Irvine Police Explorers

The Irvine Police Department (IPD) Explorers provides teens who may be interested in a career in law enforcement with a comprehensive volunteer program, including training, competition, service and practical experiences. Character development, physical fitness, good citizenship, patriotism and volunteerism are integral components of the overall program. Through their involvement in the program, Explorers develop an awareness of the purpose, mission and objectives of law enforcement agencies.

The IPD Explorer program offers the unique opportunity for young adults to work alongside law enforcement professionals. Using training provided by IPD, Explorers provide traffic control, assist at community events and DUI checkpoints, and provide support to various divisions of the Department. The Irvine Explorer Honor Guard represents IPD by presenting the Nation’s Colors at events and adhering to flag etiquette.

The Orange County Explorer Academy is held twice a year. The academy is a 5-day, high stress training program which Explorers must complete within a year of joining the Explorer program. The academy includes drills, physical fitness and academic training on topics such as K-9 teams, bomb squad, air support, DUI Investigation, gang enforcement, criminal law and SWAT.

Upon completion of the academy, Explorers have the opportunity to participate in monthly patrol ride-alongs and respond to calls for service with Irvine police officers and professional staff in the field.

The Explorer program routinely participates in team building activities outside of the law enforcement training environment to build camaraderie. Activities include movie nights, Knott’s Berry Farm trips and barbeques. Annually, Explorers attend the California Peace Officers’ Memorial in Sacramento as a part of a weekend-long trip.

While the program exposes participants to a career in law enforcement, the desire to pursue a career in policing is not required. Many former Explorers now serve the City of Irvine as police officers, dispatchers, traffic investigators, and public safety assistants. The training and experiences gained in the Explorer program are skills that extend beyond law enforcement to building life experience, confidence, and friendships. 

Program Requirements

Law Enforcement Exploring is open to teens ages 14 through 18 years old. All 14-year-old participants must have already graduated from the eighth grade.

Other eligibility standards include:

  • A ‘Hold Harmless and Release’ form for IPD must be signed by the parents or legal guardian and/or the Explorer if of legal age.
  • Must not have a prior conviction for a criminal offense or serious traffic offense.
  • Must have and maintain a minimum of a C or better in every class while in high school to remain in the program.
  • Must complete Police Explorer Academy and the six month introductory period.
  • Must undergo a thorough background review to assess character and integrity that may include interviews with neighbors, teachers and employers.
  • Must keep body weight in proportion to height and maintain a high level of physical fitness.

How to Apply

Interested participants who meet the requirements below are invited to attend an Explorer general meeting on one of the following dates:

2024 General Meetings:

  • November 13, 2024
  • December 4, 2024

2025 General Meetings:

  • January 8, 2025
  • February 5, 2025
  • March 5, 2025
  • April 2, 2025
  • May 7, 2025
  • June 11, 2025
  • July 2, 2025
  • August 6, 2025
  • September 3, 2025
  • October 1, 2025
  • November 5, 2025

New applicants will received all necessary information to complete the admission process at their first meeting. The application process consists of a comprehensive application, background check and an oral interview.

Explorer General Meetings

Location:

  • Please meet in the Lobby of the Irvine Police Department

1 Civic Center Plaza
Irvine CA 92606

Dates:

  • There are three mandatory meetings a month held on Wednesdays
  • Dates vary to accommodate school testing and breaks
  • First meeting applicants can only be accommodated on the dates listed above.

Time:

  • 6:30 p.m.

Irvine Police Explorers Mission Statement

The mission of the Irvine Police Explorers is to stimulate interest of today’s youth in law enforcement practices and the Explorer Code of Ethics; to promote self-confidence and responsibility; and to provide specific services to the community.

Irvine Police Department Core Values

  • Integrity
  • Quality Service
  • Accountability
  • Respect

Contact

For additional Information or questions, please call the IPD Explorer hotline at 949-724-7048 or call the main IPD Business Desk at 949-724-7000 and ask to speak with an Explorer Advisor.

If you would like to send an email, please contact ipdexplorers@cityofirvine.org.