How to Sign Up for the Navy
Step 1: Meet the Eligibility Criteria
Before signing up for the Navy, you must meet the eligibility criteria. To be eligible, you must:
• Be a U.S. citizen
• Be between the ages of 17 and 39 (with some exceptions for older or younger applicants)
• Be a high school graduate or have a General Equivalency Diploma (GED)
• Meet physical, mental, and moral standards
• Pass a physical exam
Step 2: Choose a Career Path
The Navy has various career paths to choose from, including:
- Enlisted : Join the ranks as an enlisted sailor, where you’ll serve in a specific job rating (such as aviation mechanic, electronic technician, or chef)
- Officer : Commission as an officer through Officer Candidate School (OCS) or a military academy
- Seaman : Join as a seaman recruit, which is the entry-level enlisted rating
Step 3: Apply Online
To apply, you’ll need to create an account on the Navy’s official website:
- Go to www.navy.com and click on "Join the Navy"
- Fill out the online application, which will ask for personal information, education, and career preferences
- Take the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test online or in-person
- Upload your transcript and any relevant certifications or licenses
Step 4: Take the ASVAB Test
The ASVAB test is a standardized exam that measures your aptitude in various subjects, such as mathematics, science, and language. The test is divided into nine subtests, and your scores will determine which Navy ratings you’re eligible for.
Step 5: Pass the Physical Exam
You’ll need to pass a physical exam to ensure you meet the Navy’s physical fitness standards. The exam includes:
- Vision test
- Hearing test
- Body mass index (BMI) calculation
- Blood pressure check
- Dental examination
- Urinalysis
Step 6: Meet with a Recruiter
After completing the online application and taking the ASVAB test, you’ll be scheduled to meet with a Navy recruiter. The recruiter will:
- Review your application and ASVAB scores
- Discuss your career options and available ratings
- Answer any questions you may have
- Discuss the enlistment contract and terms, including service commitment and education benefits
Step 7: Take the Physical Screening Test (PST)
Before boot camp, you’ll need to pass the PST, which includes:
- 500-yard swim in 12 minutes or less
- 42.6 push-ups in 2 minutes or less
- 53.4 sit-ups in 2 minutes or less
- 1.5-mile run in 12:30 minutes or less
- Body fat percentage of 21% or less for men, and 24% or less for women
Step 8: Complete Basic Training (Boot Camp)
After enlisting, you’ll attend boot camp, where you’ll:
- Learn Navy customs and traditions
- Develop basic naval skills
- Meet other new sailors
- Start your training as a seaman recruit
Additional Tips and Resources
• Get a waiver if you have any criminal convictions, tattoos, or other disqualifying factors
• Bring documents such as birth certificate, Social Security card, and DD Form 214 (if applicable)
• Attend a Navy event or visit a recruiting station to get a sense of Navy life
• Contact a recruiter with any questions or concerns
Navy Enrollment Process Timeline
Here is a general timeline for the Navy enrollment process:
Step | Timeline |
---|---|
Online Application | 1-3 days |
ASVAB Test | 1-3 days |
Physical Exam | 1-3 days |
Meeting with Recruiter | 1-2 weeks |
Enlistment Contract | 1-2 weeks |
PST | 1-2 weeks |
Boot Camp | 8 weeks |
Remember to stay focused, persistent, and committed to your goal of joining the Navy. By following these steps and staying informed, you’ll be well on your way to a successful and fulfilling naval career.