United States Navy Enlistment Eligibility

• September 19, 2008 -- Navy Student Loan Repayment
• August 13, 2008 -- Medical Issues Not Normally Waivered
• July 9, 2008 -- MEPS Drug and Alcohol Testing (DAT) Program
• June 19, 2008 -- Price of Recruiting Just Went Up
• June 15, 2008 -- MEPS Prescribed Weight Reduction or Gain

89 Comments »

• Is it possible to get a waiver at the age of 37 to be in active navy as desired after been enlisted for a reserve. And if no,what can i do or what part of the reserve can i belong to be able to perform the same duty hours,bonuses and salaries as an active navy? as i am still very young in looks and i really want to be an active navy.

  Comment by kayode honvo — March 2, 2009 @ 4:41 pm

• If you served no prior active military time you would not be eligible to enlist into the active component of the Navy. BUT, there is a new plan in the works that may benefit you if your currently in the Reserve – Just out today as a matter of fact – http://www.navycs.com/blogs/2009/03/02/sailor-for-life

  It isn’t online yet, it may never come online but, the Navy is at least thinking about eliminating the blur between its active and reserve forces.

  Comment by NCCM(ret) — March 2, 2009 @ 5:23 pm

• I’m looking at joining the Navy but I have a rare disorder where I have a missing muscle. I still have a few years before I can join, but I still want to know if putting in the extra work I’d need to do to build up my upper body muscular system to meet the qualifications for the Annapolis.

  Comment by Muscle MIA — April 21, 2009 @ 7:26 pm

• @Muscle MIA

  I have recruited an individual who was missing a muscle in his chest, he was able to join after a waiver was approved. Each situation would be case by case, ensure you maintain copies of all relevant medical documentation and any letters from coaches of sports you may have played referencing your physical ability.

  Hope everything works out!

  Comment by NCCM(ret) — April 21, 2009 @ 9:33 pm

• I am 32 single mom. I would like to join the navy. I was in the navy reserves for a few years. My father is willing to help me with custody. My question is will I still be able to receive bah and benefits with my father helping me with custody. Thanks.

  Comment by Tomeka — July 16, 2009 @ 12:51 pm

• Tomeka,

  I think your custody question can be this way, “If you are single you must not have physical custody of a dependent if you’re processing for enlistment in the active Navy.” You may still be eligible for re-enlistment into the Navy Reserve.

  Comment by NCCM(ret) — July 16, 2009 @ 1:20 pm

• I was placed on SES 2 year unsupervised probation for a DUI offense, i have no prior arrests or convictions on my record. Is it possible for me to be enlisted into the NAVY despite my probation, i was curious specifically about waivers being granted to qualified individuals. Any info would be appreciated.

  Comment by readyandable — July 24, 2009 @ 3:34 pm

• Ready&Able,

  A DUI (BTW) requires a minimum of 1 year waiting time as you can see here – http://www.navycs.com/blogs/2008/09/05/behind-the-wheel

  If the probation is unsupervised and you have no requirement to report and your movement is not restricted you may qualify once the minimum waiting period for the offense is completed.

  Comment by NCCM(ret) — July 24, 2009 @ 7:31 pm

• Next month, which is August of 2009, I will most likely be placed on unsupervised probation for petit theft misdemeanor and have 4 months left to complete my probation..I have a Bachelor’s Degree, and been wanting to join the Navy, however been held back due to a poor decision made by me…is it likely I can get a waiver?? Or how long do I have to wait to be able to actually talk to a recruiter and process myself to join?

  Comment by Lazarus — July 30, 2009 @ 4:43 pm

• Lazarus,
  You may not be qualified to start the process today but there is no reason not to approach a Recruiter and start getting yourself ready for when that day comes. (sorry for the double negative, just one more example why I need to go back to school, thank goodness for the GI Bill )

  Your Recruiter can provide you with study materials for the things you will need to know when you arrive at boot camp – you also can start getting ready physically (DEP PT Standard).

  Waiver approval is dependent on a lot of variables – truly a “whole person” review. Having a degree helps!

  Also, good luck when you get your final adjudication for your charge – keep in mind this very important fact; if the court reduces your penalty for the purpose of joining the military you become ineligible for the Navy.

  For specific questions you may not wish to aire is this format feel free to email me

  Comment by NCCM(ret) — July 30, 2009 @ 5:20 pm

• I’ve talked to a local recruiter and as far as I know I don’t have any medical problems worth being disqualified. I passed there ASVAB practice test way above average and at the moment I’m more then physically able to pass the physical requirements. But because I have a GED my recruiter said that it would probably take awhile to be accepted. How long could I except to wait?

  Comment by karma2122 — August 1, 2009 @ 2:25 pm

• karma2122,

  The waiting time can be a few weeks or even months. It depends on many factors including but not limited to; total Navy congressional cap limits, attainment percentages of the district, region you reside in and seats available.

  Good luck and let us know how things work out.

  Comment by NCCM(ret) — August 1, 2009 @ 2:49 pm

• I have taken the ASVAB and scored an 86 and all my paperwork has been turned in and now I’m just waiting to go to MEPS to receive my physical. My only issue is that when I was 6 years old I had an odd illness called Cat Scratch Disease and it caused a single lymph node to be inflamed, resulting in its removal. One of the side effects of the illness was that I had an extremely high fever resulting in a seizure. Once my infected lymph node was removed and the doctors stabilized me, I never had any issues concerning this illness again. The seizure that I experienced was the only one I ever had and it occurred when I was 6 years old (20 years ago). Does this seem like this would be an issue to the doctors at MEPS resulting in a DQ?

  Comment by bxfx29483 — August 9, 2009 @ 11:55 am

• Bxfx,

  Your medical records from the event will be required, I assume your Recruiter has already submitted them. The MEPS doctor will be looking at two things, one will be the biopsy results of the node removed and the time frame of the events. The fact that you have been asymptomatic for the last 20 years suggests to me you should not have any issue. There is a 5 year minimum waiting period for seizures, you have well surpassed that.

  Good luck and let us know how it all turns out!

  Comment by NCCM(ret) — August 9, 2009 @ 12:22 pm

• Hi I’m 29 yrs old and am want to join the Navy I was readying some of
  The possible enlistment DQ’s, and was wondering if you can clarify the
  Credit and debt parameters? Is it basicly bad credit no military or are
  There specific credit strikes there looking for I.e. bankrupcy, foreclosure,
  Repossessions? Thank you for any info! Al

  Comment by surferdudeAL — August 11, 2009 @ 6:19 pm

• S-Dude-AL,

  Your finances (credit) come into play more so if you have dependents and for certain jobs (security clearance issues). I.E. Having a repo on your record won’t keep you from joining but will keep you from various jobs.

  Having a bankruptcy is not disqualifying. If you are in the process of bankruptcy and have court dates pending you will not be eligible until the court dates are complete or you have letters from the court stating that your presents is not required.

  Comment by NCCM(ret) — August 11, 2009 @ 6:28 pm

• I am 20yrs old,When I was 15yrs old I got a misdemeanor for possession of marijuana, I pleaded guilty and received a sentence of probation with the requirement of substance abuse treatment and it was expunged afterward, since then I have gotten out of that whole scene and I realize the mistake I made when I was was younger, am I eligible to join the navy or does that disqualify me? I talked to the air force and they told me I am ineligible to join, is that the case with the navy? I read that it is possible to get a waiver, is this still a possibility?

  Comment by MrB — August 13, 2009 @ 12:31 am

• MrB,
  Your charges/adjudication (fines/probation/treatment) could be waiverable provided the amount of MJ wasn’t determined to be for distribution. Any other charges you have will also come into consideration, yes, including traffic tickets.

  The chance of approval based on what you provided is possible, go see your local Navy Recruiter.

  Comment by NCCM(ret) — August 13, 2009 @ 7:46 am

• This is bxfx again with an update with the seizure I had when I was 6 yo and its connection with the MEPS process. I went through the physical and other process with ease (except for the duck walk… haha)but then I spoke with the Chief Medical Officer and she blind-sided me with a random question. The CMO asked me when did I discontinue the anti-convulsion medication! Keep in mind the CMO approved me to come up to MEPS without this info as well as never briefing the recruiters or myself with the item in question (like I said I was blind-sided). Trying to hold up military values as well as my own, I told the truth and said I didn’t know. She repeated the question several times but obviously that didn’t help jog my memory. She told me that even though the records weren’t available for the answer, she though she would ask me in order to pass me along. I though that comment was ridiculous! Since I couldn’t address the question with an answer, she told me I needed to discuss the seizure and the details with my current family doctor and have them fill-out an additional medical form. Side note: I have no medical records proving details of my seizure because situation happened exactly 20 years ago this month and the hospital destroys records past the 10 year mark(documentation of this fact was passed along to the CMO prior to me going to MEPS, this is no surprise to the CMO). With this said, I hope that my family doctors comments will suffice and will allow me to pass my physical and enter the Navy. I think that due to all the hops that I’ve jumped through that I should be exempt from boot camp! haha
  Please give me some comments or some POSITIVE insight into my situation.

  Thanks,
  bxfx

  Comment by bxfx29483 — August 13, 2009 @ 2:21 pm

• MEPS doctors can be a pain in the butt and they always think there is a way to prove prior care. As far as seizure meds, the instructions require at least 5 years seizure free without meds.

  Some places you may want to look;
  1. Your family doctor should have the record of medications prescribed after the seizure (as I think the MEPS Doc is suggesting).
  2. The hospital may destroy the records but I would think the attending doctor would keep a separate record.
  3. The insurance company that paid the bill may still have a record (long shot but hey… )

  Best case the MEPS doc approves you based on the family doctors letter, worst case is the MEPS disqualifys you and your record gets sent off for a CNRC medical waiver. Both cases I feel will eventually have you in boot camp for the Navy

  Comment by NCCM(ret) — August 13, 2009 @ 3:32 pm

• My son met with a recruiter who said that there were no job openings for ASVAB scores below 50 so he would have to score at least a 50 to sign up. Is there a better time of the year to enlist with a lower score; when more people are leaving? Is there a waiting list for those who do not score at least a 50?

  Comment by New Minimum — August 14, 2009 @ 9:05 pm

• I assume his education credential is the issue.

  For applicants who are seeking enlistment with a traditional high school diploma, sufficient college credit or clock hours to be considered Tier 1 the minimum is 35QT on the ASVAB.

  A minimum of 50QT is required for anyone with a Tier 2 education such as a GED, home school or other alternative means of education certificates that do not fall into Tier 1. The Navy has not for many years accepted a Tier 2 education with less than a 50QT and seriously doubt they will in the future.

  If education is not the issue then the Region may be over bought in schools he may qualify for (50QT in that instance would not necessarily ensure qualification as the QT isn’t the qualifier for jobs in the Navy – it is the line scores that count for that), in this case jobs may open at any time.

  My email address is owner[at]navycs.com if you wish to discuss this further in private. ([at] = @)

  Comment by NCCM(ret) — August 14, 2009 @ 10:03 pm

• I’ve recently started to think about joining the Navy. I just graduated college with a B.S. degree in Communications. How does that help me if I enlist? If I enlisted, would the Navy help pay for some of the student loans I’ve accumulated? Any help is appreciated. Thanks.

  Comment by ven — August 18, 2009 @ 12:42 am

• Ven,
  Yes, there is a loan repayment program – Navy Student Loan Repayment

  With your degree you would start as an E-3 enlisted but I highly suggest you contact an Officer Recruiter first to see if you qualify for one of their programs.

  Comment by NCCM(ret) — August 18, 2009 @ 2:13 am

• I’m prior service(Navy 6 years) and have been thinking of re-enlisting back into Active Duty, really miss the job satisfaction i had while serving =). Is there any site that shows the required procedures necessary to re-enlist into the service? And maybe some restrictions as to what disqualifies an individual from re-enlisting. I been separated since late 05′ and I’m 28 years old. Thanks

  Comment by Joe.M — August 18, 2009 @ 12:38 pm

• Joe,

  Basically if you received an RE-1, RE-R1 reenlistment code, are not bumping up against HYT and have stayed out of trouble and stayed in shape since you got out you shouldn’t have too much trouble qualifying – the problem will be billets available, there isn’t a web site dedicated to the literally daily changes that occur in the prior service realm – only a Recruiter can tell you what is up and if necessary contact you when a billet opens.

  Good luck and let us know how things go!

  Comment by NCCM(ret) — August 18, 2009 @ 12:50 pm

• Are the scores generally received on the practice ASVAB tests at the recruiters pretty close to what most people get on the actual CAT-ASVAB?

  Thanks!

  Comment by CAST Question — August 21, 2009 @ 1:22 pm

• CAST,
  It is a pretty good indicator, usually within +-10 points

  Comment by NCCM(ret) — August 21, 2009 @ 9:32 pm

• Hi I am 26 years old and have my GED and have 4 driving on a suspended license charges . I have my license and 6 years has passed since all that . Im trying to pull my record because im not sure if its a felony or not . Can i still join the navy ?

  Comment by Dson — August 29, 2009 @ 7:15 pm

• Dson,

  The suspended license charges are traffic violations, not felonies.

  If those are the only charges you have ever had (what got your license suspended in the first place?) and you meet the other criteria for enlistment, you should not have a problem.

  Comment by NCCM(ret) — August 30, 2009 @ 10:48 am

• NCCM(ret)-thanks for the comment ! I had gotten a DUI when i was 18 . I had a full time job at the time to . So i still had to get to work . So i drove hopeing that i wouldnt get caught . Well ya that didnt work . Got caught like 4 times . (DWLSR) So ya that was 6+ years ago . So i was just wondering my dads dad was in the
  navy , my dad was in and my brother is now so just seems like the right thing to do . We will see thanks for the help .

  Comment by Dson — August 30, 2009 @ 9:30 pm

• You could have received your charges when you were 12 years old – if you were adjudicated with a negative finding for a crime it counts! You have 5 charges so far – how many speeding tickets? Ever been arrested, charged or cited for anything else – even if the court or lawyers told you the charges were dropped? All of it counts! The court may tell you the charge is expunged but I assure you the record of the incident is still there and the military will see it so make sure you have a list of everything when you visit your Recruiter!

  Comment by NCCM(ret) — August 31, 2009 @ 7:08 am

• So basically i just need to see if i can get my record printed out . So i can take it to the recruiter .

  Comment by Dson — August 31, 2009 @ 4:19 pm

• Hello there,i have been really thinking about joining but my question is i know it is always more favorable and possibly a must to have a high school diploma or even GED but thought i would ask anyhow,is it a must to have graduated high school to get in the navy?

  Another question if i were to get in what are the chances of being sent to war? and what type of warfare would it be,mostly aboard a ship? I am really interested in helping out over there.

  Comment by Don — September 1, 2009 @ 2:21 am

• Don, Where some Navy jobs require a high school diploma or equivalent, it is possible to get into the Navy without a HS diploma or GED. You must score well on the ASVAB test – see your local Recruiter for details.

  We currently are a country at war – everyone serving our country has a “chance” of serving in the war zone. The platform you serve on, ship, aircraft, land base, submarine, etc., will be determined by your job and the needs of the Navy.

  Comment by NCCM(ret) — September 1, 2009 @ 2:44 pm

• Does anyone have any information on the navy reserves aia or apg programs. I am really considering joining the reserves. I am 31 with a good job and a family and am looking to minimize the time away from my good paying job.

  Thanks,

  ewj

  Comment by ewj — September 9, 2009 @ 2:04 pm

• Ret. STG1(SW) here, doing my part to talk up the Navy to all young people who have serious questions about joining. What’s your opinion on the supposed lenghtened wait-times for delayed entry over the last year and a half? Has the economic downturn had a negative affect, and are requirements more strict WRT to ASVAB scores, and legal problems prospective recruits may have? V/R

  Comment by Russ — September 10, 2009 @ 10:27 pm

• STG1(SW),

  The wait times are a result of there being a finite number of boot-camp/school seats available during a fiscal year. The Navy end-strength projection is a determining factor.

  The Navy has been doing very well in Recruiting due to a number of factors which include the current state of the economy, but also factors such as increased public awareness of Navy programs and the fact the Navy has been working very hard to be recognized as a top 50 employer. Rating mergers, adjustments in sea-shore rotations, focus on the families and educational priorities are doing great things to encourage a large number our nation’s young people to at least look at the Navy as an option whereas is years past they would not.

  Comment by NCCM(ret) — September 10, 2009 @ 11:08 pm

• My son wants to enlist. He had a mole removed 20 yrs. ago. The dermatologist’s Office manager searching whether records exist. Insurance no longer has the record. If Office Manager is unsuccessful, what can be done. It was healthy.

  Comment by Helen Wright — October 12, 2009 @ 3:13 pm

• Helen Wright,

  Each MEPS can be a little different, but most likely what you will need is a letter from the Dermatologist’s office stating that the records have been misplaced or destroyed. Also, a letter from the family doctor stating, to the effect, that no treatment for mole related issues have ever been initiated wouldn’t be a bad idea either.

  Comment by NCCM(ret) — October 12, 2009 @ 5:10 pm

• Hello I am 19 years old and reciently joined the Navy and I am in the Delayed Entry Program. I have also reciently gotten married. Several times while I’ve been in my local recruiting office, some of the recruiters there warn me not to get my wife pregnant. I have 8 months until I ship and I am worried what will happen to my prspective Navy career if I get my wife pregnate. I see that I can have one dependant and I wonder what I would have to do if my wife became pregnate and what my best course of action would be for my wife and I. I am 100% devoted to both my Wife and the Navy and I would be devistated if a conflict came between the two came up. Any information on this situation would be appricated.

  Comment by Dusty — November 8, 2009 @ 11:18 pm

• Dusty,
  I also suggest you hold off on having a child until you are in the Navy and settled. Waiting until your finances are in order would be the best, mature decision in my opinion.

  Also, having a child (or wife, even girlfriend who becomes pregnant) while in DEP will require you to complete an eligibility (dependency) waiver for enlistment.

  Comment by NCCM(ret) — November 10, 2009 @ 11:44 am

• So here is one for you. I was in the navy active duty from 1995-1999. Got out, RE-R1. Joined the Army in 2000. Will ETS (EOS) in nov 2010. I am looking at going back to the Navy active duty to finish out my 20, or more. I assume this will be an availible billet question, but what are the odds i could be accepted back in? I will be 35 when i am released from the Army.

  Comment by kb — December 2, 2009 @ 3:05 pm

• KB,
  You are right, it will depend on the billets available according to the rating’s community manager you will be applying for, and at what pay-grade. I do know prior service billets are hard to come by – check with the local Navy Recruiter when you get closer to your date (it is in the next FY and final end strength numbers/requirements for FY 2011 won’t be figured until that budget is released/signed.) Your age will not be an issue.

  Comment by NCCM(ret) — December 2, 2009 @ 8:44 pm

• Thanks for your reply Master Chief. I do appreciate the help.
  regards, GM2(SW), SSG B

  Comment by kb — December 4, 2009 @ 8:11 pm

• i am a permanent resident 22 years old with highschool diploma i pass my asvab test with a good persetage but, i have heavy accent du-to english is my second language so do you think i will be eligible to join the Navy?

  Comment by abrh — December 5, 2009 @ 4:56 am

• Abrh,

  As long as you are otherwise qualified, and you can demonstrate to the MEPS that you can verbally communicate utilizing English, you should have no problem joining the Navy. MEPS personnel will ask you some questions to ensure you have an adequate understanding if they think their may be an issue, but a heavy accent should not preclude you for joining. If that were the case, people from Boston could never get in

  Comment by NCCM(ret) — December 5, 2009 @ 10:36 am

• I have a tough question for you. I keep getting bounced from recruiter to recruiter and have been for a year so far. I joined the Navy Reserve in 2003 under the APG program. I had 1 year to complete 15 days of boot camp. I never got there due to my weight. Now I have lost it and want to join (prefer Active Duty). The recruiters are not sure how to classify me. I drilled for 1 year, but never went to boot camp. Do I qualify as prior service, or non-prior service? I have attempted to find out from several recruiters and have driven as far as 3 hours away only to be told they do not know. Any help would be appreciated. Thanks

  Comment by Amy — January 5, 2010 @ 4:27 pm

• Amy,
  You are considered non-prior service as you do not have the required consecutive active duty service days. You will require a release (DD-368) from the reserve unit in order to process for active duty; your recruiter would need to accomplish this. Good luck!

  Comment by NCCM(ret) — January 9, 2010 @ 1:19 pm

• I am an intelligent man(now 26),and would excel in the Navy and score high on any test. In High School I aced my Sat’s, and I have completed nearly 100 credit hours at my university with a high G.P.A. Also I am in great physical condition. However, while I have never had a felony; over five years ago I was arrested for class a burglary of a motor vehicle and trespassing in the same year. I plead guilty and spent a few days in county jail. I have led a good life since then as I have matured.
  What are my chances of joining?

  Comment by Nathan — January 10, 2010 @ 5:05 am

• Nathan,
  The devil is in the details. The Navy will not only consider the crimes, but will also consider the positive things you have accomplished. You should be fine, but you will be limited to jobs that do not require an extensive security clearance. Be truthful with the recruiter and demonstrate that you have excepted responsibility for your prior indiscretions (I always had problems hearing people say things like; “It was my friends fault… The cops arrested all of us, but blah blah blah…” —Man-up!).

  Comment by NCCM(ret) — January 10, 2010 @ 8:19 am

• Hi I just took the asvab test and made a 34 I was going for the army but I want to do the navy. Can I join with a 34 on the asvab test?

  Comment by teshauna — January 12, 2010 @ 9:01 pm

• Current Navy minimum AFQT score for enlistment of non-prior service (NPS) applicants is 35.

  Comment by NCCM(ret) — January 12, 2010 @ 9:10 pm

• I am 26 years old and really want to enlist in the active Navy. I am a little worried about my credit. The only thing that messed my credit up was having my car reposessed which I owed like $7,000 on. Would this disqualify me from enlisting?

  Comment by Daniel — January 13, 2010 @ 7:28 pm

• Daniel,
  Bad credit is not a dis-qualifier by itself. If you have dependents, your finances and ability to pay your bills will be considered heavily. Bad credit may also restrict the jobs you may qualify for (security clearance jobs will be difficult to get).

  Comment by NCCM(ret) — January 13, 2010 @ 11:51 pm

• I have a hard one for you. I have a pacemaker. I have spoken to recruiters and they disqualified me based off of the false pretenses of me being on medication. I have never been on medication in my life, I have told the recruiters this. I have been told from someone who is an active duty sailor that all i need is a waiver. So I asked my cardiologist to write me a waive stating that I have no physical restriction and he had no reason to doubt I would get accepted. I just keep running into recruiters who think I take medication. I took the ASVAB and got a 86. I a U.S born citizen with weight and height requirements. Im at a loss because I have a waiver and no one is giving me the time of day. I need incite on the matter.

  Comment by James — January 15, 2010 @ 4:42 pm

• James,
  Your disqualification isn’t due to medication – it is because you have a condition that requires you to wear a pacemaker. There is no waiver authorized for those wearing a pacemaker.

  Comment by NCCM(ret) — January 15, 2010 @ 6:00 pm

• my husband got high score in ASVAB and passed the medical already. He’s on the process of submitting his forms but hesitant because we have low credit score right now and behind on payments due to hardship. is it gonna be a big factor on your decision to enter the navy? he wants it.

  Comment by RHODA — January 16, 2010 @ 2:07 am

• Rhoda,
  He will fill out a financial statement to determine the ratio of your payments to your projected income while in the Navy – that ratio, among other factors, will be used to determine eligibility. I recommend he continue the process – even if he is found not eligible at this time, ya’ll can get an idea of what has to be done to get qualified.

  Comment by NCCM(ret) — January 16, 2010 @ 5:26 am

• Hello, I’m 24 years old with a Bachelor’s college degree, and have scored an 84 on the EST…however, I’ve made silly mistakes in the past, as far as simple possession of marijuana (although the arrest report never stated actual marijuana found) and petty theft (served probation, which I completed)..these charges are now dismissed due to the fact that I went under the diversion program and I currently have no ties with the court system …what is the chance of enlisting into the Navy and any chance for OCS possibilities?

  Comment by Lazarus — January 21, 2010 @ 12:43 am

• I am looking to join the navy. When I was 18 I went in to the army at the pushing of my family. I did not want to be there and dropped out after 3 weeks. 11 years later I have decided Navy could be a good option for me. From my understanding I will need 2 wavers. One I have a wife and 2 children. I have a solid credit score and only debt is 1 credit card for about 1k and we recently bought a car. Also my code for leaving the army was a 3. My understanding is it was listed as failure to adapt. I have spoken to the recruiter and he tells me he can’t say if I will be able to get the wavers or give me any idea how good my chances are at getting in. Any idea if I have a decent chance at getting in. I need to lose like 30 pounds before I can go down to process. I know that seems like a lot but I have all ready lost about 26 pounds. I would just hate to do all this work and be told I have no chance.

  Comment by tadaka — January 21, 2010 @ 1:28 am

• Tadaka,
  You are within waiverable limits based on what you describe. Lose the weight and give it a shot; worst case, you would have lost the weight.

  Comment by NCCM(ret) — January 21, 2010 @ 9:35 am

• Lazarus,
  For the purposes of enlistment, if your charges are disposed with ANY condition, it will be considered a guilty finding and will be subject to, if otherwise qualified/required, a waiver by the proper approval authority. Example – even if a prosecutor tells you your charges will be dropped if you write a “letter of apology”, the condition requirement of having to write the letter is considered an adverse adjudication and will require a waiver. All the facts of your cases will be considered during the process – the best advice I can give you today, added to the advice I gave you back in July, is to fully accept responsibility for your actions and get the process started. Based on what you tell me, you are waiverable for enlistment provided all your probation periods are completed satisfactorily; I do not think OCS would be an option for you, but check with an officer recruiter for a definitive answer.

  Comment by NCCM(ret) — January 21, 2010 @ 9:56 am

• I HAVE BEEN ARRESTED A COUPLE OF TIMES ALL FELONY’S BUT ALL CHARGES WERE DISMISSED AND I HAVE NEVER BEEN CONVICTED,CAN I JOIN THE NAVY I’VE ALWAYS WANTED TO JOIN SINCE I WAS LITTLE IS THAT STILL POSSIBLE I AM NOW 26 YRS OLD?

  Comment by MICHAEL — January 21, 2010 @ 9:50 pm

• Michael,
  If your charges were dismissed, but you were given probation, a fine, had to write a letter of apology, or even told to hold your breath for 35 seconds to have the charges dismissed, then in the eyes of the Navy – you are still guilty and would require a waiver. You are not too old to join (you have until your 35th birthday to join the active duty Navy), but I think you may be disqualified because of your charges (I have never seen a case where a person has “been arrested a couple of times, all felonies,” and remained qualified for the Navy) – call your local Recruiter and give him the specific details.

  Comment by NCCM(ret) — January 22, 2010 @ 8:32 am

• I am 35 years old. I have 2 DUI’s. I am finishing up on the second but still have 2 1/2 years of probation left. I talked to navy recruiters last year and was told to get the probation dropped. I asked the courts but they denied it. I have 5 more month’s left to finish my treatment program, at which time I would like to ask the courts to drop my probation so I can join the Navy. After completing my treatment program how do i go about getting the informal probation dropped so I can join?

  Comment by SAM — January 27, 2010 @ 12:40 am

• Sam,
  You had to join and get to boot camp prior to your 35th birthday. You are now too old to join active duty Navy.

  Comment by NCCM(ret) — January 27, 2010 @ 6:41 am

• Hi NCCM i’m prior service navy active duty.I got out with a RE1 (HD) from the navy joined then went reserves got out with a RE 4 but joined the national guard ive been in now for near two years next month but the navy is tell me i cant join because i got out i had my chance plus im now married with two kids and they said no what is the reason they wont let me in

  Comment by Luis — January 27, 2010 @ 8:33 pm

• Luis,
  Waivers for RE-4 reenlistment codes are not authorized and will not be considered by the Navy. http://www.navycs.com/military-re-codes.html

  Comment by NCCM(ret) — January 28, 2010 @ 7:56 am

• hello! i really want to join the navy but i’m wondring if i still could cuz i had a 4th misdemeanor case being dismissed and never been charged at all, please help me, will i still be able to join the navy?
  thankS!

  Comment by angel — February 3, 2010 @ 9:48 pm

• Angel,

  You need a recruiter to review your actual police records to evaluate each charge and disposition.

  Comment by NCCM(ret) — February 4, 2010 @ 7:31 am

• I have some questions about being a non-citizen and joining the Navy. I have been researching but I get mixed answers. I have been in the US since August of 2004 as a student. I completed a Bachelor’s degree in 2008 and I am currently working legally as a Non-Resident Alien. I have an EAD card and US SSN but not a green card. Can I join the Navy?

  Comment by PetraPantra — February 4, 2010 @ 4:11 pm

• You must have a USCIS I-551 (Permanent Residence Card) for enlistment.

  Comment by NCCM(ret) — February 4, 2010 @ 4:27 pm

• Hi, my name is Anthony. I’m 23 years old college student pursuing an AA degree (I have 28 college credits at the moment). I recently moved to another city and I’ve been having financial issues and its making my college life terrible. I also have a sister who I look after because shes always in trouble. At the moment, I feel like my life is not going anywhere and I want a life challenge and an adventure. I’ve thought about enlisting in the NAVY since I was 20. I really want to enlist but my age tells me I should get my bachelors and join the NAVY as an officer. If I enlist, I’ll get out by the time I’m 27 or 28. If I go to college after the enlistment for my 4 yr degree, Ill be 30-32 and have my financial situation a little more at ease with the GI Bill and other benefits. I’m mentally ready to enlist but I just need to hear some opinions….

  Comment by Anthony — February 5, 2010 @ 4:56 am

• Anthony,
  You do have a lot to consider.
  First, you cannot join the active Navy as a single parent/guardian (with physical custody; shared or sole).

  The officer route; you would need at least a 3.0 GPA in challenging discipline to be competitive. Just having the BS/BA isn’t going to get it. You will also be approaching the upper limits of age for some programs by the time you do graduate. Call an Officer Recruiter and answer his questions so he can provide you with an outline that would suit your circumstance more clearly than I would be able to provide in this forum.

  The enlisted route; 30-32 years old is still young from a whole life perspective; moreover, your resume will be much more competitive than those coming right out of college without the military experience.

  Comment by NCCM(ret) — February 5, 2010 @ 9:41 am

• Hi-

  I am 24 and I’m in my junior year of college for international business. I have a good GPA, and I’m in awesome shape (gym everyday, run under 5 minute mile, excellent swimmer etc). I have a clean record, however I’m technically color blind (although I fail the tests, I can still see and distinguish colors fine). I also have a sleeve tattoo (all traditional sailor tattoos, nothing offensive). First, I wanted to know if I would even qualify for the officer program when I graduate. If not, I would still be happy to enlist, but I would still like to know if the color blind/tattoo issues would be a factor for enlisting.

  Thanks

  Comment by mike — February 20, 2010 @ 3:46 pm

• Mike,

  I sent you an email, not sure you received it, that states the following;
  Being color blind will not keep you from enlisting in the Navy (it will limit the jobs you are qualified for) – the sleeve tat should not either, as long as it is not on the hand or neck; however, those issues may very well disqualify you for a commission as an officer. My expertise is with enlisting, I have very little experience with commissioning. So, I HIGHLY recommend that you seek out an officer recruiter at the soonest because educationally, you are in the window – you may even qualify for BDCP (pays for the rest of your college).

  I have since found that there are a few commissioning programs/designators that a lack of color vision will not disqualify you. A couple of them are Public Affairs Officer, Information Warfare Officer, and even Aerospace Maintenance Duty Officer.

  Comment by NCCM(ret) — February 21, 2010 @ 9:35 am

• Hey NCCM(ret), thanks for the response. I’m currently a couple credits away from achieving my transfer degree/associate degree in business administration from a community college. I did some research about people enlisting with an AA degree and turns out I can possibly enlist as a E-3 but I wonder if GPA matters..That will be one of my questions when I go see a Navy recruiter. Please let me know if you have the answer to my question.

  The other day I realized I’ve always wanted to be in the Navy since I was a little boy living in Japan visiting US bases every summer (Sasebo, Yokota, Yokosuka, Zama). My mom couldnt afford a flight ticket to visit the US so she used to take me to these bases to get a little taste of America. I am motivated and mentally ready to serve now. I’m hoping that I can serve and get my bachelors during my enlistment and become a Navy officer in a few years. I plan on visiting a recruiter soon. Please let me know if you have any advice for me.

  - Anthony

  Comment by Anthony — February 24, 2010 @ 2:08 am

• Anthony,

  As per the information on this page – http://www.navycs.com/navy-advanced-paygrade.html it takes 48 semester hours or 72 quarter hours of college credits to be enlisted into paygrade E-3. The classes must be 100 level or higher (cannot be remedial) for them to count – GPA isn’t considered – if the institution issued the credits, they count.

  Comment by NCCM(ret) — February 24, 2010 @ 6:19 am

• My 30 year old husband is interested in joining the navy. We have no children together, but we each have one child from previous relationships. My son will be a dependent of his, but my husband does not have physical custody of his son. Will we still consider his son a dependent? Will the navy grant us a waiver for me and my son?

  We are from Guam. How long after my husband successfully completes the ASVAB and signs the dotted line can we expect him to go onto Navy RTC? Thank you in advance!

  Comment by Jack — March 4, 2010 @ 12:21 pm

• Jac,
  Yes, both sons will count as dependents for enlistment purposes. A waiver will depend on your current financial status. If he his fully qualified and is granted the waiver, the when he leaves for boot-camp will be based on when boot camp vacancies are available for the job he joins for.

  Comment by NCCM(ret) — March 4, 2010 @ 3:38 pm

• I graduated from college in December and am looking at joining the navy. I was looking at possibly going in as an officer, but last year around May I was convicted for shoplifting a $20 item, I received a suspended imposition of sentence, which means as long as I don’t have any other offenses for 2 years it will never really show up. I know the navy is only concerned with the fact that I was convicted, but would it stop me from going in as an officer?

  Comment by Dan — March 5, 2010 @ 3:10 pm

• Dan,
  With a criminal record, your chances of receiving a commission would be pretty slim unless you are an otherwise very exceptional candidate.

  For everyone’s notes:
  All charges, even if they are sealed by the court, will show up during your background investigations for the military.

  Comment by NCCM(ret) — March 6, 2010 @ 1:49 pm

• I’m a green card holder and i scored 21 in the ASVAB and i speak another lagauage beside the English which its my mother language the arabic. i really like to join this program because i meet all the requirements that this program needs but whenever i contact a navy recruiter they say that i am not eligible for it because of the ASVAB score and because im not US citizen, but the website here say something different , so i need a recruiter who has a wide knowledge about this program so we can help each other.

  Comment by Eseer — March 8, 2010 @ 11:59 am

• Eseer,
  Having a minimum 21 on the ASVAB does not mean that you are line score eligible for jobs that are currently available for enlistment – I doubt with that score, you will qualify for any currently available jobs.

  That said, if I were you, I would ask your Recruiter about this specific program (HLRP) – more specifically, the information on page 1 of Chapter 3, Section 2 of the Recruiting manual.

  Comment by NCCM(ret) — March 8, 2010 @ 1:28 pm

• hi i am currently 21, dropped out of high school when i was 18. i was arrested twice for 2 felony charges, 1 b felony for attempted robbery and another d felony for counterfeit items. both were dropped to misdemeanors. i do not have a ged. i am wondering what my chances are of getting into the navy right now.

  Comment by john — March 15, 2010 @ 8:01 am

• John,

  Your chances are not very good because you didn’t graduate high school – the Navy only accepts about 5-8% non-high school grads (including those with home school and GED) per year; the military total is capped at 10%, and also, you have two charges that reduce even further your odds.

  Comment by NCCM(ret) — March 15, 2010 @ 6:48 pm

• Just a minor update only 16 pounds left to go and got a 96 on the asvab. Should find out if I can get in soon thanks again for the info.

  Comment by tadaka — March 15, 2010 @ 11:47 pm

• they were dropped to misdemeanors though, or does that not matter?

  Comment by john — March 17, 2010 @ 12:19 pm

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