Can you back out of the military after enlisting and what's the latest you can do so?

I'm considering enlisting, but I want to know how late I can change my mind after signing up. What are the legal or personal consequences?

Once you enlist in the military, there is a period before you actually ship out for basic training, during which you can request to be released from your contract. This period prior to the start of active service is called the Delayed Entry Program (DEP).

You have a legal right to get out of the DEP. If you decide not to report for basic training, the military can technically order you to report for duty. However, this is highly unlikely, and in practice, the military does not prosecute people who fail to report for basic training because they choose to back out of the DEP.

To drop out of the DEP, it's best to do so in writing. You don't have to provide a reason, but it's crucial to clearly express your intention not to enlist. It's best to send your request as soon as possible after you change your mind.

Please note that although you can drop out of the DEP without penalty, doing so may not reflect positively on you and could affect your ability to enlist in the future. This is not a legal consequence, but more of a reputational one to consider. Do keep in mind that entering the military should be a decision made with careful consideration and guidance.