What’s the Height Requirement for the Military?
The height requirement for the military varies depending on the branch of service and the specific job or position. While there is no one-size-fits-all answer, we’ll break down the height requirements for each branch and highlight the key points to consider.
What is the General Height Requirement for the Military?
The general height requirement for the military is typically between 5’2" and 6’8" (157 cm to 203 cm) for men and 4’10" and 6’8" (147 cm to 203 cm) for women. However, some positions may have more stringent height requirements.
Height Requirements by Branch
Here’s a breakdown of the height requirements for each branch of the military:
- Army: The Army has a height requirement of 5’2" to 6’8" (157 cm to 203 cm) for men and 4’10" to 6’8" (147 cm to 203 cm) for women.
- Navy: The Navy has a height requirement of 5’1" to 6’7" (155 cm to 201 cm) for men and 4’9" to 6’7" (145 cm to 201 cm) for women.
- Air Force: The Air Force has a height requirement of 5’2" to 6’7" (157 cm to 201 cm) for men and 4’10" to 6’7" (147 cm to 201 cm) for women.
- Marine Corps: The Marine Corps has a height requirement of 5’2" to 6’6" (157 cm to 198 cm) for men and 4’10" to 6’6" (147 cm to 198 cm) for women.
- Coast Guard: The Coast Guard has a height requirement of 5’1" to 6’6" (155 cm to 198 cm) for men and 4’9" to 6’6" (145 cm to 198 cm) for women.
Height Requirements by Job or Position
Some positions within the military may have more stringent height requirements. For example:
- Pilots: Pilots must be at least 5’2" (157 cm) tall for the Air Force and at least 5’1" (155 cm) tall for the Navy.
- Special Forces: Special Forces operators, such as Green Berets, must be at least 5’5" (165 cm) tall for the Army.
- Seals: Navy SEALs must be at least 5’7" (170 cm) tall.
- Rangers: Army Rangers must be at least 5’8" (173 cm) tall.
What Happens if You’re Below the Height Requirement?
If you’re below the height requirement, you may still be eligible for service. However, you’ll need to meet certain physical fitness standards and undergo additional testing to determine your suitability for service.
- Waivers: Some branches may grant waivers for individuals who are below the height requirement. However, these waivers are typically only granted for specific positions or jobs.
- Additional Testing: You may be required to undergo additional testing, such as a body mass index (BMI) test, to determine your suitability for service.
Conclusion
The height requirement for the military varies depending on the branch of service and the specific job or position. While there is no one-size-fits-all answer, understanding the height requirements can help you determine your eligibility for service. Remember to check with each branch’s specific requirements and to consult with a recruiter or medical professional if you have any questions or concerns.
Table: Height Requirements by Branch
| Branch | Men’s Height Requirement | Women’s Height Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Army | 5’2" to 6’8" (157 cm to 203 cm) | 4’10" to 6’8" (147 cm to 203 cm) |
| Navy | 5’1" to 6’7" (155 cm to 201 cm) | 4’9" to 6’7" (145 cm to 201 cm) |
| Air Force | 5’2" to 6’7" (157 cm to 201 cm) | 4’10" to 6’7" (147 cm to 201 cm) |
| Marine Corps | 5’2" to 6’6" (157 cm to 198 cm) | 4’10" to 6’6" (147 cm to 198 cm) |
| Coast Guard | 5’1" to 6’6" (155 cm to 198 cm) | 4’9" to 6’6" (145 cm to 198 cm) |
Key Takeaways
- The height requirement for the military varies depending on the branch of service and the specific job or position.
- The general height requirement is typically between 5’2" and 6’8" (157 cm to 203 cm) for men and 4’10" and 6’8" (147 cm to 203 cm) for women.
- Some positions may have more stringent height requirements.
- Waivers may be granted for individuals who are below the height requirement.
- Additional testing may be required to determine suitability for service.
