Can I go to the army with a felony?
What are the eligibility criteria for the US Army?
To join the United States Army, you must meet certain eligibility criteria, which includes being a U.S. citizen, being between the ages of 17 and 35, and meeting physical and mental standards. However, if you have a felony conviction on your record, it can make it more difficult or even impossible to join the army.
The enlistment process
The enlistment process for the US Army typically involves several steps:
- Step 1: Meet the Basic Eligibility Requirements
- Be a U.S. citizen
- Be between the ages of 17 and 35
- Have a high school diploma or equivalent
- Pass a physical fitness test (PFT)
- Meet height and weight standards
- Step 2: Take the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) Test
- This test measures your aptitude in various subjects such as mathematics, science, and English
- Step 3: Pass a Background Check
- This includes a criminal background check, which will check for any felony convictions on your record
- Step 4: Medical Exam
- A doctor will evaluate your overall health and fitness for military service
Can you go to the army with a felony?
In most cases, a felony conviction can disqualify you from joining the army. According to the United States Army Enlistment Regulations, a felony conviction is considered a bar to enlistment. bold: A felony conviction will almost always result in an administrative denial of your enlistment application.
What is considered a felony?
A felony is typically considered a serious crime punishable by more than one year in prison. This includes:
- Crimes involving violence or serious physical harm
- Homicide
- Aggravated assault
- Robbery
- Crimes involving illegal drugs
- Trafficking or distributing controlled substances
- Possession with intent to distribute
- Other serious crimes
- Embezzlement
- Fraud
- Sexual offenses
Exemptions and Waivers
In some cases, an individual with a felony conviction may be able to obtain a waiver or exemption to join the army. These exceptions are typically considered on a case-by-case basis and are usually reserved for individuals who have served time, have demonstrated rehabilitation, and have a compelling reason to join the military.
Types of waivers
The military offers several types of waivers, including:
- Moral Waiver
- This type of waiver is granted when the individual has demonstrated rehabilitation and can demonstrate that their enlistment will not harm unit morale or cohesion.
- Administrative Waiver
- This type of waiver is granted when the individual has not yet completed their sentence and the commander determines that granting a waiver would be in the best interest of the army.
How to obtain a waiver
To obtain a waiver, an individual with a felony conviction will typically need to:
- Meet with an Enlistment Recruiter
- Discuss your qualifications and the circumstances surrounding your felony conviction
- Prepare a Waiver Packet
- Gather documents supporting your rehabilitation and demonstration of good conduct
- Meet with a Board
- A panel of officials will review your packet and make a determination regarding the waiver
Table: Waiver Considerations
| Criminal Activity | Waiver Consideration |
|---|---|
| Violence or serious physical harm | Typically denied |
| Drug-related offenses | Waiver possible, depending on circumstances |
| White-collar crimes | Waiver possible, depending on circumstances |
| Sexual offenses | Typically denied |
Conclusion
While it is generally not possible to join the army with a felony conviction, there are some exceptions. An individual with a felony conviction may be able to obtain a waiver or exemption, but this is typically considered on a case-by-case basis. To join the army with a felony conviction, an individual must meet with an enlistment recruiter, prepare a waiver packet, and meet with a board. Even with a waiver, it’s important to note that an individual’s felony conviction will be carefully reviewed and may affect their career advancement opportunities and assignments.
