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5.1.1 - Authorization

Civilian ride-alongs require supervisor approval before beginning. The civilian must provide valid identification and complete the required departmental waiver. The sponsoring officer shall explain safety rules and the authority of the officer to end the ride-along at any time.

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5.1.2 - Required Precautions

  • Only one civilian passenger per patrol vehicle.
  • A safety search and department-issued protective vest are mandatory under the existing DPS ride-along policy; any search must also comply with applicable law and valid consent/authorization.
  • Officers must use an approved seating position and vehicle. An unapproved passenger arrangement is prohibited.
  • Civilian participants may not handle police equipment, access the MDT, or use department radios.

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5.1.3 - Operational Restrictions

Ride-along participants shall not accompany an officer to priority calls. The officer shall avoid foreseeably dangerous assignments and arrange a safe drop-off or transfer if an unexpected high-risk incident develops. The supervising officer or sponsoring officer may terminate the ride-along at any time for safety, misconduct, or operational necessity. Record supervisory approval and noteworthy incidents in the appropriate departmental system.