United States Military Enlistment Standards

Do You Qualify to Enlist in the United States Military?

As I have often said, there is no right granted to anyone to serve in the United States Military. The respective military departments do have the absolute right to reject you for any reason it deems appropriate. Regardless of how recruiting commercials may "sell" the military, it is not a "jobs program." It's serious business, involving the security of the United States of America, and our country's national interests.

Congress and the courts have held that Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which ensures all individuals are treated equally before the law with respect to civilian employment, does not apply to the military profession. No less than seven major Supreme Court decisions support this.

As such, the military doesn't accept just anyone who wants to join. You must be qualified, under current federal laws and regulations and/or you must receive an approved waiver for the condition which may make you disqualified. So, what are the general qualifications to enlist in the military?

• Age
• Citizenship
• Number of Dependents
• Credit and Finances
• Single Parents
• Applicants Married to Military Members
• Education
• Drug/Alcohol Involvement
• Criminal History
• Sexual Preference
• Height/Weight Standards
• Medical Physical
• Miscellaneous Provisions