The Fullerton Police Department Ride-Along Program was designed to give citizens an opportunity to experience firsthand, what it is like to be a Police Officer. Participants get the opportunity to ride in a police car, along with an Officer and experience what they see on a daily basis in Fullerton.

Who is Eligible?

The Fullerton Police Department Ride-along program is available to residents, students and those employed within the City of Fullerton. Every attempt will be made to accommodate interested persons; however, any applicant may be disqualified without cause. The following factors may be considered in disqualifying an applicant and are not limited to:

• Under the age of 15
• Prior criminal history.
• Pending criminal action.
• Pending lawsuit against the City of Fullerton.
• Denial by any supervisor.

When Can Participants Ride?

The Ride-Along Program is available on most days of the week, with certain exceptions established by the Community Services Bureau. The Ride-along times are generally from 10 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. (3 hours) or from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. (3 hours) Exceptions to this schedule may be made as approved by the Chief of Police, Division Commander, Watch Commander, or Community Services Bureau Manager.

How Do I Request a Ride-Along?

Ride-along requests will be scheduled by a member of the Community Services Bureau. The participant shall complete a ride-along waiver form. Information requested will include:

• A valid ID or California Driver's License,
• A current address, and
• A valid phone number.
• If the participant is under 18 years of age, a parent/guardian must be present to complete the Ride-Along form.

Where Do I Go to Schedule a Ride-Along?

Those interested in participating in the Ride-along program should contact the Fullerton Police Department Community Services Bureau in person to complete the Ride-along form. The address of the Fullerton Police Department is: 237 W. Commonwealth Avenue, Fullerton, CA 92832. You may also call (714) 738-6838 for more information.

Ride-alongs will be scheduled, based on availability, at least one week after the date of application and applicants will be subject to a background check, to determine eligibility. The Watch Commander or their designee has the discretion to accept, approve or deny a request at any time. If the Ride-along is denied after the request has been made, a representative of the Community Services Bureau will contact the applicant and advise him/her of the denial.

Once approved, a civilian Ride-along will be allowed to ride once every six months. An effort will be made to ensure that no more than one citizen will participate in a Ride-along during any given time period. Normally no more than one Ride-along will be allowed in the Officer's vehicle at a given time.