The Navy’s rate and rank structure for men and women on active duty is similar to the rate and rank structure used by the cadets in the NJROTC program. Enlisted personnel have rates, and commissioned officers have ranks. An officer’s rank refers to his or her official title (e.g., ensign, lieutenant commander, captain, etc.), but it also indicates the amount of pay received monthly. Enlisted personnel have similar titles and pay grades. The lowest three enlisted pay grades are in the general apprenticeship area before advancement to petty officer pay grades. When officers move up to the next rank and pay grade, they have earned a promotion. When enlisted personnel move up to the next higher rate in their specialty, they have advanced in rate. The uniform sleeve and collar insignia for naval rates and ranks are shown here, from the lowest to the highest.

enlisted rates

e-1 seaman recruit (sr)

CHIEF PETTY OFFICER RATES

WARRANT OFFICER RANKS

W-1 No Longer in use

OFFICER RANKS