded to Areas upon request. The Academy will maintain
Honor Guard accouterments for all headquarters offices.
x. Bagpiper Uniform Items. Uniformed personnel shall obtain the Division

commander’s approval prior to representing the Department as a bagpiper at
funerals or memorials. When uniformed employees perform with the bagpipes,
they shall wear the green dress jacket, long-sleeve shirt, and blue tie in conjunction
with the kilt. All accouterment placements shall be in accordance with policy
outlined in this manual. The kilt may be purchased at the employee’s expense, as
specified in this manual. Additionally, wearing of the kilt shall adhere to the
following uniform standards:
(1) Kilt. Only the CHP (corporate) tartan, as registered with the Scottish
Register of Tartans, is authorized (Scottish Tartans Authority ref: 3786). The
tartan shall be made of 16-ounce wool. A color swatch is held by the
Academy, Administrative Services Unit. The kilt shall be made of a minimum
of 8 yards of fabric and pleated to the vertical blue and gold stripe. When
worn, the kilt shall fit high on the waist and hang to the center of the knee cap.
(2) Sporran. A horsehair sporran shall be worn with the kilt. It shall consist of
off-white horsehair and two black horsehair tassels. The cantle and cones
shall be gold in color. Any visible leather shall be black. The departmental
6-9 HPM 73.5

winged wheel cap piece may be mounted in the center of the cantle. The
sporran shall be worn with a chain belt that is gold in color.
(3) Belt. The black duty belt shall be worn over the kilt and under the green
jacket. All pouches, holsters (including the primary firearm), and gear shall be
removed from the belt.
(4) Kilt Pin. A kilt pin may be worn on the kilt in the lower area of the top
apron. The pin shall be discreet and of a size to not detract from the overall
uniform appearance.
(5) Kilt Hose. Ancient green- and blue-colored diced kilt hose shall be worn.
They shall be folded at the top just below the knee.
(6) Flashes. Gold flashes (garters) shall be worn with 2 tails and 2 bellied
pleats. The inner edge of the flashes shall be aligned with the center of the
shin.
(7) Sgian Dubh Knife. A sgian dubh (pronounced “skin doo”) knife may be
worn in the right sock, centered in the middle of the flashes, with the handle
exposed out of the top of the sock.
(8) Spats. White piper spats shall be worn over black leather shoes.
(9) Prohibited Items. While wearing the departmental kilt, uniformed

members shall not wear a dirk, flask, sash, gloves, broaches, plaids, glengarry,
or any other items not mentioned in this section. (These are common items
pipers may add to their uniform but would not be appropriate or in line with law
enforcement and fire bagpipers.)
y. Knife/Knife Holder. A knife/knife holder may be carried on the duty belt. The
holder shall be worn on the belt in the vertical position with the flap opening at the
top.
NOTE: Knives as described by California Penal Code Sections 21310 and 21510
are prohibited.
z. Flashlight Ring. A flashlight ring may be carried on the duty belt.
aa. Flashlight Holder. A miniature flashlight holder may be carried on the duty belt.
bb. Secondary Badge. Uniformed employees desiring to purchase and wear a

secondary badge shall submit a memorandum to their commander. Their
commander shall inspect the secondary badge prior to the uniformed employee
HPM 73.5 6-10

wearing it on duty to ensure it conforms with the specifications contained in
Highway Patrol Guide 73.6, Uniform and Equipment Specifications Guide.
cc. Secondary Weapon Holster. When a secondary weapon is worn on the duty
belt while in uniform, the following restrictions shall apply:
(1) Refer to HPM 70.8, Firearms Manual, Chapter 1, Firearms Classification

and Registration, for departmental secondary firearm policy.
(2) All secondary firearm holsters shall be designed for that type of firearm; be
a type which conceals the firearm at all times; preclude accidental cocking,
discharge, or loss of physical control; and be approved by the Area weapons
inspection officer prior to use.
(3) A secondary firearm shall be worn in a location on the duty belt that will
not interfere with the retrieval of the primary weapon or other required safety
equipment.
dd. California Highway Patrol Cotton Blue Utility (Baseball) Cap. The 100 percent
cotton blue utility baseball cap is the only authorized utility cap to be worn with the
appropriate uniform ensemble. The authorized utility cap is available exclusively at
the Academy PX for purchase at the employee’s expense. The mesh utility cap is
no longer sold at the Academy PX and is being phased out. Current users of the
mesh cap may continue to wear the cap until it is no longer serviceable. The cotton
CHP-copyrighted utility baseball cap may be worn only by the following:
(1) Uniformed employees wearing the utility uniform, except while indoors.
(2) Flight crews performing ground duties while outside the aircraft.
(3) Uniformed employees wearing the cold weather jumpsuit.
(4) Uniformed employees wearing rainwear.
(5) Motorcycle officers, in conjunction with the work uniform (i.e., tan shirt and
breeches), may wear the cotton blue utility (baseball) cap only while engaged
in traffic-related duties at a stable scene (e.g., crash, traffic control, etc.). The
cotton blue utility (baseball) cap is not to be worn while eating meals; during
scheduled breaks; while indoors; or while engaged in enforcement duties, etc.
ee. Eyewear. The following restrictions shall apply while wearing sunglasses or
eyeglasses while on duty:
(1) Mirrored-type or multicolored lenses are prohibited.
6-11 HPM 73.5

(2) The color of frames is restricted to the following nonfluorescent colors:
silver, gold, black, brown, gray, or other conservative colors which do not
detract from the professional appearance of the uniform.
(3) Wearing sunglasses or eyeglasses on top of the head is prohibited.
(4) Eyewear retainers/lanyards are authorized. However, the color of the

retaining strings must be brown or black.
ff. Cellular Telephones. When Department-issued and/or personal cellular

telephones are worn while in uniform, the following restrictions shall apply:
(1) When worn in view, cellular telephones shall only be worn on the duty belt
and shall be restricted to the following nonfluorescent colors: silver, gold,
black, brown, gray, or other conservative colors which do not detract from the
professional appearance of the uniform. Cellular telephones that are not a
conservative color shall be completely concealed from view or may be carried
in a holder and shall be worn only on the duty belt.
(2) Cellular telephones shall be worn in a location on the duty belt that will not
interfere with the retrieval of the primary weapon or other personal protective
equipment.
gg. Rainwear. Departmentally issued rainwear shall be the only acceptable

rainwear for use.
hh. Brass Buckle Trouser Belt. The wearing of this optional trouser belt is intended
for use by uniformed employees in headquarters and field Division assignments
where the work uniform is worn without the duty belt. Additionally, Area
commanders, at their discretion, may approve the wearing of the optional belt for
uniformed employees performing special duty assignments. The primary weapon
shall be worn at all times while in uniform and may be worn with an approved
holster on the brass buckle trouser belt. The brass buckle trouser belt shall not be
worn in conjunction with the duty belt. The purchase and replacement cost of the
belt, which is available at the Academy PX, is at the employee’s expense.
ii. Blue Undergarment Shirt. The navy blue undergarment shirt may be worn in
accordance with Chapter 1 and Chapter 2, General Requirements, of this manual.
The navy blue undergarment shall be constructed of 95 percent polyester/5 percent
Lycra or elastane, with a crew neck. The authorized undergarment is available
through the Academy PX.
jj. Investigator Rapid Deployment Vest. The Investigator Rapid Deployment Vest
(IRDV) is available for uniformed employees who are in plain clothes, assigned to
vehicle theft investigation units, investigative services units, or drug task forces.
HPM 73.5 6-12

The IRDV shall be readily available to wear on call-outs, while assisting allied
agencies, or whenever ballistic protection and officer safety equipment are needed
and the lack of identification could pose a threat to officer safety.
(1) The following are circumstances which would allow the wearing of the
IRDV:
(a) When investigative personnel are in plain clothes and are required to
transition from an investigative mode to an enforcement mode.
(b) When an investigator, in civilian attire, on or off duty, has a need to be

identified as a member of the CHP.
(2) The IRDV is approved to be worn by the following personnel:
(a) Uniformed investigative personnel subject to a call-out after their

normal shift.
(b) Uniformed personnel who wear plain clothes while on duty.
(c) Personnel currently approved to wear the investigator jacket (raid

vest), with Division commander approval.
(3) The IRDV shall not be worn while in uniform.
kk. Tactical Flight Vest. The Tactical Flight Vest (TFV) is a holster-equipped vest
available for wear exclusively by uniformed employees assigned to the Air
Operations Program. The design of the vest allows the wearer to carry required
officer safety equipment, as well as other equipment required by the air operation’s
mission. The TFV provides a safe transition between flight and ground operations.
(1) The TFV is authorized for all flight crew members during all operations and
shall only be worn with the Nomex® flight suit.
(2) Placement of equipment on the TFV shall ensure the ability for the TFV to
be worn in flight and shall not interfere with aircraft or vehicle safety belts.
ll. External Rifle Rated Body Armor and Carrier. External rifle rated body armor
(ERRBA) and carriers consistent with the specifications contained in HPG 73.6,
Chapter 2, Uniform Items, may be purchased using personal funds and utilized on
duty. Uniformed personnel may only wear the ERRBA and carrier when
responding to, or actively involved in, an incident with elevated risk where a greater
chance of being engaged by a suspect with a firearm exists (i.e., high risk/felony
stops, warrant services, response to active shooters, scene containments for
suspects of felonious crimes).
6-13 HPM 73.5

(1) The ERRBA and carrier are intended to be worn on the outside of the
uniform or clothing, as needed, and to be carried while on patrol or in any other
enforcement capacity.
(2) Whenever the ERRBA and carrier are worn, soft body armor shall be worn
underneath.
(3) The ERRBA carrier may be fitted with pouches to carry additional
rifle/pistol magazines and a first aid/trauma kit for tactical response and
immediate access to items identified as being crucial during critical incidents.
(4) To prevent theft, ERRBAs and carriers shall be stored in bags or

containers and secured within departmental vehicles where they will not be
identifiable.
(5) Prior to being carried in the field, a supervisor shall inspect the ERRBA
and carrier to ensure they meet the specifications contained in HPG 73.6,
Chapter 2.
(6) The following items may be purchased, at personal expense, and attached
to the ERRBA carrier:
(a) Pouches for up to two additional tactical rifle magazines.
(b) Maximum of two additional pistol magazines.
(c) Maximum of 18 rounds of 12-gauge 00 buckshot.
(d) A first aid/trauma kit.
(e) Two utility pouches.
mm. Tourniquet Carrying Case. Tourniquet carrying cases consistent with the
specifications contained in HPG 73.6, Chapter 2, may be purchased using personal
funds and utilized on duty.
(1) The North American Rescue Rigid Gen 7 C-A-T® Tourniquet Case is the
only tourniquet carrying case approved for wear.
(2) The tourniquet carrying case may be worn on the duty belt.
(3) The tourniquet carrying case shall not be positioned in a manner which
interferes with the safety equipment or detracts from the appearance of the
uniform.
HPM 73.5 6-14

(4) Prior to being carried in the field, a supervisor shall inspect the tourniquet
carrying case to ensure it meets the specifications contained in HPG 73.6,
Chapter 2.
NOTE: The medical insignia which is attached by a hook-and-pile fastener

shall be removed prior to wearing the tourniquet carrying case on duty.
nn. Gun Belt Support Suspenders. Gun belt support suspenders consistent with
the specifications contained in HPG 73.6, Chapter 3, Safety Equipment, may be
purchased using personal funds and utilized on duty.
(1) The gun belt support suspenders shall be worn under the uniform shirt and
shall not be visible.
(2) The gun belt support suspenders shall not be positioned in a manner
which interferes with the safety equipment.
6-15 HPM 73.5

HPM 73.5 6-16

ANNEX A
GENERAL GUIDELINES–OPTIONAL UNIFORMS AND EQUIPMENT
1. CAP–SUMMER (CANE SIDE)–COMMISSIONERS, CHIEFS, ASSISTANT

CHIEFS. Material: All-wool elastique.
2. STRAW CAMPAIGN HAT. Color: To be California Tan that substantially matches

other uniform items.
3. CAP–COLD WEATHER. Color: Dark blue or black.
4. KNIT CAP (BEANIE)–COLD WEATHER. Color: Navy blue with departmental

wing-wheel patch.
5. CALIFORNIA HIGHWAY PATROL COTTON UTILITY (BASEBALL) CAP.
a. Material. One hundred percent cotton cloth, with copyrighted California

Highway Patrol (CHP) five-color shield-shaped patch, approximately 2 3/4 inches
by 3 3/8 inches, placed on front of cap.
6-17 HPM 73.5

ANNEX A
GENERAL GUIDELINES–OPTIONAL UNIFORMS AND EQUIPMENT (continued)
6. SHORT-SLEEVE SHIRT.
a. Material. The 65 percent polyester and 35 percent rayon dry-clean only blend.
b. Color. Silver-tan.
7. TROUSERS–LIGHTWEIGHT.
a. Material. Wool and blended fabric; 55 percent Dacron polyester and 45

percent wool elastique is the only acceptable blend.
b. Color. Silver-tan.
8. LEATHER MOTORCYCLE JACKET.
a. Material. Genuine horsehide.
b. Color. Black.
9. COLD WEATHER PARKA.
a. Color. Navy blue.
b. Style. Thigh-length with combination collar-hood. To be loose fit with a base

length of 37 inches.
10. ACADEMY OUTSIDE TRAINING UNIFORM. Material, color, and style will be
determined by the Academy commander.
HPM 73.5 6-18

ANNEX A
11. COLD WEATHER JUMPSUIT.
a. Material. Exterior shell to be fire-retardant and water-repellant.
b. Color. Navy blue, special dye-treated for color fastness.
6-19 HPM 73.5

ANNEX A
12. MOCK TURTLENECK.
a. Material. 93 percent cotton and 7 percent Lycra.
b. Color. Navy blue, without design or logo.
c. Style. 2 + 1/16 inch collar.
13. MOCK DICKEY.
a. Material. 93 percent cotton and 7 percent Lycra.
b. Color. Navy blue, without design or logo.
c. Style. 2 + 1/16 inch collar.
HPM 73.5 6-20

ANNEX A
14. SCARF.
a. Material. Silk or wool.
b. Color. Navy blue, without design.
15. GLOVES.
a. Material. Leather or fabric.
b. Color.
(1) Leather. Black or natural finish.
(2) Fabric. Black or tan.
16. HONOR GUARD ACCOUTERMENTS.
a. Ascot.
(1) Material. Rayon.
(2) Color. White.
b. Gloves.
(1) Material. Cotton and nylon blend fabric.
(2) Color. White.
c. Aiguillette.
(1) Material. Nylon.
(2) Color. White.
6-21 HPM 73.5

ANNEX A
17. BELT KEY STRAP–DUTY BELT.
a. Material. Leather, 6 to 7 ounces.
b. Color. Black.
18. BELT SLIDE LOOP (KEEPER)–DUTY BELT.
a. Material. Leather, 6 to 7 ounces.
b. Style. Basket weave with brass snaps.
c. Color. Black.
HPM 73.5 6-22

ANNEX A
19. FLASHLIGHT RING.
a. Material. Leather, 7 ounces.
b. Color. Black.
20. FLASHLIGHT HOLDER.
a. Material. Leather, basket weave.
b. Color. Black.
21. KNIFE HOLDER.
a. Material. Leather, 7 ounces.
b. Color. Black.
6-23 HPM 73.5

ANNEX A
22. TIE CLASP. Plain or textured, with or without emblem.
a. Material. Metal.
b. Color. Gold.
23. TIE BAR. Textured, with or without emblem.
a. Material. Metal.
b. Color. Gold.
24. TIE TACK.
a. Material. Metal.
b. Color. Gold.
c. Other Styles. Oval, blue stone bezel tie tack, approximately 3/4 inch in
diameter, Josten’s style #166 or equal.
HPM 73.5 6-24

ANNEX A
25. ADMINISTRATIVE SAFETY RECOGNITION EMBLEM–TIE BAR (NO LONGER

ISSUED).
a. Material. Metal.
b. Color. Gold.
26. ADMINISTRATIVE SAFETY RECOGNITION EMBLEM–TIE TACK (NO LONGER

ISSUED).
a. Material. Metal.
b. Color. Gold.
27. AUTHORIZED MEDALS AND PINS.
a. Shooting Classification Medal.
(1) Material. Metal.
(2) Color. Gold.
b. State of California 25-Year Service Pin. Style: As awarded by the State of

California.
6-25 HPM 73.5

ANNEX A
c. State of California 25-Year Service Tie Bar. Style: As awarded by the State of
California.
d. Special Act or Service Pin. Style: As awarded by the State of California.
e. 10851 Pin–Initial Award.
(1) Material. Copper with gold plating.
(2) Color. White with blue lettering.
f. 10851 Pin–Master Award.
(2) Color. Blue with gold lettering.
g. 10851 Pin–Lifetime Achievement Award.
(2) Color. Gold with blue lettering.
h. Field Training Officer Pin.
(1) Material. Metal with gold plating.
(2) Color. Gold and blue.
HPM 73.5 6-26

ANNEX A
i. Annual Fitness Challenge Pin.
(1) Material. Metal with gold plating.
(2) Color. Gold, blue, black, and white.
j. Officer-of-the-Year Pin. The Officer-of-the-Year pin shall be representative of

the stature and prestige of the Department, and shall not detract from the
uniformed employee’s appearance. The maximum area encompassed by the pin
shall not exceed one square inch.
k. United States Flag Pin.
(1) Material. All metal.
(2) Color. Gold, red, white, and blue.
l. United States Military Flag Pin.
(2) Color. Gold, red, white, and blue.
m. Drug Recognition Expert/Drug Recognition Expert Instructor Pin.
(2) Color. Gold and blue.
6-27 HPM 73.5

ANNEX A
28. CALL-OUT JACKET.
a. Material. Outer shell, 100 percent polyester microfiber; inner shell, 100 percent
nylon taffeta.
HPM 73.5 6-28

ANNEX A
29. RAINWEAR.
a. Rain Jacket. Color: Yellow with reflectorized tape.
b. Rain Hood. Color: Yellow.
6-29 HPM 73.5

ANNEX A
c. Rain Pants. Color: Yellow with reflectorized tape.
HPM 73.5 6-30

ANNEX A
30. BRASS BUCKLE TROUSER BELT. Belt to be 8- to 9-ounce top-grain cowhide,

basket weave design. Buckle to be brass and accept polish.
31. BLUE UNDERGARMENT SHIRT.
a. Material. Ninety-five percent polyester and 5 percent Lycra or elastane.
b. Style. Crew neck T-shirt.
c. Color. Navy blue.
6-31 HPM 73.5

ANNEX A
32. INVESTIGATOR RAPID DEPLOYMENT VEST.
a. Material. Black nylon vest body.
b. Must be capable of providing ballistic protection equal to, or greater than,

existing departmental soft body armor requirements.
c. Modular Lightweight Load-Carrying Equipment (MOLLE), loop-equipped for the

attachment of equipment pouches.
d. Shall have “POLICE” on front and rear of vest.
(1) Front: POLICE in approximately 1 1/2-inch yellow letters.
(2) Rear: POLICE in approximately 2-inch yellow letters.
e. Shall have the officer’s identification number or name on front in compliance

with California Penal Code Section 830.10.
f. Shall be equipped with pouches capable of carrying required officer safety

equipment.
HPM 73.5 6-32

ANNEX A
33. TACTICAL FLIGHT VEST.
a. Material. Black synthetic (e.g., nylon, polyester) mesh material of a MOLLE

design for the attachment of equipment pouches.
(1) All MOLLE panels and fasteners shall be bar tack stitched for durability
and retention.
(2) At a minimum, binding seams and zipper attachments shall be

double-stitched.
b. Zippered front for retention.
c. Ability to be worn over Department-issued soft body armor.
d. Load-bearing/weight-dispersing.
e. Shall have on the front of the vest:
(1) Upper left chest: Cloth CHP badge.
(2) Upper right chest: Aviation identification nameplate with departmental

wings.
f. Accessories authorized for use on the Tactical Flight Vest (TFV) shall be black
in color and limited to the following:
(1) Holster with retention for departmentally issued firearm.
(2) Double magazine pouch for departmentally issued firearm magazines.
(3) Handcuff case.
(4) Collapsible straight baton holder.
(5) Oleoresin capsicum (OC) spray holster (OC shall not be carried during
flight operations).
(6) Radio holder.
6-33 HPM 73.5

ANNEX A
(7) Flashlight holder.
(8) Small miscellaneous pouches for survival equipment, medical equipment,

folding knife, etc.
(9) Administration pouch for cellular telephone, steno pad, etc.
(10) Helicopter Emergency Egress Device and Personal Helicopter Oxygen

Device pouches.
g. Any additional equipment the wearer wishes to include on their TFV must be
approved by the Office of Air Operations.
34. BAGPIPER UNIFORM ITEMS.
Spats Kilt Pin Kilt Hose with

Flashes
Sgian Dubh Glengarry Horsehair Sporran
HPM 73.5 6-34

ANNEX A
35. TOURNIQUET CARRYING CASE.
a. Material. Injection-molded nylon, basket weave design.
b. Color. Black.
6-35 HPM 73.5

HPM 73.5 6-36

CHAPTER 7
REGULATIONS FOR SPECIALIZED UNIFORM ITEMS
REVISED JANUARY 2018
TABLE OF CONTENTS
GENERAL .................................................................................................................... 7-3

AVIATION .................................................................................................................... 7-3
Aviation Fire-Retardant Garments ............................................................................. 7-3
Nameplate–Aircrew Insignia–Leather ........................................................................ 7-3
Aircrew Winged Insignia ............................................................................................ 7-4
Helmet–Aviation ........................................................................................................ 7-4
Boots–Flight Safety ................................................................................................... 7-4
BICYCLE PATROL....................................................................................................... 7-4
Helmet ....................................................................................................................... 7-4
Footwear ................................................................................................................... 7-4
Shorts ........................................................................................................................ 7-5
Jacket ........................................................................................................................ 7-5
MOUNTED DUTY ........................................................................................................ 7-5
Whistle Chain ............................................................................................................ 7-5
Helmet ....................................................................................................................... 7-5
Boots ......................................................................................................................... 7-5
CHAPLAIN UNIFORM.................................................................................................. 7-5
SPECIAL RESPONSE TEAM ...................................................................................... 7-5
Identification Patch–Type 1 Special Response Team–Cloth ..................................... 7-5
ANNEX
A – GENERAL GUIDELINES FOR SPECIALIZED UNIFORM ITEMS ......................... 7-7
7-1 HPM 73.5

HPM 73.5 7-2

CHAPTER 7
REGULATIONS FOR SPECIALIZED UNIFORM ITEMS
1. GENERAL.
a. The uniform and equipment items in this chapter may be worn by personnel
assigned to specialized duties. These optional items shall conform to the
guidelines in Annex A of this chapter.
b. Uniform specifications for departmental volunteer programs, such as the

Explorer Program and the Senior Volunteer Program, are contained in the
respective manuals for these programs.
2. AVIATION.
a. Aviation Fire-Retardant Garments. Departmental aircrew employees shall

wear the Department-issued fire-retardant flight suit and gloves while performing
flight duties. The Department-issued flight jacket may be worn during periods of
cold weather. Aircrew employees shall not wear any other jacket in lieu of, or in
addition to, the fire-retardant jacket.
(1) Employees shall not wear any exterior flammable clothing during flight
operations. Undergarments should be 100 percent cotton.
(2) Flight suits and flight jackets shall be complete with shoulder patches and
any applicable insignia of rank. Placement of rank and aircrew employee
insignia is specified in paragraph 2.b. of this chapter.
b. Nameplate–Aircrew Insignia–Leather. Aircraft crew employees shall wear the

leather nameplate with the appropriate aircrew insignia when wearing the
Department-issued flight suit and/or flight jacket. The nameplate shall be directly
above and centered over the right pocket.
(1) Pilot Duty. Only aircraft crew employees assigned to and performing pilot
duties are allowed to wear the specified type of pilot wings nameplate.
(2) Flight Officer Duty. Only aircraft crew employees assigned to and
performing flight officer duties are allowed to wear the specified type of aircraft
flight officer wings nameplate.
(3) Executive Officers. Only executive officers assigned to and performing in

the flight operations program are allowed to wear the specified type of leather
nameplate.
7-3 HPM 73.5

c. Aircrew Winged Insignia. Aircraft crew employees may wear the appropriate
winged insignia, as specified below.
(1) Pilot Wings. Only aircraft crew employees assigned to and performing
pilot duties are authorized to wear the specified type of pilot wings.
(2) Flight Officer Wings. Only aircraft crew employees assigned to and
performing aircraft flight officer duties are allowed to wear the specified type of
aircraft flight officer wings.
(3) Placement. The aircrew insignia shall be worn above the Enforcement
Safety Recognition Emblem/nameplate, centered over the right pocket of the
shirt, jacket, or flight suit and shall touch the top edge of the nameplate.
d. Helmet–Aviation. The wearing of helmets by uniformed employees assigned

to flight duty is governed by Highway Patrol Manual 100.7, Air Operations Manual,
Chapter 5, Aviation Safety.
e. Boots–Flight Safety. Footwear worn with the flight suit shall conform to the
specifications in Annex A of this chapter.
3. BICYCLE PATROL. Departmental employees shall wear the approved bicycle

uniform while performing bicycle duties (refer to Annex A). The approved bicycle jacket
may be worn during periods of cold weather.
NOTE: The bicycle shirt and bicycle jacket shall be complete with shoulder patches and
applicable insignia of rank. Placement of rank insignia shall be in accordance with
policy for other uniform items.
a. Helmet. The Department-issued bicycle helmet shall be worn at all times while
the officer is riding the departmental bicycle.
b. Footwear. Footwear worn with the bicycle uniform shall conform to the
specifications in Annex A of this chapter.
HPM 73.5 7-4

c. Shorts. Departmental employees may wear the approved shorts while
performing bicycle patrol duties.
d. Jacket. Departmental bicycle patrol employees may wear the approved bicycle
jacket while performing bicycle duties.
4. MOUNTED DUTY.
a. Whistle Chain. Departmental mounted patrol employees assigned to and while

performing mounted patrol duties may use the approved whistle chain.
b. Helmet. Departmental mounted patrol employees shall wear the

Department-issued helmet while performing mounted patrol duties.
c. Boots. Boots shall conform to the specifications contained in Annex A of this

chapter.
5. CHAPLAIN UNIFORM. The Chaplain insignia is not authorized for wear on the
uniform.
6. SPECIAL RESPONSE TEAM.
a. Identification Patch–Type 1 Special Response Team–Cloth. Special Response

Team members shall wear the appropriate cloth identification patch (refer to
Annex A) when wearing the turtle suit/vest. The identification patch shall be directly
above and centered over the right pocket.
7-5 HPM 73.5

HPM 73.5 7-6

ANNEX A
GENERAL GUIDELINES FOR SPECIALIZED UNIFORM ITEMS
1. AVIATION FIRE-RETARDANT GARMENTS.
a. Flight Suits.
(1) Fabric. The fabric shall be 6 1/2-ounce Nomex III gabardine.
(2) Color. The color shall be khaki (tan).
NOTE: The flight suit shall be complete with rank insignia and shoulder
patches.
b. Gloves.
(1) Fabric. The fabric shall be a single layer of 9.6-ounce knit Nomex.
(2) Color. Brown, military type.
c. Jacket.
(1) Name. The jacket shall be known as the California Highway Patrol Nomex
Flight Jacket.
(2) Fabric. The fabric shall be 6 1/2-ounce Nomex III gabardine. The color
shall be navy blue. All pockets, facing, and inserts shall be of the same
material.
2. HELMET–AVIATION.
a. Material. To be fiberglass and must meet current military specifications for

aviators’ helmets (Gentex Corporation or equivalent).
b. Color. White.
c. Accessories. To be equipped with dual visors, one clear and one tinted, with a
single visor housing. When not in use, the helmet and accessories shall be stored
in the Department-issued carrying bag.
d. Flag Decals. United States flag decals shall be centered on the back of the
helmet, 1 1/2 inches above the base of the helmet.
7-7 HPM 73.5

ANNEX A
GENERAL GUIDELINES FOR SPECIALIZED UNIFORM ITEMS (continued)
3. BOOTS–FLIGHT SAFETY.
a. Material. Leather.
b. Color. Boots shall be black polishable leather or the specified non-all leather
aviation boots. Boot laces shall be black in color (Chippewa ESP-242 Firefighter
Boot, Belleville 700, or Belleville 770).
c. Style. To be of top quality, zippered, and laced in the front. Boots shall be 9 to
11 inches in height.
NOTE: Speed laces secured with cinch clamps may be worn by employees
assigned to the Division Air Operations Unit, purchased at their own expense.
4. NAMEPLATE–AIRCREW INSIGNIA.
a. Material. Leather.
b. Color. Black with gold embossing.
c. Style. To be rectangular in shape, size approximately 2 inches in width

and 4 inches in length. To be embroidered.
d. Specifications. Specifications of aircrew employees’ insignia nameplates will

be controlled through the Office of Air Operations. Actual manufactured nameplate
to match the sample provided by the Office of Air Operations.
HPM 73.5 7-8

ANNEX A
5. BICYCLE DUTY–UNIFORM.
a. Shirt, Long-Sleeve.
(1) Fabric. To be made of 94 percent performance nylon and 6 percent Lycra

stretch, with moisture management. Shall have a Teflon finish for stain,
wrinkle, and snag resistance. Refer to Highway Patrol Guide (HPG) 73.6,
Uniform and Equipment Specifications Guide, Chapter 2, Uniform Items, for
further specifications.
(2) Color. Navy blue.
NOTE: The shirt for female officers may be designed to include up to six darts.
b. Shirt, Short-Sleeve. The short-sleeve shirt shall meet the same specifications
as the long-sleeve shirt, with the exception of the sleeves.
c. Pants.

wrinkle, and snag resistance. Refer to HPG 73.6, Chapter 2, for further
specifications.
(3) Style. To be pull-on style, shaped to conform to the body of the wearer.
Shall have tapered legs, with ankle tabs with hook and loop closure at the hem,
as well as a zipper front fly.
(4) Optional Zip-Off Pant Legs.
(a) Zipper. A zipper on each pant leg allows the pants to become shorts.
(b) Length. When worn as shorts, shall not be higher than 1 inch above
the top of the knee.
7-9 HPM 73.5

ANNEX A
d. Shorts.

wrinkle, and snag resistance. Refer to HPG 73.6, Chapter 2, for further
specifications.
(3) Style. To be pull-on style, shaped to conform to the figure of the wearer.
Shall have a zipper-front fly.
(4) Length. Shall not be higher than 1 inch above the top of the knee.
e. Helmet.
(1) Color. Shell to be finished blue and gold with a durable high-gloss finish.
All leather parts showing to the outside, when worn, to be finished black.
(2) Flag Decals. United States flag decals shall be centered on the left side of
the helmet, directly above the CHP logo.
f. Footwear.
(1) Style. To be athletic style high-top or low-top shoes. Shoes and laces
shall be solid black in color. The soles should be relatively smooth and easily
removed from the foot straps on the bicycle pedals.
(2) Maximum Toe Point Contour. Shoes with toes that have a sharper
(pointed) toe than shown in Annex A of Chapter 5, Regulations for Required
Uniform Items, of this manual are not acceptable and shall not be worn.
(3) Heel Thickness and Allowable Bevel. Shoes or boots with heels thicker
than 1 1/2 inches are not to be worn. Heels with a bevel in excess of 1/4 inch
are not allowed.
HPM 73.5 7-10

ANNEX A
6. MOUNTED DUTY.
a. Helmet. Same as motorcycle duty helmet. Refer to Chapter 5 of this manual

for policy and specifications.
(1) Color. Shell to be finished blue and gold with a durable high-gloss finish.
All leather parts showing to the outside, when worn, to be finished black.
(2) Flag Decals. United States flag decals shall be centered on the back of
the helmet in the black portion, 1/2 inch below the gold edge.
b. Boots.
(1) Style. To be plain-toed, with smooth finish, and laced-over instep not to
exceed 8 inches. Black calfskin vamp with black Dehcord uppers. Upper
outside of top to include gore that does not exceed 4 inches, with lace, zipper,
or strap and buckle closure. Boot laces shall be black in color. Soles are to be
smooth or ribbed.
NOTE: Boots with concealed back seam zippers may be worn when the size
of the wearer’s legs precludes the wearing of boots of regular construction.
7-11 HPM 73.5

ANNEX A
(2) Upper Stock. Height to be not less than 18 inches or more than 20 inches.
Height of leg is measured from the sole to the top of the inside of the boot.
NOTE: When the length of a wearer’s legs preclude the wearing of boots
within prescribed dimensions, a shorter or taller boot may be worn provided the
top of the boot, after wrinkling at the ankle, is not less than 1 inch below the
bone on the inside of the leg, which is known to the boot industry as the boot
bone.
7. IDENTIFICATION PATCH–TYPE 1 SPECIAL RESPONSE TEAM.
a. Material. Cloth.
b. Color. Black with gold embossing.
c. Style. Rectangular in shape, hook-and-pile backing.
d. Size. Approximately 2 inches in width, 4 inches in length.
e. Specifications. Specifications for the Type 1 Special Response Team

employee turtle suit/vest identification patch will be at the direction of the Assistant
Commissioner, Field (ACF). Actual manufactured identification patch to match the
sample provided by ACF.
HPM 73.5 7-12

CHAPTER 8
WEARING OF THE UNIFORM–PROGRAM OF ENTERTAINMENT
REVISED MAY 2019
TABLE OF CONTENTS
POLICY ........................................................................................................................ 8-3

Written Requests ....................................................................................................... 8-3
Departmental Responsibility ...................................................................................... 8-3
Petitioner Responsibility ............................................................................................ 8-3
GENERAL .................................................................................................................... 8-3
Vehicle Code Requirements ...................................................................................... 8-3
Program of Entertainment, Defined ........................................................................... 8-3
Departmental Intent ................................................................................................... 8-4
Applicant Agreement ................................................................................................. 8-4
PROCEDURE FOR AUTHORIZATION........................................................................ 8-4
General...................................................................................................................... 8-4
Approval Authority ..................................................................................................... 8-4
Notification................................................................................................................. 8-4
Distribution ................................................................................................................ 8-4
8-1 HPM 73.5

HPM 73.5 8-2

CHAPTER 8
WEARING OF THE UNIFORM–PROGRAM OF ENTERTAINMENT
1. POLICY.
a. Written Requests. The Commissioner may grant approval to reputable firms,

corporations, groups, or individuals presenting written requests for the wearing of a
uniform substantially similar to the official California Highway Patrol (CHP) uniform
provided.
(1) All requests are submitted directly to, or forwarded to, the Office of
Community Outreach and Media Relations (COMR).
(2) A complete script is attached to the request for the Commissioner’s

review.
b. Departmental Responsibility. Employees of the CHP shall not undertake the

responsibility of reviewing and editing scripts or scenarios in conjunction with
requests for wearing the official CHP uniform.
c. Petitioner Responsibility. The petitioner is responsible for the portrayal of

individuals represented or depicted as wearing a uniform substantially similar to the
official CHP uniform in accordance with the conditions of the approval. If changes
occur in the script at any time, a new request must be submitted with the new script
to COMR for approval.
2. GENERAL.
a. Vehicle Code Requirements. California Vehicle Code Section 2261 states: “A

uniform substantially similar to the official uniform of members of the California
Highway Patrol shall not be worn by any other law enforcement officer or by any
other person except duly appointed members of the California Highway Patrol and
persons authorized by the Commissioner to wear such uniform in connection with a
program of entertainment. A uniform shall be deemed substantially similar to the
uniform of the California Highway Patrol if it so resembles such official uniform as to
cause an ordinary reasonable person to believe that the person wearing the
uniform is a member of the California Highway Patrol.”
b. Program of Entertainment, Defined. A program of entertainment shall include,

but not be limited to, stage plays, television and motion picture productions, or
other media intended to submit presentations to public view.
8-3 HPM 73.5

c. Departmental Intent. The Department does not intend to be overly restrictive
with the entertainment industry by impeding productions sponsored by firms,
groups, or individuals which obtain technical authenticity through the wearing of a
uniform substantially similar to the official CHP uniform.
d. Applicant Agreement. The uniform of the CHP is symbolic of the dignity and
sovereignty of the State of California, and it is essential that it be worn in a manner
which will command respect and cast honor and esteem toward the Department
and the State of California. Therefore, a firm, group, or individual submitting a
formal request for any representative or employee to wear a uniform substantially
similar to the official CHP uniform agrees to the aforementioned conditions.
3. PROCEDURE FOR AUTHORIZATION.
a. General. The applicant should submit their request to COMR to wear the CHP
or similar uniform.
b. Approval Authority. Approval to represent the likeness of the CHP will come
directly from the Commissioner’s office.
c. Notification. The Office of COMR will notify the petitioner in writing of the
approval or denial of the request.
d. Distribution. Approved requests shall be distributed as follows:
(1) Original letter is sent to the petitioner.
(2) A copy shall be retained by COMR.
(3) Retention period shall be two years plus current.
HPM 73.5 8-4

CHAPTER 9
NONUNIFORMED EMPLOYEE DRESS AND GROOMING STANDARDS
REVISED MAY 2019
TABLE OF CONTENTS
GENERAL .................................................................................................................... 9-3

NONUNIFORMED MALE ADMINISTRATIVE AND STAFF SERVICES
EMPLOYEES ............................................................................................................ 9-3
Nonuniformed Employees in Public Contact Positions or Performing Their
Duties Within the View of the Public ........................................................................ 9-3
Removal of Ties ........................................................................................................ 9-3
Appearance ............................................................................................................... 9-3
NONUNIFORMED FEMALE ADMINISTRATIVE AND STAFF SERVICES
EMPLOYEES ............................................................................................................ 9-3
Nonuniformed Employees in Public Contact Positions or Performing Their
Duties Within the View of the Public ........................................................................ 9-3
Casual Sportswear .................................................................................................... 9-3
Appearance ............................................................................................................... 9-3
NONUNIFORMED MALE AND FEMALE INSPECTION, AUTOMOTIVE
SERVICE, AND TRADE PERSONNEL ..................................................................... 9-4
Appearance ............................................................................................................... 9-4
Safety Equipment ...................................................................................................... 9-4
TRIBUTE OF MOURNING RIBBON FOR NONUNIFORMED PERSONNEL .............. 9-4
Placement ................................................................................................................. 9-4
Accouterment Combinations ..................................................................................... 9-4
ANNEX
A – GENERAL GUIDELINES–NONUNIFORMED EMPLOYEES ................................ 9-5
9-1 HPM 73.5

HPM 73.5 9-2

CHAPTER 9
NONUNIFORMED EMPLOYEE DRESS AND GROOMING STANDARDS
1. GENERAL. Nonuniformed employees of this Department are expected to wear

attire appropriate for the duties of their position and consistent with the professional
image of the Department. The following guidelines have been established to assist
employees in their selection of appropriate civilian attire. Employees should be aware
that a large number of people judge them and their organization by their attire.
2. NONUNIFORMED MALE ADMINISTRATIVE AND STAFF SERVICES

EMPLOYEES.
a. Nonuniformed Employees in Public Contact Positions or Performing Their

Duties Within the View of the Public. For most positions within this category,
“normal business attire,” i.e., shirt and tie, is the expected mode of dress. Care
should be taken that the individual’s attire does not detract from the professional
image of the Department.
b. Removal of Ties. During periods of warm weather, commanders may

authorize the removal of ties within the office. It is expected that nonuniformed
employees within this category will have a coat and tie readily available for
unexpected occasions when this mode of dress is appropriate. Shirts and slacks
worn during this period should be appropriate for wearing with coat and tie.
c. Appearance. Nonuniformed employees in this category shall present a neat,

clean appearance, and head and facial hair should be consistent with a business
environment.
3. NONUNIFORMED FEMALE ADMINISTRATIVE AND STAFF SERVICES

EMPLOYEES.
a. Nonuniformed Employees in Public Contact Positions or Performing Their

Duties Within the View of the Public. Normal business attire for nonuniformed
employees within this category is dresses, pant suits, or coordinated pant and
blouse sets.
b. Casual Sportswear. Casual sportswear, shorts, or micro-mini skirts are

inappropriate for a business environment.
c. Appearance. Nonuniformed employees in this category shall present a neat,

clean appearance, and hair shall be consistent with a business environment.
9-3 HPM 73.5

4. NONUNIFORMED MALE AND FEMALE INSPECTION, AUTOMOTIVE SERVICE,
AND TRADE PERSONNEL.
a. Appearance. Nonuniformed employees in this category are expected to

present an appearance that is consistent with the professional image of the
Department. Coveralls and working attire shall be properly maintained and worn in
a neat and clean manner consistent with the duties performed. Employees utilizing
powered vehicles, machines, or tools shall avoid clothing and hairstyles that are a
safety hazard.
b. Safety Equipment. Departmental safety equipment required for specific

assignments shall be worn at all times during the performance of these
assignments.
5. TRIBUTE OF MOURNING RIBBON FOR NONUNIFORMED PERSONNEL.
a. Placement. The tribute of mourning ribbon may be worn on the lapel area
under the following conditions:
(1) Statewide, when flags are displayed at half-staff for the death of a
departmental employee killed in the line of duty.
(2) Locally, at the discretion of Area commanders upon notification of the

death of a local law enforcement officer killed in the line of duty. The ribbon
shall be removed the calendar day following the funeral services.
(3) As otherwise directed by the Commissioner.
b. Accouterment Combinations. The tribute of mourning ribbon may be worn in

conjunction with the United States flag or the California Highway Patrol (CHP) Star
pin.
HPM 73.5 9-4

ANNEX A
GENERAL GUIDELINES–NONUNIFORMED EMPLOYEES
1. CALIFORNIA HIGHWAY PATROL FEMALE EMPLOYEES.
a. General. The specifications for the California Highway Patrol (CHP) female
employee’s prescribed optional uniform set forth in this annex are construed to
mean minimum requirements.
b. Optional Uniform Accessories.
(1) Nameplate. All metal construction, plain without design with polished gold
finish with royal blue lettering.
(2) Nonuniformed Safety Recognition Emblem. Metal, gold.
(3) Tribute of Mourning Ribbon for Nonuniformed Personnel.
(a) Ribbon.
1 Material. Polyester.
2 Color. Black.
3 Style. To be 3/8 inch wide, 6 inches in length, and assembled as

explained and illustrated.
9-5 HPM 73.5

ANNEX A
GENERAL GUIDELINES–NONUNIFORMED EMPLOYEES (continued)
(b) Back Clasp.
1 Material. Metal.
2 Color. Silver.
3 Style. To be 3/4 inch in length.
(c) Thread. Color: Black.
NOTE: Materials to be purchased using petty cash or Procurement

Card.
(d) To Assemble.
1 Straight cut the ribbon to be 6 inches in length.
2 Sew the back clasp parallel to one side of the ribbon, with the
bottom of the clasp measuring approximately 3/4 inch from the end of
the ribbon to the bottom of the clasp.
3 After securing the clasp, loop and overlap the ribbon, forming an
inverted ‘V’ at the bottom. It should measure approximately 1 1/4
inches from each end to where the ribbon crosses in the center.
4 After crossing the ribbon to form a loop, tack the center portion
using 2 stitches to prevent movement.
NOTE: The design of the tribute of mourning ribbon is similar to the

ribbon worn to signify the fight against or in recognition of
Autoimmune Deficiency Syndrome, cancer, etc.
HPM 73.5 9-6

ANNEX A
GENERAL GUIDELINES–NONUNIFORMED EMPLOYEES (continued)
2. CALIFORNIA HIGHWAY PATROL MALE NONUNIFORMED EMPLOYEES.
a. General. The specifications for the CHP male nonuniformed employee uniform
set forth in this annex are construed to mean minimum requirements.
b. Optional Uniform Accessories.
(1) Tribute of Mourning Ribbon. Refer to paragraph 1.b.(3) of this annex for
specifications.
(2) Nonuniformed Safety Recognition Emblem. Metal, gold.
9-7 HPM 73.5

HPM 73.5 9-8

CHAPTER 10
UNIFORM AND EQUIPMENT INSPECTION
REVISED MAY 2019
TABLE OF CONTENTS
PERSONNEL INSPECTION ...................................................................................... 10-3

General.................................................................................................................... 10-3
Conduct Formal Inspection...................................................................................... 10-3
Requirements .......................................................................................................... 10-3
Documentation ........................................................................................................ 10-3
ITEMS OF INSPECTION ........................................................................................... 10-3
Grooming–Male ....................................................................................................... 10-3
Grooming–Female ................................................................................................... 10-4
The Uniform ............................................................................................................. 10-4
Accouterments ........................................................................................................ 10-4
Duty Belt Equipment ................................................................................................ 10-4
Primary Weapon ...................................................................................................... 10-5
Ammunition ............................................................................................................. 10-5
Handcuffs ................................................................................................................ 10-5
Handcuff Case ......................................................................................................... 10-5
Additional Items ....................................................................................................... 10-6
PRIMARY WEAPON INSPECTION ........................................................................... 10-6
Primary Weapons .................................................................................................... 10-6
Secondary Weapons ............................................................................................... 10-6
FORMAL INSPECTIONS (FORMATION) .................................................................. 10-7
Preinspection ........................................................................................................... 10-7
Inspection Commands ............................................................................................. 10-7
Posting for Inspection .............................................................................................. 10-8
THE INSPECTION PROCESS ................................................................................... 10-8
General.................................................................................................................... 10-8
Inspection Arms ....................................................................................................... 10-9
The Inspection ......................................................................................................... 10-9
Dismissal ............................................................................................................... 10-10
10-1 HPM 73.5

HPM 73.5 10-2

CHAPTER 10
UNIFORM AND EQUIPMENT INSPECTION
1. PERSONNEL INSPECTION.
a. General. The nature of the job requires that employees maintain a high
standard of appearance. This standard can only be upheld with the use of an
ongoing program of review and correction by supervisors.
b. Conduct Formal Inspection. This chapter outlines the formal inspection

process. The evaluating officer should assess the positions of attention and parade
rest, and the execution of inspection arms as each person is approached.
Inspectors should familiarize themselves with these positions and commands
before conducting the inspection. If the evaluating officer is an Assistant Chief, the
Area commander should assist; this is in addition to the sergeant who is to note
commendations and discrepancies.
c. Requirements. A Uniform and Equipment Inspection shall be conducted

annually at every Area command to include commercial vehicle enforcement
facilities and headquarters commands. The Division Chief shall specify which type
of uniform is to be inspected (formal, work, or utility uniform).
d. Documentation. Once a Uniform and Equipment Inspection has been

conducted, the Area shall document the occurrence in a memorandum and a copy
shall be forwarded to the respective Division for approval. The memorandum shall
be kept on file until superseded by the next inspection.
2. ITEMS OF INSPECTION.
a. Grooming–Male. Refer to Chapter 3, Grooming Requirements, of this manual

for standards.
(1) Haircuts (trimmed).
(2) Clean shaven.
(3) Mustache (neatly trimmed).
(4) Sideburns (proper length/width).
(5) Hands (fingernails clean).
(6) Physical fitness–compliance with standards.
10-3 HPM 73.5

b. Grooming–Female. Refer to Chapter 3 of this manual for standards.
(1) Hair (trimmed/neat/no decorations).
(2) Earrings (not permitted).
(3) Cosmetics (subdued/blends with skin).
(4) Fingernails (proper length/polish clear).
(5) Physical fitness–compliance with standards.
c. The Uniform.
(1) Hat (regulation and appropriate for rank).
(2) Tie (clean).
(3) Shirt (clean, service stripes, patches, buttons proper size, etc.).
(4) Green jacket (clean, service stripes, patches).
(5) Trousers (clean, properly sized).
(6) Socks (authorized color).
(7) Shoes (plain round toe, no visible ornamental buckle, etc.).
(8) Trouser belt.
d. Accouterments.
(1) Approved tie clasp.
(2) Badge and hat/cap piece.
(3) Nameplate or Enforcement Safety Recognition Emblem.
(4) Medals (positioned properly).
(5) All metal accouterments to have a solid brass appearance.
e. Duty Belt Equipment.
(1) Duty belt (clean and serviceable).
(2) Baton ring.
HPM 73.5 10-4

(3) Handcuff and safety device, or strap.
(4) Handcuff case (single or double case).
(5) Magazine pouch (magazines emptied from pouches).
(6) Aerosol subject restraint projector (expiration date and orifice

unobstructed).
(7) Aerosol subject restraint projector holster (sized for projector).
f. Primary Weapon.
(1) Unloaded.
(2) Clean.
g. Ammunition.
(1) Age (clean, serviceable, approved).
(2) Load (factory load, unaltered, .40 caliber Department issue).
(3) Extra rounds (22, emptied from magazine).
(4) Magazine and one extra round in support side pant pocket.
h. Handcuffs.
(1) Locking ratchet in good condition.
(a) Holds securely when single-locked.
(b) Handcuffs can be double-locked and must hold when double-locked.
(2) Interlocking area is free of foreign matter.
(3) Handcuffs are approved type (refer to Chapter 5, Regulations for Required
Uniform Items, Annex A, of this manual).
(4) The employee has the correct key for handcuffs.
(5) Finish is to be chrome or nickel.
i. Handcuff Case.
(1) Case free of foreign matter.
10-5 HPM 73.5

(2) Holds handcuffs securely.
j. Additional Items.
(1) Valid driver license.
(2) Departmental ID card in good condition.
(3) Watch.
(4) Pen (blue/black ink) and/or pencil.
(5) Twelve rounds ammunition from emptied primary weapon.
3. PRIMARY WEAPON INSPECTION.
a. Primary Weapons. Primary weapons are to be inspected semiannually by the

Area Weapons Officers.
(1) Survey a sample of the CHP 311, Annual Officer Safety/Protective

Equipment Inspection, form to determine if the Area is complying with this
requirement.
(2) Deficiencies in mechanical condition or appearance are to be corrected

within 30 calendar days of the inspection.
(3) Check to ensure temporary replacement weapons are readily available

from Division.
(4) Check to ensure the weapons are listed on all required forms (refer to
Highway Patrol Manual 70.8, Firearms Manual, for required forms).
b. Secondary Weapons.
(1) Is there a record maintained on employees authorized to carry secondary

weapons?
(2) Are secondary weapons and holsters being inspected annually?
(3) Is there a system established to assure employees’ proficiency in handling

the secondary weapon?
(4) Is it mandatory an employee qualifies with the weapon prior to approval to

carry?
HPM 73.5 10-6

4. FORMAL INSPECTIONS (FORMATION).
a. Preinspection.
(1) Weapons. Weapons to be inspected shall be UNLOADED prior to

assembly of personnel for inspection. This shall be supervised by a sergeant.
(2) Accessory Items. Accessory items will be randomly checked by the

inspecting uniformed employee. Therefore, the sergeant in charge should
check each item listed in paragraph 2. of this chapter for each person prior to
the inspection. (Cards, licenses, etc., should be placed in the front trouser
pocket on the holster side just prior to inspection.)
b. Inspection Commands. There is no motion at the preparatory command, only

at the command of execution. (Execution commands are in bold print for clarity.)
(1) “Fall In.”
(a) Officers shall arrange themselves in descending order according to

height, tallest to the right of each rank, maintaining a maximum of nine
persons per rank. Additional sergeants shall join the last rank. Distance
between ranks shall be two spaces.
(b) At the command Fall In, each person except the one to the left
extends their left arm laterally at shoulder height, palm of hand down,
fingers extended.
(c) Each person except the one on the right turns head and eyes to the
right and moves in line so that the right shoulder touches (lightly) the tips
of the fingers of the person on the right. As soon as proper intervals have
been obtained, each person drops their left arm smartly to their side
without command and turns their head to the front, assuming a position of
“Attention.”
(2) Position of Attention. Heels on the same line and as near each other as
the conformation of the person permits. Feet turned out equally to form a
45-degree angle. Knees straight without stiffness. Hips level and drawn back
slightly, body erect and resting equally on the hips. Chest lifted and arched,
shoulders square and falling equally. Arms hanging straight down without
stiffness so the thumbs are along the seams of the trousers; back of hands out,
fingers curled into palm. Head erect and squarely to the front; chin drawn in so
that the axis of the head and neck is vertical; eyes straight to the front. Weight
of the body resting equally on the heels and balls of the feet.
10-7 HPM 73.5

(3) “Dress Right, Dress.” At the command “Dress,” each person except the
one on the left extends their left arm as in Fall In and all except the person on
the right turn their heads and eyes to the right. All align themselves on the
right guide or first person on the right.
(4) “Ready Front.” The sergeant will move by the most direct route to the
right end of the formation and dress the alignment of the ranks. Having
checked the alignment, the sergeant moves three paces forward and to the
center of the formation, halts, faces the formation, and commands Ready
Front. At the command Front, arms are dropped quietly and smartly to the
side, and heads turned to the front; the sergeant executes an “About Face.”
c. Posting for Inspection. According to the following directions, the sergeant will
turn over command of the formation to the Area commander who, in turn, will
present the formation to the inspecting officer. (If the inspecting officer is the Area
commander, the middle step may be omitted or a lieutenant may function as the
Area commander.)
(1) The Area commander and the inspecting officer should be positioned
inconspicuously to the side or rear of the formation while it is being formed.
Once formed and the sergeant is in position, the Area commander shall
proceed to a position approximately three paces in front of the sergeant, facing
the formation. At this time, the sergeant shall salute and state, “Captain,
lieutenant, etc., the formation is ready for inspection.” The Area commander
shall return the salute and respond, “Sergeant is to proceed to the ‘guide-on’
position” (an arm’s length to the right of the first person in the first rank and in
line with that rank) and assume a position of Attention.
(2) As the sergeant is assuming position, the Area commander shall move
forward three paces and execute an About Face. When both are in position,
the inspecting officer shall proceed to a position approximately three paces in
front of the Area commander, facing the formation. As soon as the inspecting
officer is in position, the Area commander shall salute and state, “Sir or Ma’am,
the formation is ready for inspection.” The inspecting officer shall return the
salute and respond, “Accompany me.” The inspecting officer, with the Area
commander following, will then proceed by the most direct route to the right
front rank, facing the sergeant. The Area commander will be positioned to the
left of the inspecting officer.
5. THE INSPECTION PROCESS.
a. General. The inspecting officer shall conduct the inspection. The Area
commander shall accompany and assist as requested. Once inspected, the
HPM 73.5 10-8

sergeant in charge shall accompany the inspecting officer and the Area
commander prepared to take appropriate notes.
b. Inspection Arms. When the inspecting officer orders the Area commander to
“Accompany me,” the sergeant shall quietly order “Inspection Arms.” The sergeant
and the next person in the front rank will draw their unloaded weapon from their
holster and come to the position of the Inspection Arms.
(1) Inspection Arms. Draw weapon with right hand, trigger finger against right
side of frame directly below the slide. (If left-handed, the left hand is used to
draw, then pass the weapon to the right hand, lock slide to the rear.) The pistol
should be held 6 inches in front of and at shoulder height, with the right
forearm forming a 30-degree angle, the barrel being a prolongation of the
forearm.
(2) Firearm Inspection. The inspection shall consist of inspecting the pistol for
defects and overall cleanliness. The inspecting officer will grasp the pistol by
the barrel with the left hand and briskly remove it from the officer’s hand.
When the inspecting officer takes the pistol, the person being inspected will
drop right arm to side and remain at Attention until the pistol is returned. The
officer will receive the pistol at Inspection Arms position from the inspecting
officer, release the slide, decock, and immediately return the pistol to holster.
While remaining at Attention, when the inspecting officer completes inspection
of the first officer, the third officer should assume the Inspection Arms position.
When the second officer has been inspected, the fourth officer should assume
the Inspection Arms position and so on until the rank is completed. When the
next rank is called to Attention, the first two officers should assume the
Inspection Arms position.
(3) Parade Rest. As the inspecting officer begins inspecting the first rank, the
sergeant in charge shall order the remaining ranks to Parade Rest. Parade
Rest is a partially relaxed modification of the position of Attention in which the
legs are spread, heels about 12 inches apart, and the hands clasped behind
the back.
c. The Inspection. The inspecting officer will move along the front of each rank
inspecting each officer’s grooming, weapon, uniform, and accouterments. (As the
inspecting officer is inspecting the last officer in a rank, the sergeant in charge shall
call the next rank to Attention.) Upon reaching the end of the rank, the inspecting
officer will return, viewing the officers from their backs. When the inspecting officer
begins inspection of the next rank, the sergeant in charge shall order the rank just
inspected Parade Rest. When the last person is inspected, the sergeant in charge
shall order the rest of the formation to Attention.
10-9 HPM 73.5

d. Dismissal. When the inspection of personnel is completed, the inspecting
officer will instruct the sergeant in charge to dismiss the detail. The sergeant will
return to the position from which the formation was assembled, convey any
commendations, instructions, or information and order “Formation Dismissed.”
WEAPONS are to be RELOADED immediately after dismissal upon direction of the
sergeant in charge or other Area supervisor.
HPM 73.5 10-10

CHAPTER 11
UNIFORM COMMITTEE
REVISED NOVEMBER 2021
TABLE OF CONTENTS
GENERAL .................................................................................................................. 11-3

The Uniform Committee .......................................................................................... 11-3
Uniform Committee Membership ............................................................................. 11-3
Uniform Committee Chairperson ............................................................................. 11-3
Uniform Committee Meetings .................................................................................. 11-4
Uniform Committee Meeting Minutes ...................................................................... 11-4
Term Limits .............................................................................................................. 11-4
CHANGES TO UNIFORMS ....................................................................................... 11-4
Uniform Change Proposals...................................................................................... 11-4
Uniform Testing and Evaluation............................................................................... 11-5
Uniform Garment Test Procedures .......................................................................... 11-5
ANNEX
A – SAMPLE UNIFORM CHANGE PROPOSAL MEMORANDUM ............................ 11-7
11-1 HPM 73.5

HPM 73.5 11-2

CHAPTER 11
UNIFORM COMMITTEE
1. GENERAL.
a. The Uniform Committee. The Uniform Committee functions as an advisory

body to the Commissioner on changes to Highway Patrol Manual 73.5,
Uniform/Grooming and Equipment Standards.
b. Uniform Committee Membership. Uniform Committee members are appointed

by the Commissioner and serve a three-year term.
(1) Membership.
(a) One Chief
(b) One Assistant Chief
(c) One captain
(d) One lieutenant
(e) One sergeant
(f) One officer
(g) One representative from the California Association of Highway

Patrolmen
(2) Ex-Officio Membership.
(a) Academy, Administrative Services Unit
(b) Business Services Section, Purchasing Services Unit
(c) Office of Employee Relations
(d) Office of Risk Management, Occupational Safety Unit
c. Uniform Committee Chairperson. The Commissioner will select a chairperson

from the members of the Uniform Committee. The chairperson will serve at the
discretion of the Commissioner for a three-year period.
11-3 HPM 73.5

d. Uniform Committee Meetings. The Uniform Committee convenes at least
annually at the discretion of the chairperson.
e. Uniform Committee Meeting Minutes. Uniform Committee meeting minutes

with current uniform proposals are submitted by memorandum to the
Commissioner. A synopsis of the meeting minutes with the Commissioner’s
decisions on the uniform proposals is disseminated to all commanders by
memorandum.
f. Term Limits. Three-year term limits have been established for committee
members. These term limits shall be staggered so the majority of the members at
any time are tenured.
2. CHANGES TO UNIFORMS.
a. Uniform Change Proposals.
(1) Procedure. All proposals for uniform or equipment changes, additions, or

deletions shall be submitted through channels to the Academy, Administrative
Services Unit, on a memorandum. (Refer to Annex A.) By necessity, each
uniform proposal memorandum will be different and unique.
(2) Format/Content of Uniform Change Proposal.
(a) Opening paragraph briefly explaining the purpose of the

memorandum.
(b) Background on the issue or item prompting the proposal.
(c) Detailed explanation of issues/problems associated with the current

uniform/equipment item.
(d) The proposed change/solution.
(e) Description of research and testing conducted in support of the

proposal and feedback received from the individuals involved.
(f) Photographs, drawings, supporting literature, and/or a sample of the

proposed item.
(3) Proposal Review Process.
(a) Each level of review shall attach a cover memorandum indicating the
proposal has been received, reviewed, and is being forwarded in
accordance with this chapter. The cover memorandum may indicate
HPM 73.5 11-4

support or opposition on the part of the reviewing command; however,
such information is not required.
(b) The Uniform Committee will discuss the proposal at the next
scheduled Uniform Committee meeting and develop recommendations for
the Commissioner.
(c) The Commissioner reviews the Uniform Committee’s

recommendations and makes a final decision on the proposal.
b. Uniform Testing and Evaluation. The Academy is responsible for the

coordination of testing and evaluating proposed uniform and equipment items.
c. Uniform Garment Test Procedures.
(1) Evaluation. Manufacturers submitting uniform garments for evaluation are

required to provide the Department with a minimum of 16 garments.
(2) Selection of Test Areas. The Academy shall coordinate with field
Divisions when selecting test Areas. The Areas selected for testing should
have contrasting climatic conditions.
(3) Evaluation Report. Officers participating in the test shall wear the uniform
garment as specified and provide the Academy with evaluation reports.
Supervisors shall also provide an evaluation of the garment at regular intervals
as specified.
(4) Laboratory Tests. Laboratory tests are required for all uniform/equipment
items manufactured from materials not presently approved by the Department.
The tests shall be performed at the manufacturer’s expense and shall compare
the Department-approved material and the material submitted for evaluation.
Laboratory tests shall be performed by a laboratory acceptable to the
Department.
(5) Additional Tests. The Department reserves the right to perform additional
tests and/or extend the test period if deemed necessary.
11-5 HPM 73.5

HPM 73.5 11-6

ANNEX A
SAMPLE UNIFORM CHANGE PROPOSAL MEMORANDUM
11-7 HPM 73.5

HPM 73.5 11-8

CHAPTER 12
UNIFORM ALLOWANCE
REVISED JANUARY 2017
TABLE OF CONTENTS
UNIFORM ALLOWANCE ........................................................................................... 12-3

Legal Authority......................................................................................................... 12-3
Clothing Allowance .................................................................................................. 12-3
Definitions ................................................................................................................ 12-3
Requirements .......................................................................................................... 12-3
Eligibility................................................................................................................... 12-3
Payment Date and Procedures ............................................................................... 12-4
Uniform Allowance................................................................................................... 12-5
Uniform Accessories................................................................................................ 12-5
Reimbursement Procedure for Accessories ............................................................ 12-5
REPAIR OR REPLACEMENT OF DAMAGED UNIFORMS AND
PRIVATELY-OWNED SAFETY EQUIPMENT......................................................... 12-6
Damage to Uniforms and Privately-Owned Safety Equipment ................................ 12-6
Privately-Owned Safety Equipment ......................................................................... 12-6
Replacement Cost ................................................................................................... 12-7
PROCEDURE FOR REIMBURSEMENT FOR UNIFORMS AND
PRIVATELY-OWNED EQUIPMENT ....................................................................... 12-7
Review of Damaged Uniform or Equipment Item .................................................... 12-7
CHP 130, Claim for Reimbursement–Uniform or Equipment Damage .................... 12-7
Review of Claim by Commander ............................................................................. 12-7
Departmental Reviewing Officer .............................................................................. 12-7
Disposition of Damaged Uniform/Equipment Item ................................................... 12-7
Repair Invoices Required ........................................................................................ 12-8
Cleaning .................................................................................................................. 12-8
Amortization ............................................................................................................. 12-8
BOOT ALLOWANCE ................................................................................................. 12-8
ANNEXES
A – CHP 130, CLAIM FOR REIMBURSEMENT–UNIFORM OR

EQUIPMENT DAMAGE .................................................................................... 12-9
B – AMORTIZATION TABLE ................................................................................... 12-11
12-1 HPM 73.5

HPM 73.5 12-2

CHAPTER 12
UNIFORM ALLOWANCE
1. UNIFORM ALLOWANCE.
a. Legal Authority. The uniform allowance is authorized by Government Code

Sections 19850.1 through 19850.3 and administered under the provisions of Board
of Control Rules 897 through 897.8 and the Unit 5 Bargaining Agreement.
b. Clothing Allowance. Board of Control Rules 897 through 897.8 provide for an
allowance to state employees for the replacement of distinctive uniforms.
c. Definitions.
(1) “Uniform,” for the purpose of this chapter, includes outer garments,
excluding shoes, required to be worn exclusively while performing the duties
and responsibilities of the position and is different from the design or fashion of
the general population. This definition includes items that serve to identify the
person, agency, functions performed, rank, or time in service.
(2) “Replacement allowance” is defined as the amount established as the

annual cost of replacing uniform items.
d. Requirements. Employees must comply with the following requirements to

qualify for a uniform allowance:
(1) The uniform is clearly necessary for visual identification by the public for
law enforcement, public safety, or other closely related purposes.
(2) The employee must be required by the Commissioner to wear the uniform
for the regular full-time performance of duties.
(3) The uniform is authorized exclusively in an official capacity.
e. Eligibility.
(1) All uniformed employees who have completed one full year of employment
(including any probationary period) are eligible for the uniform replacement
allowance.
(2) Reduction Due to Sick Leave, Injury, or Military Leave. Uniformed

employees who are absent 30 or more consecutive calendar days due to sick
leave, injury time, or military leave will have their uniform allowance decreased
one month on a proportional basis for each full 30-day period. Vacation time in
12-3 HPM 73.5

lieu of sick leave shall be counted as normal sick leave for probation purposes,
if it is taken immediately following the expiration of Labor Code Section 4800
time or sick leave credits prior to resignation/retirement.
(3) Reduction Due to Suspension or Leaves of Absence. Uniformed

employees who are absent 11 or more days during a pay period due to
suspension or nonmilitary leaves of absence will have their uniform allowance
decreased one month on a proportional basis for each such pay period.
f. Payment Date and Procedures.
(1) Payment of uniform replacement allowances will be effective on the

uniform allowance anniversary date for those eligible uniformed employees
who have such date already established. For all other eligible uniformed
employees, the payment will be effective one year after their graduation from
the Academy.
(2) Established Uniform Allowance Anniversary (Eligibility) Dates.
(a) Uniformed employees hired after July 1, 1977, are eligible for their
uniform allowance on the anniversary of their graduation from the
Academy.
(b) Uniform allowance anniversary dates established prior to

July 1, 1982, may have been changed because of sick leave, Labor Code
Section 4800 time, military leave, or injury.
(3) Uniform Replacement Allowance Claims. Human Resources Section will

certify that all uniformed employees shown on the claim have served the
required time for eligibility for the allowance payments.
(4) Distribution of Uniform Allowance Payments. Warrants in payment of the

uniform allowance will normally be distributed by the tenth of the second month
after employees’ established uniform allowance anniversaries.
(5) Separations and Reinstatements.
(a) Uniformed employees who separate from the Department prior to their
uniform allowance anniversary date shall not receive their annual uniform
replacement allowance.
(b) Uniformed employees who are reinstated are generally eligible for the
uniform allowance one year after their reinstatement date. Exceptions may
be made to give credit for the number of months worked after the last
anniversary date and before separation. Only uniformed employees who
HPM 73.5 12-4

separate within three years prior to the date of the request will be eligible
for an exception. To request an exception, the uniformed employee shall
submit a memorandum to Fiscal Management Section (FMS) describing:
1 The circumstances of separation and reinstatement.
2 The original anniversary date.
3 The separation date.
g. Uniform Allowance. As determined by the Department, all uniformed

employees, regardless of rank, will receive an allowance in accordance with rates
described in the current Unit 5 Bargaining Agreement, Memorandum of
Understanding, or as determined by the Office of the Commissioner.
h. Uniform Accessories. Reimbursement for uniform accessories shall be made

to the appropriate uniformed employees during any one fiscal year (July 1 through
June 30) as follows:
(1) Officers.
(a) Four sets of shoulder patches.
(b) Four sets of service stripes.
(2) Sergeants.
(a) Four sets of shoulder patches.
(b) Four sets of service stripes.
(c) Four sets of cloth chevrons (upon promotion) and four sets of cloth
chevrons each fiscal year thereafter.
(3) Lieutenants, Captains, Assistant Chiefs, Chiefs.
(a) Two sets of metal insignia of rank (upon promotion).
(b) Four sets of shoulder patches.
(c) Four sets of service stripes.
(4) Cadets. Four sets of shoulder patches (upon graduation).
i. Reimbursement Procedure for Accessories. Submission for reimbursement

for specific uniform items shall be completed on the California Automated Travel
12-5 HPM 73.5

Expense Reimbursement System. Once signed in, select the “Expenses” tab.
Next, select the “Misc. Expenses” tab and click on “Business Expense – other.”
The amount claimed must be entered on the correct line and annotated in the
“Purpose” box. Click on the “Submission” tab to send the claim to the approver.
2. REPAIR OR REPLACEMENT OF DAMAGED UNIFORMS AND

PRIVATELY-OWNED SAFETY EQUIPMENT.
a. Damage to Uniforms and Privately-Owned Safety Equipment. Section 2259 of

the California Vehicle Code (CVC) requires the Department to reimburse members,
or their estate, for required uniform and equipment items which are damaged in the
line of duty.
(1) Reimbursement. Reimbursement shall be either payment for cost of

repairs or the actual cash value of items damaged beyond repair.
(2) Value. Value of items damaged beyond repair will be computed on the
actual value at the time damage occurred in accordance with the Amortization
Table contained in Annex B of this chapter.
b. Privately-Owned Safety Equipment. Except as noted in Highway Patrol

Manual (HPM) 11.2, Materials Management Manual, Chapter 10, Police Protective
and Safety Equipment-Uniformed Employees, uniformed employees may substitute
certain pieces of privately-owned equipment for state-issued safety equipment.
When permitted, the following regulations shall apply:
(1) Risk. Uniformed employees electing to continue to carry their own

personal equipment do so at their own expense and risk.
(2) Maintenance. The Department will not repair or maintain privately-owned

equipment except as provided for in Section 2259 CVC and HPM 11.2,
Chapter 10. Section 2259 CVC states: “The Department of the California
Highway Patrol shall pay to the member, or his estate, the cost of repairing the
uniforms and equipment of the member of the California Highway Patrol which
are damaged in the line of duty. If the uniforms or equipment are damaged
beyond repair, the department shall pay an amount equal to the actual value
thereof at the time the damage occurred, which shall be determined by the
commissioner. The term ‘equipment,’ as used in this section, shall include
equipment required by the department or personal accoutrements necessary
for the patrol member to perform his duty.”
(3) Negligence. The Department will not reimburse an employee for personal
property lost or damaged due to negligence.
HPM 73.5 12-6

c. Replacement Cost. When a uniformed employee elects to substitute
privately-owned equipment for a similar item or items available through state issue,
no more than the current replacement cost of the state-issued item or items will be
allowed when computing reimbursement for equipment destroyed.
(1) Expensive Personal Items. Uniform damage claims for expensive

personal items (e.g., watches, briefcases) are subject to reimbursement at an
amount less than the replacement cost.
(2) Claims. Claims for items not within the intent of Section 2259 CVC will not
be allowed.
3. PROCEDURE FOR REIMBURSEMENT FOR UNIFORMS AND

PRIVATELY-OWNED EQUIPMENT.
a. Review of Damaged Uniform or Equipment Item. Any damaged uniform or

equipment item for which a reimbursement claim will be submitted shall be
examined by the claimant’s supervisor prior to being cleaned, repaired, or replaced.
b. CHP 130, Claim for Reimbursement–Uniform or Equipment Damage.
(1) A CHP 130, Claim for Reimbursement–Uniform or Equipment Damage,

(Annex A of this chapter) shall be submitted in triplicate.
(2) Claimant shall enter all necessary information in the spaces provided.
The column titled “Amount Allowed” is for headquarters use and shall be left
blank.
c. Review of Claim by Commander. The immediate commander shall review and

either approve or disapprove the claim. If the claim is disapproved, the reason(s)
shall be stated on the back of the form.
(1) Original. The original and one copy shall be forwarded to FMS.
(2) Copy. The second copy shall be retained at the originating command.
d. Departmental Reviewing Officer. The FMS commander is the departmental

reviewing officer and shall review and either approve or disapprove the claim. If
the claim is disapproved, the claimant shall be informed.
e. Disposition of Damaged Uniform/Equipment Item. Whenever a uniform or

equipment item is surveyed as damaged beyond repair, the immediate commander
shall take custody of such article upon submission of a claim and shall hold it until
the claimant is reimbursed. The uniform/equipment item shall then be destroyed.
12-7 HPM 73.5

f. Repair Invoices Required. When an article is repaired or cleaned, the original
plus one copy of the invoice for costs of the service shall accompany the claim for
reimbursement. Uniform/equipment items repaired or cleaned shall be itemized
and the cost of each article listed on the invoice.
g. Cleaning. Uniform cleaning is a cost to be incurred by the employee and is not

reimbursable. However, the portion of cleaning associated with “special handling”
is subject to reimbursement if it meets the following criteria:
(1) The uniform was soiled or stained in a specific incident in the line of duty.
(2) The soiling or staining was not the fault of the employee.
(3) The uniform cannot be cleaned through the normal cleaning process but
must be cleaned by special handling at the cleaners.
h. Amortization. Amortization is computed as follows (refer to Annex B of this

chapter):
(1) Divide the replacement cost by the use life which determines the monthly
rate. “Use life” is defined as duration of time over which an item of property
decreases in value due to wear, age, or other cause.
(2) Multiply the monthly rate by the number of months used in service.
NOTE: Months used in service does not necessarily equate to months of

ownership. For example, if four shirts are rotated for one year, then months
used in service are three for each shirt (i.e., 12 months/4 shirts = 3 months/1
shirt).
(3) Subtract results obtained in Step (2) from the replacement cost.
4. BOOT ALLOWANCE. Refer to the Unit 5 Bargaining Agreement for information

regarding boot allowance.
HPM 73.5 12-8

ANNEX A
CHP 130, CLAIM FOR REIMBURSEMENT–UNIFORM OR EQUIPMENT DAMAGE
12-9 HPM 73.5

HPM 73.5 12-10

ANNEX B
AMORTIZATION TABLE
ITEMS USE LIFE

Aiguillette (shoulder cord) 60 months
Attache Case (up to $65.00 with receipt) 60 months
Baton Ring (state’s cost) Indefinite
Belt Loops, Keepers 90 months
Belt, Velcro Indefinite
Boots (Motorcycle: up to $255.00 with receipt)
(Flight: up to $100.00 with receipt) 36 months
Campaign Hat
(1) Felt 60 months
(2) Straw 24 months
Cap
(1) Chief and above 24 months
(2) Baseball Cap Indefinite
(3) Cold Weather Cap Indefinite
Citation Book Holder 48 months
Clipboard (state’s cost) Indefinite
Cold Weather Jumpsuit Indefinite
Dickey 12 months
Duty Belt 144 months
Flashlight (state’s cost) 48 months
Glasses
(1) Nonprescription Sunglasses Indefinite
(replacement or repair costs up to $35.00 with a
receipt)
(2) Prescription, Clear or Sunglasses Indefinite
(replacement or repair costs up to $120.00 with
a receipt)
12-11 HPM 73.5

ANNEX B
AMORTIZATION TABLE (continued)
ITEMS USE LIFE

Gloves 36 months
Goggles (motorcycle only) 60 months
Handcuffs (actual cost up to $15.00) Indefinite
Handcuffs Case 144 months
Holster 144 months
Jacket
(1) Black leather 90 months
(2) Blue, patrol (regular/modified) 48 months
(3) Call-Out Indefinite
(4) Dress, green 30 months
(5) Cold Weather Parka Indefinite
Key Strap ∗ Indefinite
Magazine Pouch (state’s cost) 144 months
Pen (state’s cost) Indefinite
Posse Box ∗ Indefinite
Radio, Holster Use life
Rainwear (state’s cost) 60 months
Scarf 12 months
Secondary Weapon (actual cost up to Indefinite
$105.00)
Shirt
(1) Synthetic, long- and short-sleeve 6 months
(2) Wool gabardine, long-sleeve 12 months
(3) Turtleneck Indefinite
Shoes/Boots 36 months
HPM 73.5 12-12

ANNEX B
AMORTIZATION TABLE (continued)
ITEMS USE LIFE

Tape Measure and Holder (state’s cost) 60 months
Templates ∗ Indefinite
Tie Bar or Tack 60 months
Tie, Bow Tie 6 months
Trousers/Breeches 6 months
Underwear, Thermal 24 months
Utility Uniform, Two-Piece Ripstop 6 months
Vest Carrier 60 months
Watch (actual cost up to $100.00 with a receipt) Indefinite
Watch Band (actual cost up to $12.00) Indefinite
∗ Actual cost up to the amount stated in the Academy Recreation Fund Catalog.
12-13 HPM 73.5

HPM 73.5 12-14

CHAPTER 13
STORAGE OF DEPARTMENT-ISSUED EQUIPMENT DURING MILITARY

ACTIVATION OF UNIFORMED EMPLOYEES
MARCH 2015
TABLE OF CONTENTS
PURPOSE.................................................................................................................. 13-3
POLICY ...................................................................................................................... 13-3
13-1 HPM 73.5

HPM 73.5 13-2

CHAPTER 13
STORAGE OF DEPARTMENT-ISSUED EQUIPMENT DURING MILITARY

ACTIVATION OF UNIFORMED EMPLOYEES
1. PURPOSE.
a. The purpose of this chapter is to provide policy for securing and storing
equipment issued by the Department to uniformed employees who receive orders
to report for military duty that will exceed 90 days.
2. POLICY.
a. In the event a uniformed employee is ordered to military duty exceeding 90

days, the commander shall ensure all of the employee’s Department-issued
equipment is accounted for and stored securely at their command.
The Department-issued equipment to be accounted for and stored shall include:
(1) Primary weapon (Smith & Wesson [S&W] 4006 TSW)/ with fully-loaded
magazine.
(2) Duty belt complete with double-magazine pouch, two fully-loaded

magazines, handcuff case, holster, and side handle baton ring.
(3) Soft body armor.
(4) Side handle baton.
(5) Handcuffs and key.
(6) Flashlight and charger.
(7) Aerosol projector holster.
(8) Aerosol subject restraint spray.
(9) Portable radio extender and holster.
(10) Laptop computer.
(11) Weapons of Mass Destruction bag and contents (gas mask, filters,
protective suit, helmet, etc.).
13-3 HPM 73.5

(12) Rain gear (jacket, pants, and boots).
(13) Any other Department-issued equipment that may have been issued for a
specialized position (e.g., supplemental weapon [S&W 4013] with three
fully-loaded magazines, cellular telephone, surveillance equipment, mobile
field force equipment).
b. Upon the employee’s return from military duty, the commander shall:
(1) Ensure the Department-issued equipment is in serviceable condition; and
(2) Ensure the Department-issued equipment is returned to the employee.
HPM 73.5 13-4

State of California Transportation Agency
Memorandum
Date: December 16, 2021
To: All Commands
From: DEPARTMENT OF CALIFORNIA HIGHWAY PATROL
File No.: 001.13187.15702.091.HPM 73.5 CH 6 - Ball Cap - Memo
Subject: HIGHWAY PATROL MANUAL 73.5, UNIFORM/GROOMING AND

EQUIPMENT STANDARDS, CHAPTER 6, REGULATIONS FOR
OPTIONAL UNIFORM ITEMS, REVISION #30
Highway Patrol Manual 73.5, Uniform/Grooming and Equipment Standards, Chapter 6,

Regulations for Optional Uniform Items, has been revised to add policy concerning the
wearing of the cotton blue utility (baseball) cap by the Department’s motorcycle officers.
Questions regarding the revision should be directed to the Academy, Administrative

Services Unit, at (916) 309-6300.
OPI: 091

CHP 51 (Rev. 06/2013) OPI 076
Memorandum
Date: November 10, 2021
To: All Commands
File No.: 001.13187.15702.091.HPM 73.5 CH 11 Memo

EQUIPMENT STANDARDS, CHAPTER 11, UNIFORM COMMITTEE,
REVISION #29
Uniform Committee, has been revised to update the list of ex-officio members. The
Office of Risk Management, Occupational Safety Unit, has replaced the Office of
Employee Safety and Assistance, Occupational Safety Unit.

OPI: 091

CHP 51 (Rev. 06/2013) OPI 076
Memorandum
Date: June 3, 2021
To: All Commands

EQUIPMENT STANDARDS, CHAPTER 3, GROOMING
REQUIREMENTS, REVISION #28

Grooming Requirements, has been revised to update policy concerning natural and
other hairstyles to be worn by employees, in accordance with departmental policy. The
policy contained in this revision is necessary for compliance with California Government
Code Section 12926, as amended by Senate Bill 188 (Mitchell, Chapter 58, Statutes of
2019). This revision also includes removal of gender-specific language, the addition of
guidelines for the wearing of a necklace, and updated instructions for the care and
cleaning of uniform garments.

OPI: 091

CHP 51 (Rev. 06/2013) OPI 076
Memorandum
Date: March 10, 2021
To: All Commands


Regulations for Optional Uniform Items, has been revised to update policy concerning
the wearing of the blue utility (baseball) cap.

OPI: 091

CHP 51 (Rev. 06/2013) OPI 076
Memorandum
Date: May 7, 2019
To: All Commands
File No.: 001.10377.15066.091.HPM 73.5 Memo

EQUIPMENT STANDARDS, REVISION #26
Highway Patrol Manual 73.5, Uniform/Grooming & Equipment Standards, Cover, Title
Page, Foreword, and Table of Contents; Chapter 2, General Requirements; Chapter 4,
Soft Body Armor; Chapter 8, Wearing of the Uniform–Program of Entertainment;
Chapter 9, Nonuniformed Employee Dress and Grooming Standards; and Chapter 10,
Uniform and Equipment Inspection, have been revised to comply with current formatting
policy contained in Highway Patrol Manual 1.1, Publications Management Manual. In
addition, Annex A in Chapter 4 has been deleted as its contents are obsolete.

OPI: 091

CHP 51 (Rev. 06/2013) OPI 076
Memorandum
Date: December 14, 2018
To: All Commands
File No.: 001.10377.15066.091.HPM 73.5 CHs 4 & 5 Trans Memo

EQUIPMENT STANDARDS, CHAPTER 4, SOFT BODY ARMOR; AND
CHAPTER 5, REGULATIONS FOR REQUIRED UNIFORM ITEMS,
REVISION #25
Highway Patrol Manual (HPM) 73.5, Uniform/Grooming and Equipment Standards,

Chapter 4, Soft Body Armor; and Chapter 5, Regulations for Required Uniform Items,
has been revised.
This revision to HPM 73.5, Chapter 4, updates policy on replacement procedures for
soft body armor and updates formatting to comply with current policy contained in HPM
1.1, Publications Management Manual. The revision to HPM 73.5, Chapter 5, includes
new photographs and policy regarding the placement of insignia of rank on the blue
patrol jacket and the blue patrol jacket inner shell when worn as an outer garment.
Questions regarding this revision should be directed to the Academy, Administrative

OPI: 091

CHP 51 (Rev. 06/2013) OPI 076
Memorandum
Date: October 8, 2018
To: All Commands
File No.: 001.10377.15066.091.HPM 73.5 CH 6 Trans Memo


Regulations for Optional Uniform Items, has been revised. This revision incorporates
new policy regarding the tourniquet carrying case, and approval for managers to wear
embroidered insignia of rank on cold weather uniforms.

OPI: 091

CHP 51 (Rev. 06/2013) OPI 076
Memorandum
Date: May 7, 2018
To: All Commands

EQUIPMENT STANDARDS MANUAL, CHAPTER 6, REGULATIONS
FOR OPTIONAL UNIFORM ITEMS, REVISION #23
Highway Patrol Manual 73.5, Uniform/Grooming and Equipment Standards Manual,

Chapter 6, Regulations for Optional Uniform Items, has been revised.
This revision adds the blue utility baseball cap as an approved optional uniform item for
wear by canine officers and personnel assigned to Multidisciplinary Accident
Investigation Teams.

OPI: 091

CHP 51 (Rev. 06/2013) OPI 076
Memorandum
Date: April 9, 2018
To: All Commands
File No.: 1.10377.20467.HPM 73.5 CH 6 Trans Memo

This revision of Highway Patrol Manual 73.5, Uniform/Grooming and Equipment

Standards Manual, Chapter 6, Regulations for Optional Uniform Items, incorporates the
required uniform items when performing the duties as a bagpiper at funerals and
memorials. Uniformed personnel shall obtain their Division commander’s approval prior
to representing the Department as a bagpiper.

OPI: 091

CHP 51 (Rev. 06/2013) OPI 076
Memorandum
Date: January 17, 2018
To: All Commands

FOR SPECIALIZED UNIFORM ITEMS, REVISION #21

Chapter 7, Regulations for Specialized Uniform Items, has been revised.
This revision incorporates updated policy regarding the departmentally approved

standardized uniform for uniformed employees assigned to a Bicycle Patrol Unit, while
performing bicycle patrol duties. The revision also includes minor grammatical
changes.

OPI: 091

CHP 51 (Rev. 06/2013) OPI 076
Memorandum
To: All Commands


Regulations for Optional Uniform Items, has been revised.
This revision incorporates policy contained in Management Memorandum 17-034,

External Rifle Rated Body Armor and Carrier. This policy concerns the approved
purchase, at personal expense, and the wearing of the external rifle rated body armor
(ERRBA) and carrier. Concurrently, Highway Patrol Guide 73.6, Uniform and
Equipment Specifications Guide, will be revised to include the specifications for the
ERRBA and carrier. Prior to being carried in the field, each ERRBA and carrier shall be
inspected by a supervisor to confirm the specifications are met.

OPI: 091

CHP 51 (Rev. 06/2013) OPI 076
Memorandum
To: All Commands

FOR REQUIRED UNIFORM ITEMS, REVISION #19

Chapter 5, Regulations for Required Uniform Items, has been revised.
This revision includes new policy which provides uniformed employees the option of
wearing embroidered rank insignia, gold-colored bar(s), or star(s) pins on the utility
uniform; additional direction regarding the wearing of the tribute of mourning ribbon; and
the wearing of the blue patrol jacket inner shell when worn as an outer shell. In
addition, new color photographs have been added and general language has been
updated throughout the chapter.

OFFICE OF THE COMMISSIONER ATTACHMENT
OPI: 091

CHP 51 (Rev. 06/2013) OPI 076
Memorandum
Date: April 27, 2017
To: All Commands


Regulations for Optional Uniform Items, has been revised to incorporate specifications
and photographs of the new call-out jacket.

OPI: 091

CHP 51 (Rev. 06/2013) OPI 076
Memorandum
To: All Commands

EQUIPMENT STANDARDS MANUAL, CHAPTER 3, GROOMING
REQUIREMENTS, REVISION #17
Highway Patrol Manual (HPM) 73.5, Uniform/Grooming and Equipment Standards

Manual, Chapter 3, Grooming Requirements, has been revised. This revision adds
language to existing departmental policy on body art for uniformed employees and
cadets.

OPI: 091

CHP 51 (Rev. 06/2013) OPI 076
Memorandum
Date: February 10, 2017
To: All Commands


Manual, Chapter 6, Regulations for Optional Uniform Items, has been revised to
incorporate new policy regarding the Tactical Flight Vest (TFV). The TFV has been
added to the list of optional uniform and equipment items. The holster-equipped vest is
available for wear exclusively by uniformed employees assigned to the Air Operations
Program, and shall only be worn with the Nomex® flight suit.

OPI: 091

CHP 51 (Rev. 06/2013) OPI 076
Memorandum
To: All Commands

EQUIPMENT STANDARDS MANUAL, CHAPTER 11, UNIFORM
COMMITTEE, REVISION #15

Chapter 11, Uniform Committee, has been revised. This revision provides additional
direction regarding the process for submitting uniform change proposals.

OPI: 091

CHP 51 (Rev. 06/2013) OPI 076
Memorandum
To: All Commands

EQUIPMENT STANDARDS MANUAL, CHAPTER 12, UNIFORM
ALLOWANCE, REVISION #14

Manual, Chapter 12, Uniform Allowance, has been revised. This revision updates the
procedure for submitting reimbursement requests for uniform accessories. Effective
immediately, requests for reimbursement for uniform accessories shall be submitted on
the California Automated Travel Expense Reimbursement System. Reference to the
CHP 262, Travel Expense Claim, has been removed.

OPI: 091

CHP 51 (Rev. 06/2013) OPI 076
Memorandum
Date: May 27, 2016
To: All Commands
File No.: 001.9486.13819.091.HPM 73.5 CHs 2 & 6 Memo

EQUIPMENT STANDARDS MANUAL, CHAPTER 2, GENERAL
REQUIREMENTS, AND CHAPTER 6, REGULATIONS FOR OPTIONAL
UNIFORM ITEMS, REVISION #13

Chapter 2, General Requirements, and Chapter 6, Regulations for Optional Uniform
Items, have been revised.
The revision to Chapter 2 updates departmental policy regarding visible undergarments

worn with the cold weather uniform. The revision to Chapter 6 includes policy and
specifications for the wearing of the Drug Recognition Expert/Drug Recognition Expert
Instructor pin and the United States military flag pin.

OPI: 091

CHP 51 (Rev. 06/2013) OPI 076
Memorandum
To: All Commands

EQUIPMENT STANDARDS MANUAL, CHAPTER 13, STORAGE OF
DEPARTMENT-ISSUED EQUIPMENT DURING MILITARY ACTIVATION
OF UNIFORMED EMPLOYEES, REVISION #12

Manual, has been revised.
This revision of HPM 73.5 adds Chapter 13, Storage of Department-Issued Equipment
During Military Activation of Uniformed Employees. Chapter 13 provides policy for
securing and storing state equipment issued by the Department to uniformed
employees who receive orders to report for military duty that will exceed 90 days.

OPI: 091

CHP 51 (Rev. 06/2013) OPI 076
Memorandum
Date: March 3, 2015
To: HOLDERS OF HPM 73.5, UNIFORM/GROOMING AND EQUIPMENT

STANDARDS
File No.: 01.9486.A15230.091.Hpm 73.5 Ch. 1 & 7 Trans Memo

EQUIPMENT STANDARDS, CHAPTER 1, UNIFORM POLICY, AND
CHAPTER 7, REGULATIONS FOR SPECIALIZED UNIFORM ITEMS,
REVISION #11

Chapter 1, Uniform Policy, and Chapter 7, Regulations for Specialized Uniform Items,
have been revised.
The revision of HPM 73.5, Chapter 1, designates Mobile Field Force (MFF) and MFF
Type 1 Special Response Team (SRT) members as incidental wearers of the utility
uniform and specifies optional protective apparel and equipment for use by SRT
members. In addition, Annex F, Special Response Team Uniform, lists additional
approved uniform items that may be worn by the SRT.
The revision of HPM 73.5, Chapter 7, provides specifications for the Special Response
Team nameplate.
Questions regarding these revisions should be directed to the Academy, Administrative

OPI: 091

CHP 51 (Rev. 06/2013) OPI 076
Memorandum
To: HOLDERS OF HPM 73.5, UNIFORM/GROOMING AND EQUIPMENT

STANDARDS
File No.: 001.9486.14925.19684.091.HPM 73.5 CH 6 Trans Memo


Chapter 6, Regulations for Optional Uniform Items, has been revised.
This revision of HPM 73.5, Chapter 6, adds language concerning the Department’s
policy on the appropriate use of the Investigator Rapid Deployment Vest (IRDV). This
revision to Chapter 6 also includes the addition of IRDV specifications to Annex A.

OPI: 091

CHP 51 (Rev. 06/2013) OPI 076
State of California Business, Transportation and Housing Agency
Memorandum
Date: July 11, 2013
To: Holders of Highway Patrol Manual 73.5, Uniform/Grooming and Equipment

Standards

Academy
File No.: 001.11767.A15594.091.Cover Transmittal Memo

EQUIPMENT STANDARDS REVISION #9
Attached is a revision to Highway Patrol Manual 73.5, Uniform/Grooming and Equipment

Standards, Chapter 7, Regulations for Specialized Uniform Items. This chapter has been revised
to reflect policy change on airplane crew members' uniform equipment and accouterments.
Any questions regarding this revision should be directed to the Academy, Administrative
REMOVE INSERT REVISION
Chapter 7 Chapter 7
OPI: 091

CHP 51 (Rev. 03-11) OPI 076
Memorandum
Date: September 13, 2012
To: Holders of Highway Patrol Manual 73.5, Uniform/Grooming and Equipment

Standards

Academy

EQUIPMENT STANDARDS REVISION #8
Attached is a revision to Highway Patrol Manual 73.5, Uniform/Grooming and Equipment

Standards, Chapter 10, Uniform and Equipment Inspection. This chapter has been revised to
specify how often a uniform inspection must be done at an Area office and how it is to be
properly documented.
Any questions regarding this revision should be directed to the Academy, Administrative
Chapter 10 Chapter 10
OPI: 091

CHP 51 (Rev. 03-11) OPI 076
Memorandum
Date: September 20, 2011
To: Holders of HPM 73.5, Uniform/Grooming and Equipment Standards
Subject: HPM 73.5, UNIFORM/GROOMING AND EQUIPMENT STANDARDS,

COMPLETE REVISION
Attached is the complete revision to Highway Patrol Manual 73.5, Uniform/Grooming and
Equipment Standards. Various chapters have been revised to incorporate numerous changes to
uniform policy.
Any questions regarding this revision should be directed to the Office of the Academy,
Administrative Services Unit, at (916) 376-3200.
OPI: 091

CHP 51 (Rev. 03-11) OPI 076
Memorandum
To: Holders of HPM 73.5 (Uniform/Grooming and Equipment Standards Manual)
File No.: 001.17116.A13294.091.TransmittalMemo
Subject: COMPLETE REVISION OF HPM 73.5
HPM 73.5, Uniform/Grooming and Equipment Standards Manual, has been revised to update
policy requested by Executive Management.
Chapter 1 Amends policy to include a dark navy blue mock turtleneck and mock
dickey as neckwear options in lieu of the turtleneck and dickey with the
CHP logo. The turtleneck and dickey with CHP logo are authorized for
wear until no longer serviceable. Authorizes a dark navy blue under-
garment shirt for wear with the blue utility uniform. Eliminates the option
of wearing a white undergarment shirt while wearing the blue utility
uniform. Adds policy requiring the newly developed departmental cloth
badge to be worn on the blue utility uniform in lieu of the departmental
badge. Requires uniformed employees to possess and maintain, ready for
immediate use, a complete and properly fitting long-sleeve utility uniform.
Chapter 1, Annex A Incorporates the departmental cloth badge into the list of required uniform
equipment items while wearing the blue utility uniform.
Chapter 1, Annex C Amends work uniform neckwear options to include the mock turtleneck
and mock dickey.
Chapter 1, Annex D Amends utility uniform neckwear options to include the mock turtleneck
and mock dickey. Requires visible undergarments to be dark navy blue
while wearing the blue utility uniform.
Chapter 1, Annex E Amends cold weather uniform neckwear options to include the mock
turtleneck and mock dickey.
Chapter 2 Outlines the general requirements of the mock turtleneck and visible
undergarments. Amends visible undergarment policy to include the
wearing of a dark navy blue undergarment with the blue utility uniform
Safety, Service, and Security

CHP 51WP (Rev. 11-86) OPI 076
Holders of HPM 73.5 (Uniform/Grooming and Equipment Standards Manual)
Page 2
and a white undergarment with the tan work uniform. Requires cadets
graduating from the Academy to possess and maintain one complete set of
long-sleeve utility uniforms. Incorporates policy contained in
Management Memorandum 07-014 relative to departmental uniform
requirements.
Chapter 3 Incorporates policy contained in Management Memorandum 06-005

regarding body art.
Chapter 4 Adds policy for the wearing of the navy blue soft body armor carrier.
Amends procedures for replacing soft body armor as well as requires
state-issued soft body armor to be replaced within five years from the date
of manufacture. Amends policy regarding the care of soft body armor
relative to following manufacturer’s instructions.
Chapter 4, Annex B Acceptable soft body armor brands list eliminated. State-purchased soft
body armor is subject to bid and contract specifications.
Chapter 5 Provides regulations for the departmental cloth badge, executive green
dress jacket, and rank boards for the executive green dress jacket. Updates
the classification of Deputy Chief to Chief. The utility uniform
regulations have been moved from the optional uniform items located in
Chapter 6 to the required uniform items described in Chapter 5.
Chapter 5, Annex A Provides general descriptions for the departmental cloth badge, executive
green dress jacket, and rank boards for the executive green dress jacket.
Moves the general description of the utility uniform from Chapter 6,
Annex A to Chapter 5, Annex A.
Chapter 6 Provides regulations for the mock turtleneck, mock dickey, U.S. flag pin,
and the dark navy blue undergarment shirt. Utility uniform regulations
have also been moved to Chapter 5.
Chapter 6, Annex A Provides general descriptions for the mock turtleneck, mock dickey, U.S.
flag pin, dark navy blue undergarment shirt, and verbiage to clearly state
that keepers shall be equipped with brass snaps. The description for the
required utility uniform has been moved to Chapter 5, Annex A.
Chapter 11 Updates the classification of Deputy Chief to Chief and changes the
chairperson responsibility to reflect designation by the Commissioner.
Adds a representative from the Occupational Safety Unit as an ex-officio
member to the Uniform Committee. Other minor content changes have
also been made.
Holders of HPM 73.5 (Uniform/Grooming and Equipment Standards Manual)
Page 3
Chapter 12 Incorporates policy contained in Management Memorandum 07-014

relative to departmental uniform reimbursement. Corrects Amortization
Table reference from Annex A to Annex B.
OPI: 091
DISTRIBUTION: S(Holders of HPM 73.5)
Memorandum
Date: May 10, 2006
To: Holders of HPM 73.5 (Uniform/Grooming and Equipment Standards Manual)
File No.: 1.14925.A9237.091.TransmittalMemo
Subject: HPM 73.5, REVISION #5
HPM 73.5, Uniform/Grooming and Equipment Standards Manual, has been revised in order to
update policy requested by Executive Management.
Chapter 4 Changes reporting procedures for soft body armor incidents.
Chapter 5 Amends policy to require the wearing of the primary weapon by

uniformed employees while in uniform.
Chapter 6 Allows cellular phones and personal digital assistants (PDAs) to be worn
while in uniform.
Adds the requirement to wear the primary weapon on the optional brass
buckle trouser belt while in uniform.
Chapter 6, Annex A Incorporates two additional Armament System Procedures (ASP) batons
and three additional ASP holders as optional items.
Chapter 7 Incorporates policy contained in Management Memorandum

05-003 to cease the wearing of religious insignia by the departmental
Chaplain and Associate Chaplain.
Deletes reference to the Special Teams Identification Vest (STIV). Field

Support Section no longer issues the STIV.
Chapter 11 Adds a Public Safety Dispatcher as a member of the Uniform Committee.
Safety, Service, and Security

CHP 51WP (Rev. 11-86) OPI 076
Holders of HPM 73.5
Page 2
Main Table of Contents, pages v Main Table of Content, pages v

through xii through xii
Chapter 4, Table of Contents

Page 4-5 Page 4-5

Pages 5-7 through 5-10 Pages 5-7 through 5-10

Page 6-9 Page 6-9
Annex 6-A-9 and 6-A-10 Annex 6-A-9 and 6-A-10

Page 7-3 through 7-5 Pages 7-3 and 7-4
Annex 7-A-1 through 7-A-6 Annex 7-A-1 through 7-A-6

Pages 11-1 and 11-2 Pages 11-1 and 11-2
OPI: 091
Memorandum
To: Holders of HPM 73.5 (Uniform/Grooming and Standards Manual)
File No.: 1.15662.exthold
Subject: HPM 73.5, REVISION #4
HPM 73.5, Uniform/Grooming and Equipment Standards Manual, has been revised in order to
incorporate the provisions of Management Memorandum #04-001 concerning the policy
developed for the new radio extender holster which has been made available to all uniformed
employees of the California Highway Patrol. Further, the extender holster policy has been
moved from HPM 73.5, Chapter 6, Regulations for Optional Uniform Items, to Chapter 5,
Regulations for Required Uniform Items.
v through viii v through viii

5-17 5-17
5-A-25 5-A-25
6-5 through 6-9 6-5 through 6-9
6-A-7 through 6-A-14 6-A-7 through 6-A-14
6-A-19 & 6-A-20 6-A-19 & 6-A-20
OPI: 091
CHP 51WP (Rev. 11-86) OPI 076

HPM 73.5

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HPM 73.5

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California

This publication contains material exempt from public

Safety, Service, and Security An Internationally Accredited Agency

UNIFORM/GROOMING AND EQUIPMENT STANDARDS

THIS PUBLICATION MAY BE PURCHASED FROM THE

REVISED SEPTEMBER 2011

LIBRARY DISTRIBUTION ACT

This manual is the primary departmental publication on matters relating to uniforms. It

Other information and procedures on the subject of uniforms, formerly contained in

The intent of this manual is to ensure uniformity in appearance of departmental

OFFICE OF THE COMMISSIONER

HIGHWAY PATROL MANUAL 73.5, UNIFORM/GROOMING AND EQUIPMENT

CHAPTER 1 UNIFORM POLICY ............................................................................ 091

CHAPTER 2 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS ............................................................ 091

CHAPTER 3 GROOMING REQUIREMENTS ......................................................... 091

CHAPTER 4 SOFT BODY ARMOR ........................................................................ 091

CHAPTER 5 REGULATIONS FOR REQUIRED UNIFORM ITEMS ....................... 091

CHAPTER 6 REGULATIONS FOR OPTIONAL UNIFORM ITEMS ........................ 091

CHAPTER 7 REGULATIONS FOR SPECIALIZED UNIFORM ITEMS ................... 091

CHAPTER 8 WEARING OF THE UNIFORM–PROGRAM

CHAPTER 9 NONUNIFORMED EMPLOYEE DRESS AND

CHAPTER 10 UNIFORM AND EQUIPMENT INSPECTION.................................... 091

CHAPTER 11 UNIFORM COMMITTEE ................................................................... 091

CHAPTER 12 UNIFORM ALLOWANCE .................................................................. 091

CHAPTER 13 STORAGE OF DEPARTMENT-ISSUED EQUIPMENT DURING

REVISED MARCH 2015

AUTHORIZED UNIFORMS .......................................................................................... 1-3

A - REQUIRED ITEMS ............................................................................................... 1-13

1-1 HPM 73.5

HPM 73.5 1-2

a. General. To achieve the professional image expected of members of this

(a) Formal Uniform;

(b) Work Uniform;

(c) Utility Uniform; and

(d) Cold Weather Uniform.

(2) Each type of authorized uniform shall include the appropriate

(3) The wearing of uniform items, accouterments, or equipment not authorized

(4) All uniforms shall conform to the specifications contained in Highway

2. TYPES OF AUTHORIZED UNIFORMS.

(1) Formal Uniform Required. All uniformed employees, regardless of rank or

1-3 HPM 73.5

(3) Policy for Wearing.

(3) Uniform Shirt. Except as provided in paragraph 2.b.(2) above, employees

HPM 73.5 1-4

(e) The mock turtleneck or dickey may be worn under the

(1) Utility Uniform Required. All uniformed employees, regardless of rank or

1-5 HPM 73.5

(a) Primary Wearers.

1 Definition. Primary wearers are those persons assigned on a

2 Policy for Wearing. Primary wearers are authorized to wear the

3 Approved Primary Wearers.

a Uniformed personnel assigned to the Commercial Program

b Level 1 or 2 trained commercial officers, driving Specially

c Personnel permanently assigned to the Canine Program

d Bomb detection officers who are canine-equipped

e Full-time vehicle identification number (VIN) officers

f Division personnel permanently assigned to Multidisciplinary

g Multidisciplinary Accident Investigation Teams’ associate

(b) Incidental Wearers.

1 Definition. Incidental wearers are those persons who are

2 Policy for Wearing. Incidental wearers are authorized to wear

3 Approved Incidental Wearers.

HPM 73.5 1-6