General enlisted requirements · Last verified July 28, 2026
Army enlistment eligibility checklist.
Review the broad requirements that commonly affect enlisted applicants, identify questions to raise early, and organize the records you may need. Only official Army processing can determine your eligibility.
Ten areas to review
Prepare for an honest recruiter conversation.
Selecting an answer is available in the private web-app tab. This public guide explains what each area covers.
Age
The current Army requirements page lists ages 17 through 42 for enlisted applicants. Age rules can differ for certain paths and prior-service applicants.
If this may be an issue: Applicants outside the published range should ask a recruiter whether an age waiver or another path may apply.
Citizenship or permanent residency
Enlisted applicants generally must be a U.S. citizen or a permanent resident with a valid Green Card. Permanent residents must meet applicable English-language requirements.
If this may be an issue: A recruiter must confirm whether your specific immigration status and documents qualify. Military service cannot be used to enter the United States or obtain a visa.
Education
Enlisted applicants generally need a high-school diploma or recognized equivalent. Opportunities can be more limited for applicants with an equivalency credential.
If this may be an issue: Ask a recruiter to review your diploma, equivalency credential, home-school record, college credits, or other education documents.
ASVAB entrance test
Every enlisted applicant takes the ASVAB. The current Army page lists an AFQT score of at least 31 for standard enlistment, while some applicants may qualify for a preparatory-course option or waiver review.
If this may be an issue: Your most recent official score, education tier, and current Army programs determine what options may be available.
Medical qualification
Applicants complete medical prescreening and a MEPS examination. Prior diagnoses, treatment, medication, surgery, behavioral-health care, vision, hearing, and other history must be disclosed accurately.
If this may be an issue: A condition does not automatically predict the outcome. MEPS may request records or consultations, and the Army decides waiver requests case by case.
Height, weight, and physical readiness
Applicants must meet current height, weight, body-composition, and general physical standards. The Army may offer a preparatory fitness track to some applicants who do not initially meet body-composition requirements.
If this may be an issue: Use official measurement procedures and ask a recruiter about current standards or preparatory-program availability.
Legal and conduct history
Applicants complete background screening and must disclose arrests, charges, convictions, probation, parole, and other requested conduct history. Some matters can be reviewed for a waiver; others cannot.
If this may be an issue: Do not guess or omit information. Bring court or disposition records when requested and let qualified Army personnel determine whether review is possible.
Drug and alcohol screening
Applicants must complete drug and alcohol screening and answer substance-use questions accurately. A failed screening, current dependence, or certain trafficking and distribution offenses can prevent enlistment.
If this may be an issue: Discuss any history honestly with a recruiter before MEPS. This checklist cannot determine whether a waiver or waiting period applies.
Tattoo and appearance rules
Army policy permits many tattoos but restricts certain locations, sizes, and content. Extremist, racist, sexist, or otherwise indecent tattoos are not permitted.
If this may be an issue: Have a recruiter review any tattoo you are unsure about under the current appearance policy.
Identity and background documentation
Applicants provide identity, citizenship or residency, education, medical, and other requested records and complete fingerprinting and a Pre-Enlistment Interview.
If this may be an issue: Missing or inconsistent records can delay processing. Ask your recruiter for the current personalized document list.
Official references
Confirm the current rules.
Last verified July 28, 2026.
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