Why Might You Be Barred from Joining the Military?

I've always had this dream of joining the military after graduation. But I've heard that there are some conditions which could prevent you from joining. Could anyone elaborate on what could potentially disqualify a person from enlisting?

Absolutely, not everyone is eligible to join the military and the basic eligibility criteria can vary slightly between branches (such as the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, and Coast Guard), but there are some general disqualifications to be aware of:

1. Age: Each branch has age limitations for enlistment. For instance, you generally need to be 18 to 34 years old to enlist in the Army, although exceptions can be made for 17-year-olds with parental consent and older candidates with certain skills or professions.

2. Citizenship: While non-citizens can join the United States military, some roles may be unavailable to them. Citizenship or legal permanent residency is typically required.

3. Education: A high school diploma is usually required, though in some cases a GED may be accepted. Be aware, however, that individuals with GEDs often face tighter admission restrictions.

4. Health & Fitness: Medical or mental health issues can potentially disqualify you. The military requires you to be in good physical condition and also pass a medical exam. Some conditions, such as asthma, flat feet, and poor vision, could potentially be disqualifying, as well as mental health conditions like ADHD and depression. Additionally, body weight and body fat percentage are scrutinized to ensure you meet physical standards.

5. Legal Issues: A significant legal history can prevent you from joining the military. Serious offenses, especially felonies, can disqualify you. Some misdemeanors may also be problematic. It’s worth noting that waivers can sometimes be obtained, but it largely depends on the nature and number of offenses.

6. Drug Usage: A history of drug use can disqualify candidates. While the military's policies and tolerance levels on past drug use vary by branch, substantial substance misuse or addiction history may result in disqualification.

7. Tattoos and Piercings: Some branches have regulations about visible tattoos or piercings. On an individual basis, each service will decide if a tattoo or piercing is acceptable.

Remember, this is not an exhaustive list and recruiters or hiring officers may consider other factors as well. The best course of action would be to directly contact recruiters from the branch of the military you are interested in to receive the most accurate information regarding qualifications.