Can you leave the military after enlisting?

If I enlist in the military but it's not right for me, is there any way to leave before my service contract is up? I’m worried about long-term commitments. Any info on this would be helpful!

In general, leaving the military before the end of your enlistment contract isn't easy. Military services are serious commitments that typically last a minimum of four years for active duty recruits.

Upon signing the enlistment contract, you obligate yourself to fulfill the terms, which includes completing basic training, attending follow-on schools, and serving the required amount of time in active duty or in the reserves. Failing to live up to your end of the agreement can lead to serious consequences, including prosecution under military rules or federal law.

With that being said, the military does have mechanisms for early separations but they are granted under very specific circumstances, which include but are not limited to medical conditions discovered after enlistment, hardship, or convenience of the government. However, these are typically not under the control of the individual servicemember and depend on various specific conditions being met. For instance, a hardship discharge requires proof of an extreme family crisis, and convenience of the government discharges are subject to the interests and needs of the military.

Also, note that early discharge can have implications on potential veteran benefits, such as the G.I. Bill for education, as these often require honorable discharges after completing a certain amount of active duty service.

If you're concerned about the commitment, speaking with current and former servicemembers about their experiences, and considering alternative military service options like reserves or National Guard could be beneficial. But remember that joining the military is indeed a significant commitment and it is important to reflect on whether it aligns with your career and life goals before making the decision.