I'm considering joining the military after high school. How old do I have to be to enlist? Are there any special requirements if you're under 18?
The United States military has a minimum age requirement for enlistment. For all branches, which includes the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, and the newest branch, Space Force, you must be at least 17 years old to enlist. However, if you are 17, you will need parental consent. Once you turn 18, parental consent is no longer necessary.
In addition to these age rules, there are also some other general requirements for enlistment, such as being a U.S. citizen or resident alien, having a high school diploma or equivalency (with very few exceptions), and passing a physical medical exam.
Remember, enlisting is a big decision, and you might benefit from consulting with others about your plans, such as a guidance or career counselor, or reaching out to a local recruitment office to get more detailed information. Also consider exploring ROTC programs if you're planning to go to college, as these programs can provide scholarship opportunities and a pathway to becoming an officer.
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