Are you curious about what it’s like to be a police officer? The San Mateo Police Department Ride-Along Program gives community members, applicants, and anyone interested in law enforcement a chance to experience a day in the life of a police officer. You’ll get to observe our officers as they respond to calls, serve the community, and handle various situations on patrol.

This program is a great way to get a behind-the-scenes look at police work, whether you're considering a career in law enforcement or just want to know more about how officers protect and serve San Mateo.

How to Apply

1. Complete and sign the Ride-Along Program application form. Participants under 18 need a parent or guardian to sign. You can submit your application in person at the police department, mail it in, or email it to police@cityofsanmateo.org.
2. If you're under 16, special permission is required, and you'll need to be accompanied by a parent, legal guardian, or responsible adult.
3. Once your application is reviewed, scheduling is handled by the Field Operations Division. You will be notified of your ride-along date and time.
4. On the day of your ride, bring your personal identification card to present to the Field Operations Services sergeant.

Program Guidelines

• Attire: Dress in a professional and respectful manner.
• Restrictions: Ride-alongs are only offered to applicants, and those who are residents, students, or employed within the city of San Mateo. You cannot ride with an officer you are related to, married to, dating, or in a relationship with.
• Ride Frequency: Participants can only ride once unless special permission is given by the Field Operations Services captain or sergeant.
• Safety: While you'll be able to observe, officers will ensure you're kept safe and will not take you to dangerous scenes. In some cases, officers may drop you at a safe location during a call.
• Confidentiality: Everything you observe during your ride-along must remain confidential, including the names of people involved in police matters. No video, photo, or recording devices are allowed without permission, but you are free to take notes.
• Availability: Ride-alongs are typically scheduled Sunday through Thursday, with exceptions granted by the Field Operations Services captain or sergeant.

Ready to see police work up close? Apply today and join us for this unique and educational experience!