Civil Air Patrol Cadet Program
Civil Air Patrol cadets develop leadership, character, fitness, and aerospace knowledge while serving their communities and preparing for future opportunities.
Cadet membership in CAP is available to all young men and women who meet the eligibility requirements. Cadets who become members before their 19th birthday may retain their cadet status until they reach 21 years of age; however, active senior membership is optional for all cadets at age 18.
Our goal is to develop cadet members into responsible citizens who become future aerospace leaders. We follow a military model that emphasizes Air Force traditions and values. What sets us apart from other youth programs is that our cadets can also participate in our real-world missions.
Cadet Program Elements
Civil Air Patrol’s Cadet Program is organized around four elements that allow cadets to advance through achievements, earn honors, and accept increasing responsibility.
CAP introduces cadets to Air Force perspectives on leadership through classroom instruction, mentoring, and hands-on learning. Cadets first learn to follow, then progress toward leading teams, managing projects, thinking independently, and developing leadership skills useful throughout life.
CAP inspires a love of aviation, space, technology, and cyber defense. Cadets study aerospace science in the classroom, experience flight firsthand in CAP and military aircraft, and may explore STEM careers through summer activities.
CAP encourages cadets to develop a lifelong habit of regular exercise. The program promotes fitness through calisthenics, hiking, rappelling, volleyball, competitions, and other physical activities.
CAP challenges cadets to live by shared core values. Through character forums, cadets discuss ethical issues relevant to teens. CAP also encourages cadets to promote a drug-free ethic in their schools and communities.
Commitment
The CAP Cadet Oath symbolizes how serious cadets are about becoming leaders. Cadets are expected to be able to recite the oath from memory.
I pledge that I will serve faithfully in the Civil Air Patrol Cadet Program, and that I will attend meetings regularly, participate actively in unit activities, obey my officers, wear my uniform properly, and advance my education and training rapidly to prepare myself to be of service to my community, state, and nation.
Civil Air Patrol also operates in accordance with a Cadet Protection Policy to help keep youth safe from physical, sexual, and emotional abuse and hazing.
Eligibility
The following are the requirements to join CAP as a cadet member:
Membership is on a year-to-year basis. Cadets may have their membership terminated for failure to maintain satisfactory academic performance, lack of participation, loss of interest demonstrated by failure to attend meetings, or misconduct including conduct unbecoming a CAP member, false statements, serious or willful violations of CAP regulations, failure to obey rules or orders, and insubordination.
Start Your Journey
Fill out the interest form so the squadron closest to you can stay in touch. You may join any composite or cadet squadron in the wing, and it is okay to visit more than one.
Prospective cadets are required to attend three meetings before applying for cadet membership. This trial period helps determine whether CAP is a good fit.
When ready, apply online or complete the CAP cadet application through national headquarters. Proof of identity must be confirmed by the squadron.
Open Cadet ApplicationReady to Learn More?
Take the next step and request more information about joining Civil Air Patrol as a cadet.
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