Port Lavaca, TX · Calhoun County
Civilian Ride-Along Request
This seven-page packet combines Port Lavaca’s ride-along instructions, release of claims, application, and program evaluations for people seeking to observe a police officer on patrol.
- licensed online notary
- ~15 min average
- Notarized PDF emailed
What you’ll need
- Government-issued photo ID
- Webcam-enabled device (laptop or phone)
- This form, ready to upload as a PDF
What this form is
The packet explains eligibility and conduct rules, provides an application for a ride-along, and includes a release of claims that the observer signs. The instructions say riders must submit the Rider Information Form and Release of Claims Form to the Chief of Police at least 24 hours in advance, during normal office hours. The packet also includes evaluation pages for the observer and officer to complete after a ride.
Who needs it
Adults requesting to observe a Port Lavaca police officer on patrol must submit the application and release, and agree to the department’s eligibility and conduct rules.
Why it needs a notary
The release of claims carries an acknowledgment block, where the rider personally appears before a commissioned online notary and acknowledges freely signing the instrument.
How to get this notarized
- 1
Download the Packet
Get the Civilian Ride-Along packet from the Port Lavaca Police Department.
- 2
Complete the Forms
Fill out the ride-along application and review the instructions and release of claims.
- 3
Book an Online Notary
Schedule an online notarization for the release of claims.
- 4
Sign on Video
Appear by video and sign the release when the commissioned online notary instructs you.
- 5
Submit to the City
Submit the Rider Information Form and Release of Claims Form to the Chief of Police at least 24 hours in advance during normal office hours.
Preview the form
The blank PDF straight from Port Lavaca. Look it over, then upload your filled copy to start the notary session.
You’ll need ID and a webcam.
A licensed online notary will join you on video, verify your government-issued ID, witness your signature, and apply their seal. You’ll receive the notarized PDF by email when the session ends.
Frequently asked questions
- How do I get the ride-along request notarized online?
- Complete the packet, then book an appointment with a commissioned online notary. Sign the release of claims during the video session when instructed, and submit the required forms to the Chief of Police.
- Do I need to notarize the entire ride-along packet?
- The packet’s notary block appears in the release of claims. The application and evaluation pages do not show a notary block in the provided form text.
- Can I use an online notary for this acknowledgment?
- Texas has authorized remote online notarization since 2018 under Government Code Chapter 406, Subchapter C. Texas also recognizes acknowledgments taken by notaries of other states under CPRC §121.001; confirm with the city if unsure.
- When must I submit the rider information and release?
- The instructions say to submit the Rider Information Form and Release of Claims Form to the Chief of Police during normal office hours at least 24 hours before the ride.