All Of Gibbs’ Rules In NCIS (& What They Mean)

Understanding all of Gibbs’ rules in NCIS and what they mean is essential to knowing Leroy Jethro Gibbs. Mark Harmon played the character for nearly two decades on the series, using the rules to help establish his character and how the Naval Criminal Investigative Service operated. Gibbs’ rules kick off the series in NCIS season 1, episode 1, “Yankee White,” one of the best episodes of NCIS. The Special Agent-in-Charge uses them to give Sasha Alexander’s newly minted Caitlin “Kate” Todd the lay of the land when investigating aboard Air Force One.

Gibbs’ rules were necessary for the original Major Case Response Team leader in NCIS. The rules were the quickest way for Gibbs to relay critical information in the shortest time. While many of Gibbs’ rules dictate crime scene management, later rules feel more personal. In NCIS season 3, Gibbs said he had about 50 rules, but more of Gibbs’ rules were revealed until Mark Harmon exited NCIS in season 19. The list expanded into about 100 rules, but it must be completed. Some of Gibbs’ rules still need to be discovered since Gibbs didn’t divulge his code chronologically.