Membership in IMSARU is based on the principles of non-discrimination. Individuals will not be denied membership for reasons of race, color, religion, national origin, culture, physical, or mental handicaps. Age will only be used as a criteria for membership as it bears on the minimum age for membership.

There are six categories or types of membership and nine specialties or certifications. Training and/or minimum requirements will be detailed in policy and/or procedure.

1. SUSTAINING: Individuals who contribute financial or material support, but are not otherwise involved in unit activities. These members receive unit publications, but do not pay dues and do not vote.
2. EX-OFFICIO: Organizations and agencies which assist in furthering the aims of IMSARU. These members receive unit publications, but do not pay dues and do not vote.
3. LIFE: This honorary category recognizes members whose long term contributions to IMSARU justify this special distinction. These individuals enjoy all of the normal privileges of membership, including voting, but are not required to pay dues.
4. SUSPENDED: Members whose dues are three or more months in arrears. These members are not allowed to vote.
5. APPLICANT: These individuals are engaged in the process of applying for membership. They are allow to participate in some unit activities, but are not required to pay dues or allowed to vote.
   $75 application fee covers 1st year dues, SAR Manual, field certification shirt and patch.
6. MEMBER: Individuals who have met the requirements for general membership, are accepted into the organization, dues are current, and do not fit in one of the categories above. Members may choose to pursue one or more of the following specialties or certifications.

1. Search Technicians
   Under varying levels of supervision, depending upon weather, terrain, or other factors, will be capable of performing as a field searcher in a three season environment in the terrain typically found in SW Idaho. The training required will allow these individuals to operate in the field as a member of a search team, be self sufficient for 72 hours, and perform appropriate duties as required.
2. Special Certifications
   May be required for certain SAR resources such as dogs, horses, and special equipment. This certification will indicate that the handler or operator has been trained in the safe and effective utilization of the special resource in meeting unit goals.
3. Winter Certification
   Will indicate that the Search Technician has been trained to travel and operate in the field in the winter conditions normally found in southwest Idaho.
4. Search Specialist
   Is a Technician who has received additional training and experience which allows them to perform as a team leader on four season search operations. These skills will allow them to supervise a team in the safe and effective pursuit of the search mission goals.
5. Rescue Specialist
   Is a Technician trained and equipped to perform as a team leader in organizing and conducting a wilderness technical rescue operation using untrained personnel in the weather and terrain found in southwest Idaho.
6. SAR Manager
   A Search or Rescue Specialist who has received specific training in SAR Management or has accumulated sufficient experience to allow them to safely and effectively manage a field operation.
7. Safety Education Specialist
   Is a member who through training, experience, or education is prepared to present mountain safety awareness and/or education information to those groups of people targeted by the mission statement.
8. Administrative Specialist
   Is a member who participates in the mangement of the organization. These members are elected or appointed and perform administrative, management, or supervisory functions as officers, committee members, or members at large.
9. Logistical Specialist
   Is a member who participates in the aquisition, maintenance, distribution, and/or utilization of equipment and supplies in the pursuit of organizational goals.