The requirements to join Civil Air Patrol are outlined in CAP Manual 39-2.

In general, the requirements are:

For Officers (adults):

• Possess the desire, willingness, and capability to promote the objectives and purposes of Civil Air Patrol.
• At least 18 years old. Active duty members of the Armed Forces can join CAP as a senior member at any age.
• United States citizen or alien lawfully admitted for permanent residence in the U.S.
• No felony conviction by any court of record whether federal, state or military.
• No pattern of arrests and/or convictions including but not limited to sex offenses, child abuse, Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol (DUI), dishonesty and violence.
• Not discharged from the armed services under other than honorable conditions.
• Applicants for senior membership will be required to undergo an FBI background check.
• Dues for FY 2008-2009 are $72.00 to Join, $62.00 to renew

For Cadets:

• Twelve years old through 18 years old.
• Enrolled in or graduated from a public or private school, home school, or college with a satisfactory record of academic achievement.
• Not married.
• Not a member of the active duty Armed Forces.
• United States Citizen or alien lawfully admitted for permanent residence in the U.S.
• Be of good moral character.
• Cadets may remain in the cadet program until age 21, although they are eligible to enter the Senior program at age 18.
• Dues for FY 2008-2009 are $30.00 to Join, $30.00 to renew

For more information:

For more information on these classes of membership, as well as other classes of membership available, consult CAPM 39-2. 

If you're in the Jackson or Vicksburg, MS area, you can contact the Major James McKinnie Composite Squadron  
Elsewhere in Mississippi, contact your local squadron or the Wing Headquarters.
If you don't live in Mississippi, you can use the Unit Locator.

To learn more about Civil Air Patrol,

 please visit the National Headquarters Site.