I'm keen on joining the military after high school. Can anyone list out what documents are required? Also, if you're not born in the U.S, what would be the additional documents required like a foreign birth certificate or something?
The exact documents required to join the military may depend somewhat on the specific branch you're interested in, but there are some universal items you definitely need. These include:
- Social Security Card
- Valid Driver’s License or state issued ID
- Original or Certified copy of your Birth Certificate
- U.S. Passport
And, if you have it, the following documents could also be helpful:
- High school diploma or GED certificate
- College transcripts, if applicable
- Medical records, specifically if you have had surgery or a serious illness
For those who were born outside the U.S., joining the military requires some additional documentation, most notably proof of legal residency. You will need one of the following:
- Certificate of Citizenship
- Certificate of Naturalization
- U.S. passport
- Permanent resident card (often referred to as a Green card).
If your birth certificate was issued in a country outside of the U.S., and if it's not in English, you might need to provide a certified translation.
Remember to verify this with your recruiter and check the specific requirements for the branch you're interested in as they might have additional requirements or exceptions based on specific circumstances. It's always best to be thorough and ask directly to minimize any potential roadblocks during the recruitment process.
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