Ben Barber, a fast-talking, high school security guard, has dreams of becoming a police officer and marrying his girlfriend, Angela. However, Angela's tough, no-nonsense brother James, a seasoned Atlanta PD detective, doubts Ben’s suitability for both roles. Determined to prove himself worthy, Ben finally gets a chance when James invites him on a day-long ride along designed to scare him off. Ben jumps at the opportunity, hoping to earn James' respect and – ultimately – his blessing to propose to Angela.

Throughout their chaotic day together, Ben finds himself caught in one dangerous situation after another, as James uses every opportunity to test his resolve and competence. They deal with petty crimes, hostile criminals, and even a major case involving a mysterious figure known as "Omar." As Ben struggles to keep up with the physical and mental challenges of being a cop, he inadvertently stumbles upon vital information for the case James is working on. The ride along exposes Ben's weaknesses but also reveals surprising strengths, creating an unpredictable relationship dynamic that continuously shifts throughout their action-packed day.