Can You Join the Military after Being Discharged?
Serving in the military can be a life-changing experience, offering opportunities for personal growth, education, and career development. However, sometimes service members are discharged from the military, often due to various factors such as reaching the end of their term, violating military rules, or medically unfitting. But does that mean they are forever ineligible to join the military? No, it doesn’t necessarily mean that.
The Answer to the Question
In fact, there are several routes that discharged military personnel can take to rejoin the military. While the possibility of rejoining depends on the circumstances of the discharge and individual circumstances, some options are more feasible than others.
Types of Discharge and Their Effect on Military Service
Here are some common types of discharge and their impact on future military service:
HONORABLE DISCHARGE:
A clean record – re-joining the military is not restricted
Can serve in any military branch
GENERAL (UNDER HONORABLE) DISCHARGE:
*Characterized by serious misconduct but not a major offense – may face additional scrutiny and requirements to rejoin
OTHER THAN HONORABLE (OTH) DISCHARGE:
*Due to misconduct or dereliction of duty – typically, a rehabilitation program or improvement in service record required to re-join
Dishonorable DISCHARGE:
*Serious offenses or felonies committed while serving – usually prohibited from re-enlisting; some cases may be cleared with rehabilitation
Punitive Discharge (BMC) DISCHARGE:
*Based on military rule violations, usually a major offense – may be ineligible for military service
Medical DISCHARGE:
*Medical fitness issues may limit future service; specific requirements or conditions may prohibit re-joining
Requirements for Joining the Military after a Discharge
Before considering re-joining the military, service members must:
- Wait: Typically 90 days (minimum) have passed since discharge
- Get a Review of Their File: Ensure records are accurate and up-to-date
- Meet Basic Requirements: Again, fulfill eligibility criteria such as age, citizenship, education, and physical/mental health standards
- Get a Doctor’s Release: Obtain clearance from a doctor, specifying medical readiness
- Update Documents: Keep personal and official documents in order
Branch-specific Re-Enlistment Policies
Different military branches have distinct re-enlistment policies, including additional requirements and procedures. These policies can change, but here is a general summary of the current landscape:
| Branch | Restrictions/Guidelines |
|---|---|
| Army | Certain discharges (including OTH and BMC) may be restricted; wait 12-24 months after discharge before reapplying |
| Navy | Dismissed or OTH discharged personnel typically cannot reenlist; waiver process is available in specific cases |
| Air Force | Certain types of discharge may require approval from a higher authority (e.g., Air Force Review Board); 18-24 month waiting period after discharge |
| Marine Corps | Usually, restrictive discharge types are not accepted for reenlistment; individual review and board approval may be required; 24-month waiting period |
Tips and Considerations for Joining the Military after a Discharge
- Know Your Reason: Understand why you were discharged and whether your circumstances can be addressed to improve your chances of re-joining
- Update Records: Ensure your personal documents and service records are current and accurate
- Consult a Veterans’ Advocacy Organization: Seek expert guidance from organizations like Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) or Disabled American Veterans (DAV) to navigate the process and understand the options available to you
- Understand Branch Policies: Research and comprehend the specific guidelines and restrictions imposed by your desired branch of service
While joining the military after a discharge may come with extra hurdles, it is still possible for individuals to make a comeback and continue their service. With the right guidance, dedication, and preparation, ex-service members can explore their options, address any previous issues, and take a second shot at a successful military career.
