The requirements to join are different based on how you choose to serve—as an enlisted Soldier or Army Officer. We’re here to help you navigate the requirements, no matter which path you choose.
Perform important day-to-day operations and ensure the success of your unit’s mission. Requirements to join as an enlisted Soldier include:
Lead missions, make decisions, and ensure the safety of Soldiers under your command. Requirements to join as an Army Officer include:
YOU’RE MORE THAN CAPABLE. YOU’RE MORE THAN CAPABLE.Make sure you’re prepared to take the next step by considering some of the common questions other Soldiers had before they joined. You can always talk to a recruiter if you have any additional questions.
YOU’RE MORE THAN CAPABLE. YOU’RE MORE THAN CAPABLE.Make sure you’re prepared to take the next step by considering some of the common questions other Soldiers had before they joined. You can always talk to a recruiter if you have any additional questions.
YOU’RE MORE THAN CAPABLE. YOU’RE MORE THAN CAPABLE.Make sure you’re prepared to take the next step by considering some of the common questions other Soldiers had before they joined. You can always talk to a recruiter if you have any additional questions.
YOU’RE MORE THAN CAPABLE. YOU’RE MORE THAN CAPABLE.Make sure you’re prepared to take the next step by considering some of the common questions other Soldiers had before they joined. You can always talk to a recruiter if you have any additional questions.
The maximum age to join the Army as an enlisted Soldier is 35, while Officers must accept their commission before age 31. However, the Army can lift some restrictions based on the need for certain roles to be filled. It’s possible to receive an age waiver, especially if you have prior military service. Talk to your recruiter to learn more.
You can still join with a medical disqualification as long as you get a medical waiver, which is issued on a case-by-case basis.
You can have tattoos almost anywhere on your body, with a few exceptions. There are some limits to the size and number of tattoos on highly visible areas like the hands, neck, and behind the ears. Tattoos in the mouth, ears, or on the eyelids are not allowed. It’s possible to get a waiver in some instances. However, tattoos anywhere on your body that are extremist, racist, sexist, or otherwise indecent aren’t allowed, no exceptions. See all tattoo requirements in the hair and appearance guidelines.
Asthma will only prevent you from joining if you were diagnosed with it after your 13th birthday. Hearing, vision, and asthma qualifications are usually determined by medical exams. You can still request an asthma, vision, or hearing loss waiver if a doctor denies your application.
Yes. It will only prevent you from joining the Army if you’ve been treated with ADD/ADHD medication within the last year, or if you display obvious signs of the condition.
Height and weight restrictions vary by age and gender. Check the height and weight chart to see if you’re within the requirements to join.
Men (Ages 17 – 20) Height: 58 – 80 in.
Weight: 234 lb max Women (Ages 17 – 20) Height: 58 – 80 in.
Weight: 119 – 227 lb. If you enlist to become a Soldier and don’t meet the physical requirements at MEPS, you may be eligible for the fitness track of a program called the Future Soldier Preparatory Course. Over 90 days, Army health and fitness experts will help you meet the required body fat composition before you start Basic Training. Talk to a recruiter about program details and if it’s an option for you.
For both the enlisted Soldier and commissioned Officer paths, you’ll need to meet the height and weight requirements for your age and gender before joining. A recruiter will work with you after you join to meet the physical requirements of your chosen Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) or Army job.
