Can you enlist in the military with diabetes?

I'm interested in joining the military but I have diabetes. I'm not sure how this affects my eligibility. Are there any different requirements or processes I should be aware of, like getting a waiver?

The Department of Defense has historically considered diabetes as disqualifying medical condition for military service across all branches - Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, and Space Force. Managing diabetes, especially type 1, can be challenging in the military environment due to the rigorous physical activity, unpredictable schedules, and the limited access to medical facilities in some assignments.

However, the military does consider waivers on a case-by-case basis, depending on the specific branch and individual health circumstances. The waiver process generally includes evaluations by a medical professional, demonstrating control of your condition, and potentially your ability to perform military duties without endangering yourself or others. These policies are constantly being evaluated, so it's also advised to reach out to a military recruiter for the most accurate and current information.

Keep in mind, even if a waiver is granted, it may limit the military occupational specialties available to you. Certain roles, particularly those involving high-stress environments or deployment in overseas locations, may have more restrictive medical requirements. It's crucial to discuss these potential restrictions upfront with your recruiter.