I'm 17 and thinking about joining the military. What's the age limit for enlisting? Do I need parental consent at this age, or is it possible to enlist on my own?
The minimum age to enlist in the United States military is 17 years old. However, if you're 17, you are considered a minor and will need parental consent to enlist. Once you turn 18, you can enlist without needing a parent or guardian's permission.
Also, keep in mind that while you can enlist at 17, you generally won't be sent to basic training until you've graduated from high school. It's important to consider how this decision might interact with your current education plans and future career goals.
A military recruiter would be able to provide more detailed information about the enlistment process, so it could be beneficial to schedule a meeting to discuss your options. Be sure to bring a list of questions so you get all the information you need to make an informed decision.
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