How to Join the United States Military
The realistic, step-by-step process for enlistment in the United States armed forces — from first application to your first day of basic training.
- ▸6 main stages
- ▸~12 weeks application to training
- ▸Minimum age: 17 years
- ▸Starting pay: USD 2,017/month
The application process at a glance
Joining the United States military takes approximately 12 weeks from initial application to starting basic training. The process has 6 main stages. Be patient — bureaucratic delays at any stage are normal.
Step-by-step recruitment stages
- Step 1: Contact recruiter / submit application
- Step 2: ASVAB (Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery)
- Step 3: MEPS — medical, background, job selection
- Step 4: Sign enlistment contract (DEP — Delayed Entry Program)
- Step 5: Ship date assignment
- Step 6: Report to Basic Combat Training
Age, citizenship, and basic qualifications
You must be at least 17 years old to enlist (and no older than 42). U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents (Green Card holders) eligible. MAVNI program for specialty skills currently suspended. Officers must be U.S. citizens. Medical and physical fitness standards apply at the screening stage.
What happens after you sign
After contract signing, you are scheduled for basic training (approximately 10 weeks). Initial pay starts at roughly USD 2,017/month as a E-1 (under 4 months service). Your specific MOS / trade / specialty determines follow-on training duration and assignments.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to join the United States military?
Typically 12 weeks from application to starting basic training, though delays are common.
Do I need United States citizenship to join?
Not necessarily. U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents (Green Card holders) eligible. MAVNI program for specialty skills currently suspended. Officers must be U.S. citizens.
What test do I have to pass to enlist?
Each country uses different aptitude testing — the recruiter's office or career center will administer it. See specific guidance per branch.
- todaysmilitary.com joining process; goarmy.com
- Army Regulation 601-210 (April 2026); goarmy.com/how-to-join/requirements
- DFAS 2025 Basic Pay: Enlisted (dfas.mil)
- goarmy.com requirements; USCIS military naturalization