Citizen Rider

Would you like to see what Dallas police officers do throughout their shift? You can ride with a Dallas police officer and see firsthand what officers encounter on a daily basis. Our Citizen Rider Program allows citizens the opportunity to ride with an experienced officer for up to four hours of their regular patrol shift. Participants are limited to one time per calendar year, unless otherwise approved by the Chief of Police or designee. 

Persons requesting additional information regarding the Citizen Rider program may call 503.831.3516. Citizen Rider request forms are available at the Police Department or below. Please return completed forms to the Police Department located in City Hall or to dpd.intake@dallasor.gov 

Requirements

Any citizen wishing to ride as an observer must complete a Citizen Rider Request Form and have it approved by a police department supervisor prior to riding with an officer. Citizens under 18 years of age must have parental approval. Juveniles must be at least 16 years old to participate in ride-a-longs during other than daylight hours.

Expectations

Any seemingly minor call can quickly bring the unexpected. Citizens may witness firsthand, anything from routine patrol work, to emergency responses or a major case investigation. Additionally, this is a terrific way to get to know some of the officers on a one-on-one personal basis. 

The safety of their citizen riders is a high priority for the police officers. In an especially dangerous response situation, an officer may be required to quickly drop off their rider at a safe location.