Can i join the military at 55 years old
Can you join the army at 50...
Requirements to join the U.S. military
Contact a military recruiter
Citizenship and residency
U.S. citizens and some non-citizens can join the military.
Can i join the military at 45 years old
If you are not a U.S. citizen, you must:
- Have a U.S. Permanent Resident Card (Green Card)
- Speak, read, and write English fluently
You cannot join the military to enter the U.S. or to get a visa.
Age limits
Each branch of the military has age limits to enlist in active duty:
- Air Force: 17 - 42
- Army: 17 - 35
- Coast Guard: 17 - 41
- Marine Corps: 17 - 28
- Navy: 17 - 41
- Space Force: 17 - 42
The age limits are different if you join as an officer or join the Guard or Reserve.
Education and testing requirements
ASVAB testing
Everyone who wants to enlist in the military must take the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB).
Each branch sets its own minimum score to join. Your score will help decide which jobs you can do after you enlist.
Use ASVAB online resources to:
- Find out where to take