Military Resources  

Age Limits for Enlisting

You must be at least 17 to enlist in any branch of the active military. The oldest you can be to enlist for active duty in each branch is:

• Coast Guard: 31

• Marines: 28

• Navy: 39

• Army: 35

• Air Force: 39

• Space Force: 39

Some branches have different age limits for their part-time Reserve and National Guard. Visit each service's recruiting website for its part-time age limits. 

Requirements for Enlisting If You Are Not a U.S. Citizen

You do not have to be a U.S. citizen to enlist in the military, but you may have fewer options. If you are not a U.S. citizen, you must:

• Have a permanent resident card, also known as a Green Card

• Currently live in the U.S.

• Speak, read, and write English fluently

Educational and Testing Requirements for Enlisting

You must take the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test. The ASVAB has 10 subtests.

• Your scores on four of those make up your Armed Forces Qualification Test (AFQT) score. This score determines which branch(es) you may join. Each branch has its own lowest score for joining.

• Your scores on all 10 sub-tests determine which job specialties you qualify for.

You can prepare for the ASVAB by taking sample questions.

You must have a high school diploma or a GED to enlist. The services accept only a small number of people with GEDs each year. You can increase your chances of qualifying with a GED by:

• Earning some college credits and

• Scoring well on the Armed Forces Qualification Test (AFQT)

Health and Fitness Requirements for Enlisting

You must pass a military entrance medical exam. This includes a physical exam, hearing test, vision test, and height and weight measurements. 

Each service has its own physical requirements and fitness standards. These depend on the demands of its mission. Even within the same branch, some jobs have tougher or extra requirements.