United States Navy Enlistment Eligibility

Basic Requirements for Navy Enlistment

August 3rd, 2008

People wanting to enlist in the United States Navy must meet specific eligibility requirements to be considered qualified. The following information is segmented into the various types of things that are required, and each of those paragraphs have links to the specific pages that may answer your questions – also try the search function, as there are a few hundred pages of information regarding enlistment eligibility available, not to mention the 1000′s of informative comments. Please ask any questions you may have from the most appropriate page, or use the contact form to communicate via email (here). Thank you!

So, first lets talk about how old you have to be to join the Navy. The days of being 15 years old and lying about your age to get in are long gone. You have to be at least 17 years of age (17 with parents signed permission that is) and not older than 34 (if you have reached your 35th birthday, your ship has sailed as it were) for service in the active Navy, you can be anywhere from 18-39 years of age for service in the Navy Reserve. If you want to be a Sailor in the Full Time Support, New Accession Training and National Call to Service programs you can be anywhere from 17-39 years old (again, 17 yr olds must have parents written permission, unless you’ve been emancipated…).

Update as of April 13, 2011: 17 year old applicants may enlist into the Delayed Entry Program but may not ship prior to their 18th birthday, unless their 18th birthday will occur no later than 60 days from date of shipping. All other notes regarding enlistment of 17 year old applicants still apply.

You need to be a United States citizen, permanent resident alien, or U.S. non-citizen national and possess a Social Security Card. You can’t join if we can’t tax ya! (Detailed citizenship requirements)

Must be a High School Diploma Graduate (DoD Tier I) and score at least a 35QT the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB). If you don’t have an approved high school diploma, a Tier II credential like the GED, you must score a minimum ASVAB score of 50 – the seats available for Tier II are very limited. English doesn’t have to be your first language, but you must be proficient in reading, speaking, writing, and understanding English to enlist.

You can have no more than one dependent although dependency waivers may be granted if you have more dependents if you can prove that you are a financially responsible human being. Note: If you’re single you must not have physical custody of a dependent if you are processing for enlistment in the active Navy.

You must pass a physical examination. This isn’t your every day physical and it must be completed by a doctor at the Military Entrance Processing Station (good ol’ MEPS). You must be within the Navy height and weight standards. The physical not only checks your current status but reviews your past medical history as some ailments can cause long term issues that you may not feel any effects from today. Some disqualifying medical conditions can be waivered and some are normally disqualifying altogether.

You can not be under civil restraint to include, but not limited to, probation or incarceration nor have a pattern of minor convictions or any non-minor misdemeanor or felony convictions; although, Waivers may be granted depending on number and severity – your personal conduct and accomplishments are just a couple of the factors used to determine your waiver (remember: if you get to the point where a waiver interview will be conducted, be respectful and polite!). Special circumstances for domestic violence charges and convictions.

You can not be a substance abuser to include prescription drugs, alcohol, and/or illegal drugs. The Navy has a zero tolerance when it comes to drug usage, it is a ONE strike and you’re OUT.

A 6 minute video that describes a regular visit to MEPS – your individual experience may vary depending on the need for medical consultations and the processing of any waivers that may be required.

Keep in mind this post is very general and is intended to give you a basic overview of enlistment requirements. Make sure you discuss any and all information with your Recruiter and ensure ultimately the information is documented in your enlistment application.


Read Comments (805)

More Interesting Posts

RSS feed for comments on this post.

805 Responses to “Basic Requirements for Navy Enlistment”


  1. NCCM(ret) says:

    Rach,

    This question would be better asked on one of the medical waiver pages, a MEPS doctor has been graciously answering questions there – there are a couple of links in the post, like http://www.navycs.com/blogs/2008/08/14/medical-waiver-authorized and http://www.navycs.com/blogs/2008/08/13/medical-not-waiverable

    Yes, you would need to be off the medications and stable for an extended period of time, because of the number of diagnosis I would think everything would hinge on the documentation itself combined with, if approved for further processing, the psychiatric consultation the MEPS would provide.

  2. Klen says:

    My recruiter called me yesterday and I got job. I will be sworn in Monday

  3. NCCM(ret) says:

    Klen,

    I never had a doubt; Congratulations!

  4. Gus says:

    Hi, back in nov 08 I enlisted in the army but was was later discharged for medical purposes. Re entry code is a 3, I was told then I would have to wait two years again to re enlist and will require a medical waiver, but lately I’ve been hearing the military is too over manned and are not currently taking any body who needs a medical waiver. Is this true? or do I still have a chance? My goal is now to become a Navy Corpsman. Any info would greatly appreciated.Thanks.

  5. NCCM(ret) says:

    Gus,

    A lot of factors come into play with your eligibility. Some medical conditions can not be waived; your medical records would need to be sent to the MEPS via your recruiter for review – the review will in fact disqualify you, but it is then that you will find out if your condition can receive a waiver; secondly, your RE-Code matters, if you have an RE-3C from the Army, you are not eligible – here is the chart – http://www.navycs.com/military-re-codes.html

  6. Jared says:

    NCCM,

    I am 36 years old with 4 years prior Navy enlistment from 93-97. I was honorably discharged at that time as a DC3. Since then I have received my Bachelors in Finance. I have no criminal background and am looking into becoming a Supply Officer, active duty. The only negative with my situation is that I had a BK7 that discharged a year ago. I also have no dependents and meet all physical requirements for the military. Is it possible to receive an age waiver to become an officer in this program active duty?

  7. NCCM(ret) says:

    Jared,

    You would not require an age waiver because your 4 years prior service makes you look 32 for accession/commissioning purposes; however, the designator may have other specific age requirements – should not be the case for Supply, as far as I know.

  8. Seneca Collins says:

    Im looking to join the navy. I have a criminal history, but it ten years old. I’ve served my time for my crime and suffered the punishment. So am able to loin the Navy with my criminal pass.

  9. NCCM(ret) says:

    Seneca,

    Everything depends on the number and type of charges. Follow the link in the post that refers to criminal/moral waivers for more information.

  10. Mike H says:

    Master Chief, I am a former U.S. MARINE looking to go Navy Reserve. I have a 50 % disabilty rating from the VA for a 5 different conditions at 10 percent each(not a PEB from the Marine Corps.) I have an RE-1A from the Corps. I am now 32 years old and got out in 2003. I am married with two children. Is there any possibilty of getting back in? My Marine Corps MOS is directly compatible with Navy rate. No criminal record. I have heard from other service members that they have a similar disability rating from other services and they get a pro-rated paycheck. Can you offer any advice?

    Thank you- Mike

  11. NCCM(ret) says:

    Mike H.

    You would have to be cleared and waived for each of the medical issues that you are considered disabled for, then sign a document that would stop all your VA payments. I have never heard of the pro-rated paycheck unless you are in a retired/Fleet-Reserve status (drawing retired pay with a disability rating of less than 50% without concurrent receipt).

  12. tim says:

    i am very intrested in joining the navy. my problem is within a span of 5 years i’ve had 3 DUI’s two of which were dismissed by the judge and the court and one which i was formally chrged but i paid all my fines and finished my requirments. how slim are my chances?

  13. NCCM(ret) says:

    Tim,

    If two of the three DUIs were dropped without you having to complete ANY conditions, like classes, fines, probation – and they were not dropped to a lessor charge like careless driving, etc. – then you may receive consideration for the single charge, but otherwise, you are disqualified.

  14. ebony says:

    is Irritable Bowel Syndrome a dis qualifier?

  15. nunci says:

    i am very interested in the military. i have talked to a navy recruiter and got a 94 on the practice asvab and then a 97 on the actual. im 24 yrs old with an AS degree in criminal justice. i also have 2 children. i was in the process of joining but for some reason the recruiter stopped contacting me. i’ve never been in any legal trouble and background is clean. some people tell me i should try the army because they would show more interest and appreciate me more because of my brain. are there any reasons the navy would be better for me than the army?

  16. NCCM(ret) says:

    Nunci,

    If you are married with 2 minor children, you would require a waiver from the Commander, Navy Recruiting Command – if you are not married and have custody of two minor children, you are not eligible for active duty. See the link for dependency waivers in the post. What service you chose is up to you – they all offer a great experience and challenge.

  17. NCCM(ret) says:

    Ebony,

    I suggest you ask this in the medical waiver section and have the NavyDoc answer it.

  18. Jim says:

    Master Chief,

    I recently graduated college this past May with two Bachelor’s degrees and just started my first year of law school as a full-time day student. I am interested in pursuing a career in the Naval Reserve an as officer. However, I went to the doctor about two and a half years ago when I was having a bit of a rough patch in college and got a prescription for an anti-depressant, which I took for about 7 months. At the end of that 7 month period, myself and my doctor agreed that I no longer needed that prescription and he removed me from the medication. It has been well over a year since I have been on that medication. Since then, I have been back to my doctor and he has said that everything is great. There are no similar incidents in my medical history. Would that be a disqualifying medical condition?

  19. NCCM(ret) says:

    Jim,

    It is a disqualifying condition, but it can receive waiver consideration depending on the severity and treatment. Your recruiter would need to submit your documents for review.

  20. Lynne says:

    Sir,
    I’m a 37 year old mother of two with an AS as well as BA and I am interested in joining the Naval Reserves. I have already spoken with a recruiter, however he was not able to answer several questions for me, I was hoping that you may be able to shed some light for me. I will obviously be on the older end of those with me in boot camp, but is there any likely hood that there would be others? I’m interested in serving my country and having a career as a reservist?
    Thoughts?

  21. NCCM(ret) says:

    Lynne,

    It would be likely that there are not more than a couple of others in your boot-camp company older than 30 years, but expect your RDCs to use your life experience and put you in charge of something!

  22. elodie says:

    Hello,
    I would like to join the Navy as an officer. I have a master’s degree (4.0 GPA),six years work experience (aviation ops), speak fluent French and I am 31 years old.
    Am i too old ?
    Thanks

  23. NCCM(ret) says:

    Elodie,

    For some designators, you have exceeded the maximum age requirement, but for others, like Intel, you remain competitive.

  24. Alexis Perez says:

    I will be 30 yrs old when I graduate with my BA in Nursing. I am married and have 3 children. I also have a non explicit/non vulgar tattoo sleeve. I have no criminal record but when the housing market crashed and the economy we filed bankrupt in 2008. Can I join? What are my chances of becoming an Officer?
    Thank you!

  25. NCCM(ret) says:

    Alexis,

    If you are in or entering your final year of college, contact your local medical officer recruiter. If you can not locate the contact information, email me via the “contact me” link in the sidebar.

  26. Alexis Perez says:

    Thank you NCCM I am entering my second to last year. As soon as I enter my final year, I will contact you immediately. Again thank you.

  27. Chrys says:

    I was honorably discharged under general conditions in 2008. I was never given a DD214, only a certified letter that stated I was discharged. I have tried to reenlist but the no recruiter can find any record of my service or an RE code. Where do I go from here?

  28. NCCM(ret) says:

    Chrys,

    I assume you mean a General discharge under honorable conditions. Due to the type of discharge, you would not be eligible for reenlistment.

  29. kims says:

    I have really bad teeth, will that make me ineligible to join the navy?

  30. NCCM(ret) says:

    Kims,

    Eight or more grossly cavitated and/or carious teeth would be disqualifying until corrected.

  31. elodie says:

    Hello,

    I am following up on my previous posting (number 572)…
    I called a recruiter today. I obtained my master’s degree in France so I dont qualify to become an officer. No foreign degree. it’s a huge disapointment for me. I think i am too old (31) to have any chance to become an officer if I join as an enlisted. What should i do?

  32. dawntay says:

    Hello Im very interested in joining the navy, but I have two prior DUI’s. i was wondering if i could still get in and if there was any waivers that could get me in. I completed everything the courts asked me to do and paid the fines. I also got an early release from the probation they put me on. i have learned from my mistakes and im just trying to move forward with my life now, u know.

  33. NCCM(ret) says:

    Dawntay,

    Two DUIs requires an alcohol waiver from Commander, Navy Recruiting Command; currently, such waivers are not being entertained at that level of authority.

  34. armybrat says:

    Im going through a dui case my first one and i wanted to know if I would be qualified or how long do i have to wait

  35. NCCM(ret) says:

    Armybrat,

    One year minimum wait time before you would be eligible for waiver consideration. http://www.navycs.com/blogs/2008/09/05/behind-the-wheel

  36. Merin says:

    My fiance is 25 years old with a Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice and is very interested in going to straight to OCS. His GPA was never great (2.8 I believe). He is in great physical condition with no criminal record whatsoever but is worried about being accepted because of his low GPA. Is this something we should worry about and what can we do to give him the best possible chance of being accepted to OCS despite this? Would he have a better chance enlisting and trying to apply for OCS down the line?

    We are also worried that my personal bad credit could be a problem when we are married. Will my past bad credit mess up his chances? Should we wait to be married until after he has completed the OCS program, if he is accepted? I don’t want my past mistakes to affect him in any negative way.

  37. NCCM(ret) says:

    Merin,

    His GPA will be an issue, but could be overcome if he can detail the extracurricular activities he did while in school, club membership – sports participation that he held leadership positions in, etc. Your past credit will not affect him unless you bring an amount of bills into the marriage that would bring the debt to income ratio into question for a required security clearance. Remember, once married, your bills become his responsibility as much as yours. Have him seek out an Officer Recruiter – the Recruiter will be able to tell him if pursuing enlisted programs is best for his circumstance.

  38. Merin says:

    Thanks so much for your quick response. We are impatiently waiting for the Officer Recruiter to call us back so you’ve been a big help so far. With the GPA issue we were thinking maybe he could enlist and try to apply for OCS down the line. Is this common?

    He is aiming toward MP, so I’m afraid my past will have a negative affect on him even though it was all from several years before I met him. I am hoping credit repair can fix this, as well as keeping our accounts separate and having no joint accounts, so as to keep our credit separate all together.

    I can’t thank you enough for your help. As you can imagine it’s difficult having so many questions and playing the waiting game!

  39. john epperson says:

    I was in the navy seabees but received a OTH discharge for a pattern of misconduct that resulted in a RE-4 re-entry code. I am wanting to get back in and become a NAVY seal. I have tried a couple of times to get back into the service but they said no because of the RE-4, is there any kind of waiver I can get to get me back in?

  40. NCCM(ret) says:

    John,

    There is no waiver authorized for the Other than Honorable discharge nor the RE-4 code for the pattern of misconduct.

  41. NCCM(ret) says:

    Merin,

    It is common that people join with degrees; however, it is not common that they get picked up for OCS unless they are doing an exceptional job as an enlisted member. Don’t enlist with the belief it will happen, enlist because you want to serve and if it does happen, bonus.

  42. Anthony says:

    Does having 2 marajuana possesion tickets disqualify me from becoming a corpsman?

  43. NCCM(ret) says:

    Anthony,

    Yes.

  44. Anthony says:

    Is there anyway I can get a waiver or perhaps a waiting period that change this?

  45. Anthony says:

    In other words is there anyway someone with 2 marajuana possesions tickets can become a corpsman? Any special waivers? Any waiting periods? Or prehaps a high asvab score of 91?

  46. NCCM(ret) says:

    Anthony,

    There is no waiver authorized for the HM rating even for a single charge of possession of marijuana.

  47. chad says:

    Will having surgery on my stomach 10 years ago for my appendix prevent me from joining the navy. When they did the surgery the found a mass of crohns . I was never diagnosed for crohns and never had to take meds or anything and I recently went for a check up and they said I was perfectly fine.. opinions please

  48. Leon price says:

    Hi I’m 31 years of age and and from the uk a have had army cadet training and was a master cadet marksman always wanted to join the army but now after growing uP I work as a singer and rescue diver after seeing on you tune the combat divers corse I know know what I want to do I want to join the navy but not the uk . Can I and could I be a diver? Please help

  49. NCCM(ret) says:

    Leon,

    You have to be 30 years of age or less and a US citizen to apply to be a Navy Diver.

  50. Monique says:

    Hi,
    Im 30 yrs old. I’m 5′ 0 and I’m looking into joining. I’m very good in technology stuff and I’m very detail oriented. I have always wanted to join but family issues and stepping to the.plate to.help them has stopped me.

    I want to join but not sure if I can make a career out of it. I don’t know what to expect from basic training… I don’t know.how to swim and I wear glaseses.
    I am very independent and I like a challenge. I been working in a warehouse learn to drive a forklift and learn the job very well without having no experience.
    I just want to know if I can join and if I would be a good fit… And what to expect if I do join in….

    Thanks

  51. NCCM(ret) says:

    Monique,

    Knowing how to swim is not a requirement – while in boot-camp you will be taught basic swimming and survival skills. I suggest you contact you local recruiter and make an appointment.

  52. jm says:

    Hi Mike,

    I am a 29 year old female college graduate, liberal studies & philosophy gpa 3.7, hoping to join the navy as a direct commission officer for foreign area officer, I have lived in China for 3 years (as a teacher) and speak conversational Chinese, which is the reasoning for applying as foreign area officer, but would certainly consider crypto or human resources officer.
    I joined the Navy at 18, for my family not for myself; and realized it was a mistake at boot camp. I purposely had myself thrown out. They made it very difficult, more so than normally as my father was an LCDR. The only way I could get out was a counselors recommendation and alot of lying about my general impression of the Navy, point being that she put me down as a personality disorder, which I believe normally disqualifies for reenlistment.
    I was originally supposed to be a cryptotech. I scored very well on my ASVAB, top 90% in all but mechanical categories. I believe I bring a special advanced ability to reason and knowledge of dialectics and chinese politics that the Navy would value.
    I am willing to have a physician certify me in good mental health, even the same physician if she is still practicing.
    I am hoping my family history of service will work in my favor (mother a corpsman, father an officer, grandfather navy and army, grandmother a WAC, aunt airforce, other aunt airforce, uncle navy)
    Do you know what difficulties there would be to my enlistment? Would I be accepted in another branch (airforce or coast guard) if my prior drop-out from the Navy is prejudicial?
    Thanks for the help….

  53. NCCM(ret) says:

    jm,

    If you have an RE-4 discharge code listed on your DD-214 for the reasons you mention, you are not eligible. Otherwise, seek out an officer recruiter.

  54. jm says:

    Thanks Mike,

    Since I am currently overseas, I left all not essential paperwork locked in a storage unit back in the states, my DD-214 included. Do you know of any way for me to request my code through the internet or is there a phone number I can call?
    Also, I want to use my experience living in China to show that I have gained knowledge useful to US Navy intelligence, but I am concerned it will actually effect my ability to have a security clearance. I have never been in trouble with the law, have made no choices that the Navy should consider un-moral, but as a philosophy student studied under and became the favorite student (some would say pet project) of a well-known Marxist expert and China expert, who was under pressure for his politics when in America and probably under surveillance in some manner for politics, and have now been living in this supposedly Communist country for almost 3 years. I am not a Marxist and have always made that very clear, both to my Professor and any other interested party. Will this disqualify me?

  55. NCCM(ret) says:

    jm,

    Your recruiter can have the MEPS find your RE-code – the liaison at MEPS has access to the data base and can retrieve it in a matter of minutes.

    How your experience in China will affect your commission, if at all, can be answered by your recruiter. If you still live in China, contact the local US Embassy for officer recruiter contact or use the link to Navy Recruiting District Los Angeles from the District link in the sidebar as NRD LA would control that area.

  56. Lave says:

    I turned 35 this past July but I did do 3.5 yrs in the navy. I got out with a Re4 due to homosexual admission and my discharge is being reevaluated with the dadt policy repeal. In addition last yr I was charged with simple assult.Can I reenlist or is it too late for me?

  57. Dan says:

    i have been considering joining the navy, but was a little worried about how long the current dep is about. I am very eager to join but was disappointed when i found out it could take a full calendar year.

  58. NCCM(ret) says:

    Lave,

    It depends on how long you have been out – you now must meet the same reenlistment criteria as any other RE-1 discharged Sailor. http://www.navycs.com/blogs/2011/09/08/discharged-under-dadt

  59. NCCM(ret) says:

    Dan,

    According to the Navy Recruiting Public Affairs Office, the current average wait time in DEP is 187 days.

  60. Lave says:

    NCCM,
    Thank you for the quick response. I got out of the Navy in Jan of 98.

  61. Gab says:

    Hello,

    I am interested in joining the Navy, but I have asthma. Is this a problem?

  62. jarvis g says:

    Ive had problems with the asvab. i scored a 25 on my first test, studied for two months and my recruiter told me i increased by 20 points on my second asvab. so i had to take an confirmation test. i feel like i did better on my second test than my confirmation test. i ended up with a 46 asvab score.what score did they taken my second asvab or my confirmation test? anyways ive been waiting 15 days since the “fiscal” year (oct 1) to go down to meps and pick a job. all my paper work is filled out i think its the navy appilcation. but are they going to accept me with a 46? it feels like they are avoiding me. i dont understand why my recruiter gave me the appilcation to fill out if the navy isnt accepting me with a 46. am i waisting my time. plz advice any help with me geeting into the navy…

  63. NCCM(ret) says:

    Gab,

    Having asthma during the last three years is disqualifying; otherwise, a waiver may be possible.

  64. NCCM(ret) says:

    Jarvis,

    They would not have used the confirmation test results, the 46 would have been from your second production test. Currently, from what I am hearing, a minimum of a 50QT is what local districts are requiring – I suggest you go see your recruiter to confirm.

  65. Spenny says:

    My son was ready to attend MEPS in Raleigh, NC tomorrow and he was told that there is a freeze on enrollment. Maybe he can go in 1-2 weeks but concerned it could take longer. Can somebody shed some light on this.

  66. NCCM(ret) says:

    Spenny,

    The recruiter should be more detailed, such as, was there an ASVAB minimum applied, does he need a certain type of waiver that they have placed a local policy hold on, etc.

  67. Spenny says:

    Thanks NCCM! Not sure but I guess I could ask the recruiter for more details. My son wants me to be involved but at the same time he does not. I have to get this info second hand from my son. He is 18 and I have to respect him on that. He scored a 69 on the ASVAB and does not have any waiver issues. Maybe I will go with my son to the recruiter and ask for details. Thanks again.

  68. joshua says:

    when i was a teen i was caught a few times with alcohol, i was caught selling pot…did probation and this was ten years ago…all misdameanors. Since then i have been on my best behavior and just want to join the services and make myself and my country proud of me. I am 28 and in great shape have a highschool diploma can i join?

  69. NCCM(ret) says:

    Joshua,

    In the post it talks about waivers for police involvement – follow that link and compare your charges to the waiver matrix.

  70. Matt says:

    hi there…i just recently got a DWI i was supposed to go to albany for MEPS but was waiting for my guages to close the night before i could tell my AF reserve recruiter they closed i was at a party..i went to move my car to avoid a ticket and getting towed. after i did i got out to a pee in the woods and got 3 tickets 1 is a fine 2 are misdemenors.. the fine is having an open container and 1 is a DWI…are my dreams of joining over? ive never been arrested never been convicted this was a first time offense i live in NY and ill be crushed if i cant join…i heard the recruiter can go to court with me but i feel thats unlikely the cop let me off easy i suppose cause he didnt throw me in jail or take my license at the time of arrest i was very cooperative?? advice anyone!?

  71. NCCM(ret) says:

    Matt,

    You are not eligible for at least one year after your arrest for DUI. That said, I am not sure if the Air Force is considering any waivers for that incident. The recruiter IS NOT allowed to go to court with you or have any input whatsoever as to the outcome/disposition.

  72. Spenny says:

    Dear NCCM,
    The freeze on new enlistment has been lifted and my son is going for MEPS tomorrow in Raleigh. I never did talk to the recruiter but i think it had something to do with wanting more reserve recruits?? Do you think the budget cuts had anything to do with? Anyways, Im very proud of my son for his choice on joining the Navy. He has 4 years in NJROTC and is proud of his country. Fair winds and following seas.

  73. NCCM(ret) says:

    Spenny,

    Haven’t heard about any freeze on recruiting, actually I heard the opposite as they have 47% of fiscal year billets still to fill, but that is great news, congrats!

    http://www.navycs.com/blogs/2011/10/06/fy-2011-a-record-setting-year

  74. Spenny says:

    NCCM,
    Thank you for the post and the link. I see that you have alot of new recruits that scored well in the ASVAB. My son with 4 years in NJROTC took the ASVAB last minute and scored a 69. Im baffled that he didn’t prepare for the test cause I think he could of scored higher. With his JROTC credits from HS he enlisted as an E-3 which is great. And, he chose Information Sytems Tech which requires high security. also great. There was another position he wanted with higher clearance BUT his ASVAB was not high enough. Anyways, Im so proud of him.

  75. NCCM(ret) says:

    Spenny,

    That is outstanding, and IT is a great job! I too was in NJROTC during HS – loved it.

  76. Spenny says:

    NCCM,
    Thanks again for the comments.

  77. tiffany says:

    hello,

    i am a 28 year old woman with 118 college credits looking to enlist in the navy. i also have one child currently living overseas with her non-American father and,if i were accepted in the navy, this would be a long-term arrangement. will this be a problem? will i need a waiver? and will my college credits be taken into consideration for base pay?

    thanks for the help

  78. NCCM(ret) says:

    Tiffany,

    To enlist into the active component as a single person, (male or female), with a child, must relinquish physical custody of the child by court order. Absent a court order, a child support order awarded by the state that the child resides in may be used to determine eligibility for enlistment – you must have the documentation even if the child resides outside the country The court order or child support order (with appropriate official signature) is required prior to processing for enlistment. You also need to be advised that if you choose to transfer physical custody of your child, your enlistment processing can not begin until 90 days has elapsed from the date of the custody transfer and that you may not retain, nor have your child reside with you during the term of the first enlistment.

    You may, however, be eligible for the Navy Reserve as things are.

  79. Debbie says:

    I have 8 years prior service in the Navy Reserves. I am 47 years old. Would I be eligible to reinlist either Reserves or active duty Navy? I am an RN in the civilian world.

  80. NCCM(ret) says:

    Debbie,

    RNs (4 year degree) are a priority right now – I know the Reserve is doing age waivers for otherwise qualified nurses to up to 45 years of age – your prior Reserve service should put you well in the window for the Reserve.

  81. keesha says:

    Hi, I’m looking to join the navy when I turn 23 currently Im 21 and pregnant with twins… furthermore I’m unmarried. Does this disqualify me for enlistment?

  82. NCCM(ret) says:

    Keesha,

    You would be eligible for a waiver to enter the Navy Reserve, but you would be ineligible for active duty. Here is everything you may want to know and more about dependency waivers – http://www.navycs.com/blogs/2011/01/07/navy-dependency-waiver

  83. keesha says:

    May I ask why am I ineligible for active duty? Or is there anything I can do once I become reserve to become active duty?

  84. NCCM(ret) says:

    Keesha,

    Single parents are not allowed to join active duty. Joining the Reserve does not change that.

  85. Jose valencia says:

    I have two dui case and currently on probation for the second i still gota finish my classes would i be able to join the navy reserves?

  86. NCCM(ret) says:

    Jose,

    Currently, there is a national moratorium on any waivers that would require approval by the Commander, Navy Recruiting Command. Having two DUIs requires such a waiver, so you would not be allowed to process at this time. If that current policy was not in place, you would have to have your probation, as well as any other conditions placed on you by the court, completed. You would also need to complete your education – by attaining a Tier I credential.

  87. Patrisha says:

    So I was convicted of a Petty Theft Misdemeanor, my probation is a year and a half, from what I understand from your chart it means I have to apply for a waiver. I’m finishing up my degree this year, and I suppose my real question is 1. If I can even apply to become an Officer with this?

  88. NCCM(ret) says:

    Patrisha,

    A petty theft could receive waiver consideration for an officer program just as it could for an enlisted program. One question about your case would be why you received a year and a half probation for a petty theft charge; usually, any probation that is more than a year is as a result of a felony charge.

  89. Patrisha says:

    From what I understand, petty theft charges can come in either misdemeanor or infraction forms. My case is on the border, but my lawyer tells me that its going to come out as a misdemeanor with a year and a half. From what I’ve seen individuals that have Felony charges serve about 5 probation years don’t they? I’m not sure about this though, so don’t quote me…

    My second question is one must wait until their probation period is over in order to apply for the waiver, there is no getting around this correct?

    Lastly, sorry for all of the questions, hypothetically when someone is accepted into the Navy, when the powers that be are doing promotions, do they look into your criminal history as well? I’m assuming that they would, but I figured I should throw it out there anyways.

    Thanks so much

  90. Mohira says:

    I had already passed by physical for the navy but have been waiting for the three dependnt waiver now for two weeks. I was informed that it usually takes about 2 to 3 working days but it now been two weeks. I’m now waiting for my waiver to get approved and they also say I should also be prepared to get a financial interview. I have already asked my recruiter about the delay, I was told to be patient and wait for their phone call. I couldn’t get interviewed the same day as my physical because no one was avail in TN at the time because of the pacific time difference HI. How long does it usually take to wait for these approvals? and what about the financial questions what type of questions will they ask?

  91. NCCM(ret) says:

    Mohira,

    Nobody from TN will be calling you. The local command will do the interview, and based on that interview, they will make a recommendation to the approval authority in TN (Commander, Navy Recruiting Command).

    If your recruiter is having you standby for a phone call, then your package may not have left NRD LA yet.

    Waivers that go to TN for approval take more than 2-3 days for approval, but shouldn’t take more than 3 weeks. Your recruiter should be able to find out who’s desk your package is on.

  92. Mohira says:

    Thank you for the swift reply. I know that it is ridiculous to have to wait for phone call that I don’t even know what day they’ll call. But twice I had asked and the same answer given that someone in TN was going to call for the interview. Thanks for the info, I’ll ask her again if she actually would know the whereabouts of my package and see if I’ll get a different answer. Thanks again.

  93. Bill says:

    Masterchief, I served honorably from 92-96. Am currently 38 yrs young and was considering my options. From a prior post, am I to understand my 4 years active put me at 34? In addition, I left as an E-5…. what are my chances of regaining rate?

  94. NCCM(ret) says:

    Bill,

    Combined with the fact that you have been out for 15 years and that the economy has precipitated some of the highest retention rates ever seen, you won’t find an active duty Enlisted Community Manager that would allow you to reenlist – Sailors that are out for a day can’t get back in unless they are Divers/EOD/SEAL.

  95. Jonny says:

    Will a completed pc 1000 program be eligible for a waiver. never put on probation. Charges were dismissed

  96. NCCM(ret) says:

    Jonny,

    Because you had to complete a program required by the court, in the eyes of the military, you are guilty of the charge you were arrested.

    You will find more information on this page – http://www.navycs.com/blogs/2010/05/23/moral-waivers-for-enlistment and this page – http://www.navycs.com/blogs/2010/10/05/navy-drug-waivers

  97. Nick H. says:

    Hello Chief,
    I am Prior Service Air Force,i have been out of the service for 5 yrs now. Recently i’ve been considering joining the NAVY to become a Diver, my pay grade in the AF was E-4, i am 28 yrs old male with no children, My question to you is, if i join the Navy can i go Active duty or is Reserves my only option, and will i keep my stripes ? I spoke to an Army recruiter recently and he said my only option was reserves, I dont want to go reserves !! if you have any tips or pointers it would be greatly appriciated.

  98. NCCM(ret) says:

    Nick,

    You need to track down a Navy recruiter because Navy Diver may be one of the only programs (perhaps SB, SO, and AIRR, too) prior service can reenter active duty with. Whether you lose your pay grade is up to the Enlisted Community Manager, but I think chances are real good that you will lose it unless you were a diver in the Air Force.

  99. Brian says:

    Hey master chief how long does it take for a record transferral from one meps to another my recruiter had me to sign a document tuesday before last and still hadnt heard anything

  100. NCCM(ret) says:

    Brian,

    The records actually get mailed. So, if the recruiter had you sign the request on a Tuesday, it wouldn’t be until Wednesday that the liaison would deliver the request to your current MEPS – your current MEPS would then make a request to the MEPS that has your records. That MEPS would then package everything up and mail it to your current MEPS.

    It isn’t unusual for this process to take more than a week.

  101. Brian says:

    Oh really well its been about two weeks and my recruiter still didnt hear from them yet what should I do

  102. NCCM(ret) says:

    Brian,

    Your recruiter should be able to contact the MEPS to have them track it down – the package should have had a tracking number applied when the MEPS mailed it.

  103. Nikki says:

    I was born premature and I had to have a blood tranfusion back in the day. I am fine now 28 yrs old. Also, I was diagnosied with ADD growing up I was on Ritlan for grade school as well as middle school. But,I stop taking it in high school and haven’t been on anything in over 15 yrs. WOuld this disqualify me from the navy?
    Also, I want to go in as a Hospital corspman would it be possible to work in a pediatric hospital?

  104. NCCM(ret) says:

    Nikki,

    You should ask your medical questions to NavyDoc on the medical waiver page here – http://www.navycs.com/blogs/2009/09/17/navy-recruiting-medical-waiver-process

    He will want to know more specifics about the transfusion.

  105. Brian says:

    Hey master this brian again about the record transferral well I called my recruiter today and he told me that he contacted meps and they told him that the transferral was not complete does that mean they were lost possibly?

  106. NCCM(ret) says:

    Brian,

    No. It more than likely means that the MEPS may have taken more time to process it to be mailed. Your recruiter can check (via the Navy Liaison so it may take a day to check) to ensure the original MEPS has in fact mailed it.

  107. Brian says:

    Hey master chief my recruiter told me I cannot test anymore cuz I took the asvab test five times already and didnt get a qualifying score and he also said thats the most I can test for the military so I guess that mean im done for the military if I cant test again right master chief the last time I took it was in april of 2009 and that was the fifth but he told me im not able to take it anymore because five times is the limit is that true?

  108. NCCM(ret) says:

    Brian,

    There is no limit to the times you can retake the ASVAB test before you enlist, but if your office pretesting is not showing any improvement, then I would think you wouldn’t want to waste the recruiter’s time.

    - try another recruiter.

  109. oldnav says:

    NCCM,
    I receive an Honorable Discharge, Pattern Of Misconduct (DUI) with an RE-4. I was 3 years into a 6 year reenlistment with an SRB. Am I required to pay back the 1st SRB payment I received when I reenlisted?

  110. NCCM(ret) says:

    Oldnav,

    You shouldn’t have to, that is one reason why they break up the payments.

Leave a Reply

Navy Recruiting Blog about the enlistment process and benefits of service. This is NOT an official Navy web site. The opinions expressed are my own, and may not be in-line with Big Navy.
©2004-2012 Navy CyberSpace Blog
- Privacy Policy