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Civil Air Patrol

How to join

Five steps, starting with a visit

Whether you are a young person looking for leadership and adventure, an adult seeking a meaningful volunteer opportunity, or a parent exploring options for your child, the process begins at your local squadron.

  1. 01Find a squadron
  2. 02Attend three meetings
  3. 03Apply
  4. 04Onboarding
  5. 05Start

  1. Step 1

    Find a squadron

    CAP has over 1100 local squadrons.

    Use the squadron locator to find a unit near your home, school, or workplace. Squadrons meet on a regular schedule one weeknight a week.

    Find a Squadron Near You

  2. Step 2

    Attend three squadron meetings

    Before joining, prospective members attend three local squadron meetings.

    These visits let you learn about Civil Air Patrol, meet local members, see activities firsthand, and ask questions. They also help make sure CAP fits your interests, goals, and schedule.

    By the end of your visits you will have a much better sense of what membership looks like and which opportunities exist in your local unit.

    Civil Air Patrol members in utility uniform during a squadron activity

  3. Step 3

    Complete your membership application

    Decided CAP is right for you? Apply and pay your annual dues.

    Your local squadron walks you through the application and answers questions along the way. Adult applicants also complete a background check as part of joining an organization that works with young people. Cadet safety is a top priority.

  4. Step 4

    Complete new member onboarding

    New members get introductory training and orientation covering:

    • CAP’s missions and values
    • Safety practices
    • Available programs and specialties
    • Local squadron activities
    • Opportunities for growth and advancement
    A Civil Air Patrol cadet standing in formation with their squadron

  5. Step 5

    Start your CAP journey

    There is no single CAP experience.

    Cadets develop leadership skills, explore aviation and STEM, serve their communities, and take part in activities that challenge them to grow. Adult members mentor cadets, support emergency services, teach, lead, fly, communicate, manage technology and logistics, and help keep the organization running.

    The path you choose depends on your interests, goals, and the impact you want to make.

    A Civil Air Patrol cadet officer in service dress uniform

Common questions

The things people ask first

Do I need military experience?

No. Civil Air Patrol is a civilian volunteer organization, and most members have never served in the military.

Do I need aviation experience?

No. Most members are not pilots, and no aviation background is required. People contribute in many different ways based on their interests and skills.

Is there a minimum age?

Cadets join as early as age 12 and take part in the cadet program, with the option to continue serving as a cadet up to age 21. Adults join at 18 and older. There is no upper age limit for adult members.

Do I have to attend three meetings before joining?

Yes. The three visits give you a chance to see what CAP is like, meet the people in your local squadron, and decide whether it’s a good fit before committing to membership.

How much does membership cost?

Membership dues vary by state and membership type. Your local squadron can tell you the current amount and any financial assistance that may be available.

Still have a question? Your nearest squadron is the best place to ask — look one up.

Not sure which parts of CAP fit you?

The Fit Finder Quiz takes about two minutes and points you at the opportunities that match what you actually want to do.

Take the Fit Finder QuizGet more information