New York City Police Department – Headquarters – New York, NY

One Police Plaza (1PP) – NYPD Headquarters

One Police Plaza, located in the Civic Center of Lower Manhattan, serves as the headquarters for the New York City Police Department (NYPD). This brutalist-style building houses the office of the Police Commissioner, the Chief of Department, and major administrative bureaus including the Detective Bureau, Intelligence Bureau, and Deputy Commissioner of Public Information. While it is the nerve center for the largest police force in the United States, it is primarily an administrative facility rather than a patrol precinct. Public access is strictly controlled, but specific public services such as the Criminal Records Section (for Certificates of Conduct/Good Conduct) are located here (or in the adjacent annex).

Public Records Services

For most members of the public, a visit to 1 Police Plaza is for obtaining official records:

• Certificate of Conduct: Often required for employment, adoption, or visa applications (Available at the Public Inquiry Window).
• Verification of Crime Reports: Obtaining copies of reports for insurance or legal purposes.
• Pistol Licensing Division: (Note: While HQ is here, the License Division has specific intake locations; check current guidance as 1PP access is limited).

Security and Access

Security at One Police Plaza is extremely tight. The building is surrounded by security bollards and checkpoints. Visitors must have an appointment or a specific purpose (like visiting the Records Section) to enter. Valid government ID is strictly required. Visitors will pass through metal detectors and x-ray screening. It is located near the Brooklyn Bridge and City Hall.