FAQ

How old do I have to be to be an Explorer? 

Applicants must be between 14 and 20 years of age and have completed the 8th grade to be eligible for membership in the Flathead County Sheriff's Office Law Enforcement Explorer Program. 

Do I have to live in Flathead County to be a member?

Applicants must either reside in Flathead County or attend a school within Flathead County to be eligible for membership in the Flathead County Sheriff's Office Law Enforcement Explorer Program.  

What is the cost of the program?

There is no membership fee to join the Flathead County Sheriff's Office Law Enforcement Explorer Program.

However, members are responsible for purchasing a pair of black duty boots and a duty belt as part of their required uniform. Applicants should plan to spend approximately $150 for these items.

When participating in out-of-town events, competitions, or conferences, Explorers are responsible for their own travel expenses. Depending on the event, these costs may include transportation, some meals, lodging, conference registration fees, and other associated travel expenses.

The Explorer Program actively seeks donations and fundraising opportunities to help offset costs whenever possible, making these experiences more accessible to our members.

What is considered in the background check?

As part of the application process, each applicant must successfully complete a background investigation. The purpose of this review is to ensure applicants meet the standards of character, integrity, and responsibility expected of members of the Flathead County Sheriff's Office Law Enforcement Explorer Program.

During the background investigation, Advisors review:

• Prior law enforcement contacts.

• Criminal arrests and charges.

• Traffic violations and driving history.

Applicants are expected to be completely honest throughout the application process. Providing false, misleading, or incomplete information on an application is grounds for disqualification or removal from the program.

To be eligible for membership:

• Applicants must not have any criminal arrests or convictions within the previous three (3) years.

• Applicants may not have any felony convictions at any time.

• Traffic offenses are not included in the three-year criminal history requirement; however, they will be reviewed and evaluated by the Post Advisor as part of the overall application process.

The background investigation is one of several factors considered during the selection process and helps ensure the program maintains the high standards expected of future law enforcement professionals.

How long is the Explorer program?

The Flathead County Sheriff's Office Law Enforcement Explorer Program operates year-round, with weekly meetings, trainings, community service events, and other program activities designed to provide members with consistent learning and leadership opportunities.

Members are expected to maintain an active level of participation throughout the year:

• A minimum attendance rate of 70% is required to remain in good standing with the program.

• A minimum attendance rate of 80% is required to be eligible for law enforcement ride-alongs.

Because the program builds skills progressively, applicants should be prepared to make a minimum one-year commitment. This commitment allows Explorers to fully benefit from the training, mentorship, and experiences the program has to offer while contributing to the success of the Explorer Post.

What are the benefits of joining the Explorer program?

The Flathead County Sheriff's Office Law Enforcement Explorer Program provides young adults with unique opportunities to develop leadership skills, serve their community, and explore careers in law enforcement and public safety.

As an Explorer, you will have the opportunity to:

• Gain valuable knowledge and firsthand experience in the field of law enforcement.

• Receive high-quality, hands-on training that is not typically available to the general public.

• Volunteer in your community while earning community service hours and making a positive impact.

• Build lifelong friendships and professional connections with fellow Explorers and law enforcement professionals.

• Participate in law enforcement ride-alongs (when eligibility requirements are met) to observe deputies and officers in the field.

• Compete at regional and national Explorer competitions, testing your skills while meeting Explorers from across the country.

• Develop leadership, communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills that will benefit you in any future career.

• Prepare for a career in law enforcement, criminal justice, or public safety through mentorship and real-world experiences.

Whether your goal is to become a deputy sheriff, police officer, federal agent, firefighter, paramedic, or simply become a stronger leader in your community, the Explorer Program provides experiences and opportunities that will last a lifetime.