Short answer. For police matters that are not an emergency in Washington, District of Columbia, call the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) non-emergency line at 3-1-1 1. If a life, a person or property is in danger right now, call 911 2.
Who to call in Washington
| Situation | Number | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Emergency: police, fire, ambulance | 911 | 2 |
| Police, non-emergency (Metropolitan Police Department (MPD)) | 3-1-1 | 1 |
| Report a crime online | Official online reporting | 3 |
| Mental health or suicide crisis | 988 (call, text or chat) | 4 |
| Poisoning | 1-800-222-1222 | 5 |
What does the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) say?
"...want to contact the police for a non-emergency 3-1-1" 1
When should you use the non-emergency line?
The official page lists these examples 3:
- "Lost property"
- "Lost vehicle tags"
Who answers the call?
In Washington, police calls that are not emergencies go to the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) 1.
Other cities
All cities: Police non-emergency numbers by city. Every national number: Emergency numbers in the United States.
Frequently asked questions
What is the non-emergency number for police in Washington?
3-1-1, the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) non-emergency line 1.
Is 3-1-1 the same as 911?
No. 911 is for emergencies 2; 3-1-1 is the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) line for matters that are not urgent 1.
Can I report a crime online in Washington?
Yes, for some non-urgent incidents: the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) has an official online reporting page 3.
Sources · 5
- Metropolitan Police Department (DC) · Who Do I Call? | mpdc checked 2026-11-05
- Federal Communications Commission · Text to 911: What You Need to Know checked 2026-10-20
- Metropolitan Police Department (DC) · File a Police Report | mpdc checked 2026-11-05
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline · 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline checked 2026-11-05
- MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine · Poison control center - emergency number checked 2026-11-05